Russell Turner is the October Laker Champion for Kids

Calloway County Middle School custodian Russell Turner has been named the October Laker Champion for Kids. The Laker Champion for Kids is awarded each month to a Laker staff member who goes above and beyond for students and colleagues.

Turner was nominated by numerous faculty and staff members at CCMS.

“I'm not sure I've met someone else who could match his tireless work ethic,” wrote CCMS teacher Sally Barnes. "The time he has committed to this school is immeasurable. He worked when he knew he would not be paid. He worked overtime shifts at the middle school only to continue his day giving more time to the high school. He has never complained, never shied away from a task, and never forgotten to smile to all those he encounters, even in the most daunting situations. CCMS has been blessed beyond measure to have someone who takes such pride in our space.”

Turner also works closely with CCMS assistant principal David Carmichael.

“He is an amazing guy,” says Carmichael. “Often, I’ve seen him come up on a weekend – unpaid – just to work on a few things that he wants to fix or make look better before the new week starts. He takes such pride in his work and is eager to help in any way he can. This summer, some of our current students were guiding the new 6th graders around the school at our Smooth Sailing event. When they got to his door, one said,‘This is Mr. Russell’s office. He’s our head custodian, one of the nicest and coolest guys here.’ This just goes to show the impact he makes in our building. We are so blessed to have him.”