The Ector County Independent School District Board of Trustees introduced facilities director Gary Weatherford as the school district’s World Class Leader in Education for February at the Feb. 21 school board meeting. Weatherford joined ECISD in 1982 as a part-time employee. He went full-time in 1985, and his story exemplifies the ideal of a life-long learner. He began as a painter, moved to lead painter, and then to foreman – all the while working on his bachelor’s degree, which he ultimately earned. In his nomination form one school principal said, “Rain or shine Gary shows up! As a principal I truly appreciate his dedication and help. He has come to my campus to address emergencies after work hours on a Friday evening. He comes to clarify any questions he may have concerning work orders or to give suggestions. If our campus is in need he does everything within his power to address it. The district is truly blessed to have him.” As director of facilities he oversees about 90 maintenance workers and more than 200 custodians. They are responsible for covering some five million square feet of building space, and the grounds around those buildings – he is a busy man. He has been, and is, dedicated to ECISD and his actions point toward his love of education and our students and staff. From left: Superintendent of Schools Tom Crowe, Weatherford and school board president Teri Ervin.
