In celebration of American Education Week, ESS recently awarded our 5th Annual Impact Awards! The Impact Award was created in 2014 to recognize employees based on number of days worked in a one-year period, feedback from our partner school district(s), and a commitment to exceed the expectations of their role.
This year, we honored three individuals who make an impact on the schools they serve every day. They perpetually perform above and beyond their assigned duties, all while exuding a wonderful attitude. The 2018 honorees were each recognized at their school districts, where they received a $500 cash prize, an additional $500 to donate to a school, and a crystal apple trophy.
Malvin Meck
Stratford School District, NJ
In his nearly four years with ESS, Malvin Meck filled 528 assignments at the Stratford and Washington Twp. School Districts. It became apparent to us that Malvin is a local celebrity at Samuel S. Yellin School in Stratford when 11 different people from the school nominated him for our employee of the month award!
From teachers to classroom aides to school administrators, the consensus is clear: Malvin is a beloved substitute who is considered an important member of Yellin’s learning team. He has built outstanding rapport with students, staff, and the greater school community. Furthermore, Malvin frequently attends after-hours events on his own time, such as concerts, drama productions, the student-faculty basketball game, and the Wing Bowl fundraiser.
When Malvin substitutes in a classroom, students feel comfortable and motivated to continue with their learning. Meanwhile, teachers rest easy, knowing their class is in capable hands. He takes on both substitute teacher and paraprofessional assignments, and does an amazing job working with students with disabilities. The Yellin staff describe Malvin as friendly, caring, kind, well-respected, positive, flexible, compassionate, and patient, with a wonderful sense of humor. These qualities make him an effective educator, and we’re thrilled to recognize him with an Impact Award!
Karen Warren
Bay School District, AR
After retiring years ago, Karen Warren felt the need to do more. She became a substitute teacher in 2012 and has worked 99 assignments in the past year alone. Plus, she already has assignments scheduled throughout December (which is especially appreciated since the holidays are always a time of increased substitute need!)
Karen received an Impact Award because she is a staple substitute for the Bay School District, working frequently at both the high school and elementary school. She is the go-to substitute for our local ESS team, who always sings her praises. Whenever there is a last-minute or challenging assignment, they know Karen is just a phone call away. She accepts jobs at a moment’s notice and does fabulous work in every assignment she fills. We receive positive feedback about her by school secretaries and teachers alike.
Karen, who was shaking with excitement when presented with the award last week, said that she simply loves working with the students. They keep her motivated to keep coming back! The award presentation was covered by KAIT 8 – read the article here.
Kim Hunter
Winslow Township School District, NJ
Kim Hunter has been a trusted and reliable education support professional with ESS since 2010. In her permanent role, she demonstrates her ability to support the special education population at both the middle and high school level. She is patient, kind, and knowledgeable. Plus, she’s a savvy decision-maker in the school setting. We can always count on her to assist with the most challenging cases.
Beyond Kim’s exemplary work in the classroom, the Winslow staff greatly appreciates Kim’s willingness to take on special responsibilities. For example, she participates in the extended school year program every summer so her students continue making progress beyond the typical school year. Additionally, she partakes in field trips, events, and special projects. She even makes time to ride the school bus with certain students who need a bit of extra support during transitions to and from school. Whatever role Kim is taking on, she does so with a positive and professional attitude.
Kim is a prime example of what an education support professional be. She is highly deserving of the Impact Award. We’re fortunate to have her as part of our great team at the Winslow Township School District.