Purpose of the Midwest School Facility Team of the Year Award
The Midwest School Facility Team of the Year Award honors an exceptional school facilities and maintenance team whose collaboration, professionalism, and dedication make a lasting difference for students, staff, and the broader school community. Working largely behind the scenes, these teams keep buildings safe, clean, efficient and ready for learning while responding to daily challenges, improving operations and supporting one another through shared leadership. The award recognizes a team that consistently demonstrates innovation, strong communication, problem-solving and a collective commitment to creating healthy, welcoming and well-maintained learning environments.
To nominate a team, please complete the following form. Nominations accepted through September 20, 2026. The winning team will be notified by October 2, 2026.
Eligibility Criteria
Nominators must be from a school district in the Midwest. The team must exhibit all aspects of the selection criteria.
Selection Criteria
Qualities to consider when recognizing the team you are nominating:
Maintaining a Safe and Functional Environment:
- Reduced safety incidents: Track the number of accidents or injuries reported and how effectively the team addressed them.
- Quick response to maintenance requests: Consider the team's efficiency in resolving issues like plumbing leaks, electrical problems, or temperature control.
- Up-to-date preventative maintenance: Look for evidence of proactive maintenance schedules to prevent future problems.
- Clean and sanitary facilities: This includes classrooms, restrooms, cafeterias, and common areas.
- Compliance with safety: Ensure the team adheres to keeping students safe, fire codes, building codes, and other safety standards.
Efficiency and Innovation:
- Cost-effective solutions: Recognize the team's ability to maintain the facilities within budget and identify cost-saving measures.
- Use of technology: Consider how the team utilizes technology for work orders, scheduling, or resource management.
- Innovative solutions for repairs or upgrades: This could involve finding creative ways to fix problems or improve spaces.
- Sustainable practices: Look for efforts to conserve energy, reduce waste, or utilize eco-friendly materials.
Community Engagement:
- Positive relationships with staff and students: The team should be responsive to concerns and build positive interactions with the school community.
- Effective communication: Consider how well the team communicates upcoming maintenance, closures, or safety procedures.
- Openness to feedback: Recognize the team's willingness to receive and address concerns from staff and students.
- Community involvement projects: This could include organizing volunteer days for facility upgrades or beautification projects.
Overall Excellence:
- Teamwork and collaboration: Look for evidence of a cohesive team that works together effectively.
- Problem-solving skills: Recognize the team's ability to identify, analyze, and resolve facility-related issues.
- Professionalism and work ethic: Consider the team's commitment to excellence and their dedication to maintaining a high standard of work.
- Positive impact on learning environment: The team's efforts should contribute to a safe, comfortable, and conducive space for learning.
Recognition
The winning team will be recognized at that year's Midwest Facility Masters Conference. They will receive a complimentary conference registration for up to five team members. Press releases will be sent to the local media.
Selection Process
The selection committee will include members of the Midwest Facility Masters Conference Planning Committee. The selection committee may request additional information or seek answers to questions at their discretion. The selection committee’s decision is final.