Putnam City North Janitor, Friend To Students, Greets Graduates One Final Time

One staff member at Putnam City North made a big impact on students.

As graduates walked across the stage to embark on their next chapter on Saturday, they were greeted by the man they said always goes above and beyond for them.

The graduation ceremony at PC North is unique this year. There's one extra hand to shake as graduates exit the stage.

"Love you Mr. Marvin!" said one student. "Marvin I'm going to miss you, stop it!" said another.

Marvin Reeves works at Putnam City North High School, but he isn't an administrator or even a teacher.

"I'm the daytime lead custodian," Marvin said.

Most importantly, he's a friend to the students.

"It motivates me every morning to get up and see the smiles on these kids' faces," Marvin said.

Students like graduating senior Chloe Miller felt his impact.

"He just makes everything brighter," she said. "Even if I'm having a bad day, he can always put a smile on my face."

Marvin makes it a point to meet every student at the school.

"I always go around telling the kids have a wonderful blessed day," Marvin said. "Talk to them every morning, hug them, let them know if you need something, I'm here for you."

Then at graduation, he reminds them one more time by greeting them on their final steps as a Panther.

"Hey, I told you I'm here for you!" he said to one student.

Offering final words of encouragement and even getting a few in return.

"Thank you for always making my day," a student told Marvin.

As the class of 2024 moves on, he's ready to welcome a new class of Panthers until it's their time to graduate.