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When Hilda Macias joined Cedar Hill ISD’s custodial staff in the summer of 1997, “Men In Black” was the most popular movie at the box office. The Dallas Cowboys were less than two years removed from their Super Bowl victory.

Times have changed over the past 29 years, but Macias’ commitment to CHISD’s students and staff remains steady.

“I like all of the places in the District, but I really like being at Highlands Elementary and being around the elementary students,” said Macias, who has served as a custodian at Cedar Hill High School, Lake Ridge Elementary School, Permenter Middle School and the since-closed Joe Wilson Intermediate School.

Macias worked on the night shift for a decade, but she appreciates being on campus during the 6:30 a.m.-3 p.m. day shift, if for no other reason than the interaction with students and staff. She’s been at Highlands for four years.

“She’s been a blessing because there are a lot of custodians in the District who look up to her and want to have that type of longevity,” CHISD Custodial Supervisor Anthony Valentine Jr. said. “Since I’ve arrived in the District, she’s welcomed me with open arms and always has a positive attitude.”

One of the longest tenured custodians in CHISD, Macias moved to the Dallas area from her Jalisco, Mexico to help take care of her nephews. She became an American citizen and applied to work in both CHISD and Midlothian ISD in 1996.

Macias preferred CHISD because she lived in Cedar Hill but honored the commitment she made because she accepted the position in Midlothian.

A year later, she came over to Cedar Hill where the two oldest of her four children were students.

“I like to clean,” Macias said. “The teachers and students have been nice to me.”

In 2003, the family moved to Waxahachie, but Macias’ love for CHISD superseded the need for a nearby workplace. She remained in the district and hopes to stay for at least the next few years.