Work Ethic in Action: Darrell Helton Takes Initiative

At Corbin High School, a great deal of what makes each day run smoothly happens before most people even notice it.

Every morning, Darrell Helton, head custodian at Corbin High School, is already at work. But his work ethic goes far beyond keeping the building clean and ready for students and staff.

Darrell makes it a priority to check in with the principals each morning, making sure they know he is available and asking if there is anything they need. When he sees someone putting out traffic cones in the morning, he doesn't simply walk by—he meets them at their car to offer a hand.

When students need help with their lockers, Darrell steps in. When something needs attention, he notices it. And when his team needs direction, he leads by example.

This is Work Ethic in action.

One of the indicators of Work Ethic in the Redhound Way is Takes Initiative—seeing what needs to be done, taking responsibility, and acting without waiting to be asked.

Darrell consistently does just that.

His initiative also extends beyond his individual responsibilities. He works collaboratively with the principals to maintain consistent communication and serves as a leader for his custodial team. His willingness to step in, lend a hand, and take ownership helps create a school environment where students and staff can focus on what matters most.

The impact of that work can be seen throughout Corbin High School—and felt by the people who walk through its doors every day.

Darrell reminds us that taking initiative isn't always about doing something big. Sometimes, it's simply noticing what needs to be done and choosing to help. That's Work Ethic. That's taking initiative.

And that's the Redhound Way.