Boston Janitor Finds Purpose and Inspires Daughter

Quick Smiles:

• James Corrao turned his life around for his daughter and found meaning as a school janitor.
• Annabelle returned to the same school to teach floral-arranging lessons, inspired by her dad.
• The father-daughter duo shares pride in each other’s journeys and bring smiles to students together.

James Corrao made a life-changing decision at 19, motivated by the arrival of his daughter, Annabelle. Over twenty years later, Annabelle describes him as a dependable and loving father who has always been by her side.

Before Annabelle was born, Corrao started working as a janitor in Worcester Public Schools. What began as stable work soon became a fulfilling calling as he connected with students and took pride in making a difference each day.

“I knew if I didn’t stop then, I wasn’t going to make it,” Corrao tells TODAY.com.

Corrao cherished morning routines, caring for classrooms, and even leaving little notes for Annabelle when she was a student. Years later, Annabelle returned as a budding florist, leading students in creative floral projects at her childhood school.

“My dad is the one who inspired me to chase my dream,” Annabelle tells TODAY.

A playful classroom moment captured Corrao joking with students during Annabelle’s lesson, highlighting their close bond. He shared his awe at seeing her confidently guide the children.

“It was surreal,” he says. “Watching her in there with those kids … I was in awe.”

Annabelle proudly celebrates her father’s journey, including his success as a TikTok comedian, encouraged by her support. She delights in seeing students’ excitement to interact with him and treasures their unique father-daughter connection.

“The kids get so excited to see him,” Annabelle says.

Stay tuned for more stories that warm the heart and showcase family bonds!

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