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School surprises custodian with car
Students and staff surpise beloved custodian with car
New Hope Elementary custodian Aaron Smith has been sweeping his way into the hearts of children, staff and parents for nearly two years, but the vehicle he drove to school caught the eye of a 9-year-old student.
“His car is held together by chains, bungee cords and duct tape,” explained Lola Beatty. “I think he needs a new car.”
Amanda Thompson, who is on the school’s PTO fundraising committee created a GoFundMe campaign and didn’t know what to expect.
“Our goal was $4,500 and now we’re up to almost $7,000 in 48 hours,” said Thompson. “It’s insane. The support from the community has been amazing!”
Thompson contacted a friend at Hubert Vester Chevrolet and the dealership offered to cover taxes, fees and the title on the car.
So as administrators, teachers, students, and parents gathered in a circle in the back parking lot, Mr. Smith was escorted to his vehicle where children chanted his name.
“It is unbelievable that this has been done,'' said Aarron Smith. “I would like to thank them all. I really feel appreciated.”
In addition, the school PTO presented Smith with a check in the amount of $3,834.33 to cover the first year of insurance, and any leftover money will go directly to him.