As of the year 2022, Leo Hayes High School is 23 years old. It has seen many changes, from the expansion of Cliff Street to the building of the Willie O’Ree Center, but the school itself appears to be in perfect condition. This is thanks to the hard work of Keith Innis, the building superintendent.
Every day, Mr. Innis oversees maintenance and the running of the building. “On top of it all I must try to keep everyone happy,” Mr. Innis added, which can be difficult in a building of approximately 1,670 people. To do this, Mr. Innis follows a general routine every day that starts with a drive and a walk around the school to check for any issues. He then runs checks on everything from ventilation systems to heating. These checks are what keep the building running smoothly for all the students and staff at Leo Hayes.
Mr. Innis is extremely passionate about his job here at the school. “I really do enjoy coming in every day,” he says, “I enjoy what I do, and am incredibly happy with my role here at the school.” For the students and staff at Leo Hayes, this passion is an essential part of their everyday life. Though often overlooked, the building we learn and work in is an important part of how we succeed. Along with this passion, Mr. Innis also feels a strong connection to Leo Hayes. “I treat the building as it was my own and I have an extremely high-level sense of ownership.”
Mr. Innis has been a fundamental fixture at Leo Hayes since its opening in 1999. Through his hard work, the school runs smoothly and has become a wonderful building to learn in.
Mr. Innis wanted to leave students with a closing message that reflects the love he has for Leo Hayes, “You are the future, go be awesome!”