Every day, Wilton High School students flow in and out of the building, with countless conversations taking place about the day-to-day stress of academics and extracurriculars: activities that often leave many students drained and anxious. However, no matter who you are or what you’re talking about, you can be sure that Rodnez Thoby will greet you with a genuine smile.
Since becoming a member of the Wilton Public Schools community in 2000, Thoby has held positions at almost all four schools: Miller Driscoll for twelve years, Cider Mill for eight years, and Wilton High School for the last five years. Originally hailing from Haiti, Thoby immigrated to the United States in 1995 and worked a host of different jobs before joining the district as a cherished custodian. No matter where he goes, though, Thoby always maintains a cheerful persona and radiates positivity.
Not only has Thoby become a pillar in the district, but his children have also gone through the Wilton Public Schools system. His youngest son, Wooder, currently works at Middlebrook and has a reputation similar to his father’s.
Thoby has had such a tremendous impact on all of the public schools in Wilton, and his efforts rarely go unnoticed. In collaboration with Wilton Loves, The Forum is highlighting Thoby as one of two nominees for this month’s Hidden Gems, a.k.a. members of the Wilton High School community and beyond, whose positive efforts may not always receive widespread recognition. Students and teachers alike shared their regard for Thoby’s constant enthusiasm for his job and the people of the high school. Let’s hear what they have to say:
Emma Roos, a current junior at WHS, appreciates how Thoby is “always there for everyone and always smiling, and giving high-fives to brighten up the day of everyone around him.”
Lara Paschalidis, a parent of children in the Wilton Public Schools system, expresses how “since my kids have been in high school, [I have] seen Rodnez speak to all of the kids, knowing all of them and always greeting them with a smile and a high five. He knows their names and genuinely cares for them by knowing what is going on in their lives.” She adds that he not only “greets the kids, but also the parents and staff. He is truly a gem for our students.”
It’s not just parents and students who treasure Thoby’s friendliness. Wilton High School head custodian Michael Criscuolo, one of Thoby’s coworkers, admires how he “is always cheerful and ready to help! He has such charisma and school spirit. He builds relationships with the students.”
As evident in the school’s opinion of him, Thoby’s presence always makes Wilton High School a better place. No matter if you see him in the cafeteria, the hallways, or anywhere else in the building, Rodnez Thoby is sure to put a smile on your face.
