Park Elementary School’s beloved head custodian, Mr. Peanuts, played a special role in the tree lighting ceremony at the Wisconsin State Capitol in downtown Madison on Dec. 4.
Gov. Tony Evers invited Rodney “Mr. Peanuts” Esser to speak during the 2025 Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony. This year’s theme, “The Learning Tree,” celebrated educators and other school heroes throughout Wisconsin for making a positive impact on students.
“Every morning, these students come into school along with staff, and they give me hugs, high-fives, and fist bumps,” Mr. Peanuts said during the ceremony. “You just feel better and feel good all day long, and the next day, you get to do it all over again.”
With a remarkable career spanning more than 60 years in MCPASD, Mr. Peanuts is one of the District’s most recognizable employees. He goes above and beyond to connect with students and the community.
During a photo session after the ceremony, Gov. Evers described Mr. Peanuts as “a treasure.” Audience members also thanked him for his dedication and commitment to Park Elementary School and MCPASD.
“People ask me what keeps me going, and I tell them it’s very simple,” Mr Peanuts said. “I just love what I do.”