Being a teacher isn’t just about showing up to class. Often, it means digging into your own wallet to make sure students have what they need. Public schools, in particular, face tight budgets that can leave educators scrambling to make things work.
Textbooks? They’re often old and falling apart because there’s no money for new ones. Building improvements? They’re usually postponed indefinitely. Despite all these challenges, there are people who go above and beyond to ensure schools not only function but thrive.
Enter Dr. David Harnish, superintendent of Martin Public Schools. Running a school district is no small task, but when voters approved an $18 million bond to upgrade the district’s buildings, it felt like a dream come true. That is, until one glaring problem came into focus.
The high school desperately needed a fresh coat of paint—a job that would cost an eye-watering $150,000. For a district already stretched thin, that amount was impossible to justify.
“That $150,000 would’ve taken away from the kids or the staff,” Dr. Harnish told Fox 17. It wasn’t an option.
So, instead of giving up, he rolled up his sleeves—literally.
While others were hitting the beach or relaxing on vacation, Dr. Harnish spent his summer painting the school himself. He logged an exhausting 90-hour workweek for months, transforming classrooms and hallways one brushstroke at a time.
“It’s been over 20 years since the last paint job,” he explained. “We could’ve done it bit by bit, but I would’ve been retired before it was finished.”
To speed things along, he even hired a few recent graduates to lend a hand. Not only did this provide some summer income for the students, but it also added a sense of community to the project.
When the first day of school arrived, the freshly painted walls were ready to greet students and parents alike. The response? Pure amazement. Parents couldn’t believe what their superintendent had done. Compliments poured in as the entire school sparkled with new life.
Dr. Harnish’s dedication didn’t just save the district a massive expense; it showed his commitment to his community in the most heartfelt way. His actions prove that leadership isn’t just about making decisions—it’s about doing whatever it takes to make a difference.
So, what’s next for Dr. Harnish? Hopefully, a well-deserved break. But one thing’s for sure: his incredible gesture has left a lasting mark on his school and the people he serves.
Would you ever imagine your school superintendent doing this? Share this story with friends—you never know who might be inspired!
