Nate Hoover didn’t hesitate when asked why he wanted to return to Carroll County High School after graduating in 2025.
“I love cleaning and I wanted to come back to see my friends; my best friends,” Hoover said. “They love me too.”
At 18, Hoover is back in the building he knows so well, working part-time as a custodian. For him, the job is much more than a paycheck. It’s about helping people, staying busy, and being part of a community where he feels at home.
“I love helping people and I can try my best,” he said. “Helping people by cleaning up is my thing.”
Hoover first learned the routines of the job during his senior year while participating in a co-op placement with the custodial staff. Working alongside Misty Stephens and Amanda Wagers, he learned how to care for classrooms, offices, and common spaces. When the opportunity came up to return after graduation, he was excited.
“I was excited about coming back to the high school,” he said.
Stephens praised Nate for his work ethic, even though she said he is a bit of a perfectionist. “He likes what he does so when you like what you do naturally you do it the best that you can. He’s good about detail and he’s very coachable,” she added.
Each afternoon, Hoover follows a regular schedule. Hoover often works alongside Stephens, and when he finishes his assigned areas, he looks for ways to help her.
“After I get done with work, I like helping Misty,” he said. “Work keeps me busy.”
Those who work with him say he brings enthusiasm and heart to everything he does. Hoover returns the affection without hesitation.
“Misty is a good person,” he said. “I love Misty so much.”
The school day doesn’t always stay quiet, and Hoover doesn’t mind the activity.
“It’s a little fun when students are there,” he said.
Recently, when someone spilled white paint in the building, Hoover jumped in to clean it up. A group of volleyball players stopped to help, turning an unexpected mess into a moment of teamwork.
"Nate is very concerned about doing a good job,” said CCHS Principal Crystal Harris. “He comes in looking to do good work and is willing to work hard. He is very appreciated!"
When his shift ends, Hoover enjoys unwinding with food and friends. McDonald’s and Taco Bell are regular stops, but he also likes Mi Viejo and Hos Coffee, where he orders caramel drinks topped with whipped cream. At home, he plays video games like Roblox, Fortnite, and Call of Duty with friends, usually on his Xbox, though sometimes on his phone.
Looking ahead, Hoover has big dreams. He wants to learn to drive, visit California because “it’s so beautiful,” and someday see the beach. He lives in Ghent with his grandparents now, but hopes to have his own apartment one day.
Family is important to Hoover. He has two sisters and two brothers, and he speaks tenderly about his twin brother, who passed away at just 1 year old. “I love being a twin,” he said quietly. “I still do miss him.”
For those who see Hoover each day, his kindness and work ethic stand out as much as his smile. Whether he’s mopping a floor, helping a coworker, or greeting familiar faces in the hallway, Nate Hoover is doing work that matters to him, in a place filled with people he loves.
(Photos courtesy of Tim Hendrick.)