It takes a village to keep a school running smoothly. An unsung hero of Jefferson is our head custodian, Mr. James Utter, who is better known as "J.R." While much of his duties happen behind the scenes, J.R. has become a happy presence to both students and staff alike. Whether he's tackling a cafeteria clean-up, live-trapping a squirrel in the library ceiling (true story), or simply putting a smile on a student's face, J.R. is genuinely and enthusiastically a part of the Jefferson community as an all-in team player.
J.R. has been a Warsaw Schools' employee for eleven years, serving at WCHS and Gateway before coming to Jefferson one year ago. He grew up in Warsaw and attended Warsaw schools. He was even a Jefferson "Trojan" back in the day! He has been married to his wife for thirty-six years, lives in Milford, and has two grown sons and three grandchildren.
Outside of school, J.R. and his wife share a passion for birds. He plays guitar and is learning banjo, dulcimer, and mandolin.
J.R. said, "I love my job, because I get to be involved with the teachers and students in projects, and I am able to at times work with students! My biggest vision I might have for Jefferson is to be able to maintain the family atmosphere that is already in place and for EVERYONE to feel welcomed as soon as they walk in the door!"
We are blessed to have J.R. at Jefferson!
(Photo provided.)