The orchestra gathered its instruments, ready for a special performance. Head custodian Ben Lazo walked into the room expecting to clean a “huge mess,” but instead, the orchestra played “Happy Birthday,” and his face lit up with joy.

The orchestra surprised Mr. Ben—known for his dedication to the school—with a special birthday performance. This heartfelt moment highlights the school’s strong sense of appreciation.

“It made me feel wonderful,” Ben said. “This shows me how much the kids really cared. There were a lot of them that wished me happy birthday and sang ‘Happy Birthday.’” 

Known for his helpful attitude and kindness, Mr. Ben’s interactions with students leave lasting impressions. For Sophomore Fernando Ramos said he helped during an orchestra concert.

“I was setting the tables up for the orchestra concert and he came up to me and said, ‘Hey, you want some elbow?’ I really appreciate it,” Ramos said. “We just both started working on setting up everything and that was helpful.”

Ben’s happiness was evident to everyone around him. He shared his joy with all the students who participated in the celebration.

“He was filled with a lot of joy after it, and he was very pleased,” Sophomore Jason Dang said. “Playing ‘Happy Birthday’ for somebody and seeing the excitement in their face, makes me happy.”

Mr. Ben said he often encounters kids who return to see him or run into him at the mall or the store. They recognize him and often hug him, greeting him with a friendly “Hey, How you doing, Ben?” These interactions mean a lot to the students, but also to himself.

“It makes me feel good because I have a good lasting impression on them,” Ben said.