Rodney “Mr. Peanuts” Esser, Park Elementary School’s head custodian for 61 years, plans to strengthen and expand his connections with the community long after his upcoming retirement.
“Meeting people, making friends, and making life easier for staff, students, and parents has been my passion,” Esser said while reflecting on his career. “Elementary school has been the perfect fit for me.”
Mr. Peanuts announced his retirement, effective July 6, during Park’s Jan. 14 staff meeting. His retirement plans include spending more time with his family as well as working with more than 600 cattle on ranches in South Dakota. He’s also looking forward to a new role at Park this fall: volunteering part-time as a mentor to students.
“I’m excited for this next chapter, and I hope to continue giving back in ways that feel meaningful,” Esser said.
Throughout his six-decade career, Mr. Peanuts has earned numerous awards and built many friendships with students and colleagues, who said they will cherish the memories made with him as well as the wisdom he’s shared.
“His retirement marks the end of an era that will leave a legacy of kindness, an infectious presence, and a level of consistency that made us all better as people and as a community,” said Brett Humphrey, Park Elementary School principal. “He truly is the best of us.”
“Mr. Peanuts is the definition of kindness and commitment. He is the heart of this school and community,” added Elyse Grothaus, fourth-grade teacher at Park. “We’re so happy for him, but we’re going to miss him.”
Join us in thanking Mr. Peanuts for his decades of commitment and service to our schools and congratulating him on his upcoming retirement! Check out his recent interview with WMTV 15 News about the impact he has made and his legacy at Park.