Carrie Justice

Dear Fellow Vermonter,

I think we can all agree that being a kid in elementary and middle school can sometimes be tough. But that’s also why we remember – so clearly – those educators and staff members who looked out for us and went the extra mile in what is a hugely impactful time.

Maybe for you it was a favorite teacher or the librarian. Maybe it was a food service provider, a coach, a principal, or a custodian. Someone who inspired you to learn and grow and get back up after getting knocked down. Someone who helped you feel safe and seen. Someone who helped make going to school a little brighter, a little easier, and a little more fun.

Born and raised in Vermont, Carrie Justice moved to Hinesburg with her husband in the 1980s. After losing her job of 25 years to foreign competition, Carrie heard that the Hinesburg Community School was looking for someone to run their custodial and facility services. Her husband told her, “I think you’d be great.” And he was right.

She got the job and ever since Carrie has been an essential part of the school’s community. While her day ends around 5:30pm, you will often find her offering up her free time to chaperone a school event or bake her famous cookies for a school dance. When you walk down the hallway with Carrie, you don’t get far before a student stops to give her a hug or a teacher waves.

In 2022, past and present students, teachers, parents, and principals came together to nominate her for Vermont Facilities Person of the Year – an honor she rightly received.

To Carrie, and everyone who shows up every day for our students, thank you for all that you do. You are our heroes and heroines.

Sincerely,