No Janitors, No Problem

Upon entering any of the schools I go to, rule number one is to take off your outdoor shoes and put on your indoor shoes or slippers. And while this is step one in keeping the school clean, step two is the cleaning period after lunchtime recess. All of the students and teachers pitch in with brooms and dustpans, trash bags and rags, with many hands stacking chairs and moving desks around. Of course every class has a few students who would rather chat or goof off in that time, but most seem to have a strong sense of responsibility to keep their school clean. Since most schools seem to operate this way, there is really no need for any janitors or cleaning people. There is, however, a utility worker at every school who keeps everything outside spic and span.
As a teacher, I of course join in with the students in the cleaning as well. I try to change up who I clean with, and a lot of times will base it on who I'm teaching the next period. However, certain classes seem to like me as a part of the cleaning crew, so I may end up sticking with them more often. I've been told by a few people, teachers and students alike, that I don't sweep the broom properly. The other American teacher said he's been told the same thing, but neither one of us is quite sure what we're doing wrong. If I ever find out, I'll let you guys know.