At ESS, our strength lies in our phenomenal team, and we’re proud to recognize those who lead by example. Each month, our partner school districts submit glowing reviews of our employees, from which we select four employees of the month. We believe in celebrating the hard work, dedication, and achievements of our team members who go above and beyond in their roles. We are thrilled to recognize our May 2026 Employees of the Month!
Sarah Rabe
Sapulpa Public Schools, OK
Sarah Rabe was nominated seven times this month by colleagues from Jefferson Heights Elementary, who all spoke about how she continues to go above and beyond.
Sandra Smith, SLP, wrote: “Sarah goes above and beyond what is asked of her.”
Dani McElyea, Second Grade Teacher, wrote: “Sarah has gone above and beyond to help our school. She has filled in wherever needed and even made time to help with various school activities and events.”
Christina Clanton, Child Nutritionist, wrote: “She came to help out on our Discovery Day, where students go from station to station doing different science activities. She helped manage the students very well on one of the most chaotic days of the year. She did all of this calmly and very effectively while leading the children in a calm and peaceful manner.”
Alexandra DeLozier, Fourth Grade Teacher, wrote: “Sarah goes above and beyond to help wherever she is needed. Whether it’s changing classrooms she is subbing in or helping out in the office during her planning time, she does whatever is asked with a smile on her face. She is very dependable and is always on time. She has an amazing rapport with students. Whenever either my teaching partner and I are going to be out, our students’ first question is always, ‘Is Ms. Rabe our substitute?’ When she is our substitute, I know I don’t have to worry about coming back to a dirty or chaotic classroom. Sarah is a breath of fresh air and a wonderful addition when she is in our building.”
Amber Robertson, Assistant Principal, wrote: “Sarah has been a huge asset to our school for the last few months. She has been flexible and assisted wherever we have needed. Every employee who has had the opportunity to work with her has sung her praises. We are very lucky to have her want to work with our school.”
Gina Ritchie, Principal, wrote: “Sarah is so friendly and willing to step in and help in anyway she can! She is great with the students and they are always happy to see her walk through the door!”
John Moe
Medford School District, OR
John Moe was nominated by April Harrison, Campus Monitor at Oakdale Middle School, who wrote: “I would like to nominate John Moe for recognition due to his exceptional dedication and commitment to our school community. Time and again, he has gone above and beyond what is expected in a substitute role. He has willingly taken on extended assignments when needed, providing consistency and stability for our students.
Jennifer Tyler
Denton ISD, TX
Jennifer Tyler was nominated twice this month by colleagues from Denton High School, who spoke about her great rapport with students and her follow-through with instructions from the staff.
Lisa Gould, Receptionist, wrote: “Jennifer is a powerful positive presence on any day she shows up to sub. Jennifer is always on time and prepared for the day with a smile that warms any room. When Jennifer subs in a classroom, students know to show respect and keep their attitudes in check, they do their work and behave, knowing if they do not, the class will hear from their teacher upon return.
Mr. Redding, Teacher, wrote: “I have a great substitute teacher, Jennifer Tyler, to nominate for Employee of the Month because she steps in with professionalism, patience, and consistency. She keeps my classroom running smoothly, supports students without hesitation, and maintains high expectations while still being approachable. Her being reliable makes a real difference. She is someone I can count on.”
Kenneth Baxley
Roanoke City Public Schools, VA
Kenneth Baxley was nominated by Lezlie Yaeger, Principal at Monterey Elementary School, who wrote: “Mr. Baxley consistently demonstrates exceptional reliability and professionalism, showing up prepared and ready to support students every single day. His strong classroom management skills help to create a calm, structured environment where learning can continue seamlessly, no matter the class or grade level. He builds genuine relationships with the students, shows patience, and treats every child with respect. His consistency, adaptability, and commitment to student success make him an outstanding substitute.”