At ESS, we know the people behind the work are what make a difference. Every month, our partner school districts nominate ESS employees who have gone above and beyond to support their schools and communities. From those nominations, we select four team members to recognize as our Employees of the Month. We’re excited to celebrate our August 2026 Employees of the Month and the dedication they bring to their roles every day!
Chelsey Glysz
Saginaw Public Schools, MI
Chelsey Glysz was nominated by Dana Heyl, Principal at Kempton Elementary, who wrote: “I am honored to nominate Chelsey Glysz for her outstanding dedication and unwavering commitment to Kempton Elementary. Chelsey is an invaluable asset to our school, always dependable and deeply loved by students. Her enthusiasm and creativity shine through as she consistently brings fresh ideas to improve areas in the building and support both staff and students.
Beyond her role as a building substitute, Chelsey has invested countless hours coaching teams each season, assisting teachers, and actively participating in community events. She goes above and beyond to support families in need, offering transportation, purchasing clothing and essential items, and attending family gatherings to show her support. She often volunteers many hours after school to help our students and families.
What makes Chelsey’s contributions even more remarkable is that she manages all of this while working multiple jobs and attending school full-time. Her dedication, generosity, and tireless efforts make a profound impact on our school community. Chelsey Glysz embodies the spirit of service and excellence, and she is truly deserving of this recognition.”
Frances Powell
Lamar County Schools, MS
Frances Powell was nominated eight times this month by colleagues from Purvis Upper Elementary, who all spoke about how she always goes above and beyond.
Alicia Logan, Special Education Teacher, wrote: “Fran is top tier! She is responsible and respectful. The students all love her and know her by name. She truly wants to teach the students when she is here, not just be a placeholder. I have seen her seek out other staff when she was unsure of something to make sure she teaches the students correctly. She always goes above and beyond; she even attends PLCs and actively participates. She is very deserving of this recognition.”
Jena Agent, Fourth Grade Teacher, wrote: “Fran is a retired teacher who loves to be in the classroom. She goes above and beyond when she is here as a substitute. She makes sure the students are loved and ensures they are learning exactly what the teacher has left for them. She is truly the best substitute I have ever had. She leaves me messages and lets me know how my students behaved.”
Jayme Anderson, Teacher, wrote: “Ms. Fran is a joy to work with, and students absolutely respond positively to her. She has great classroom management, and I know that when I leave my class with her, she keeps them safe, respected, and loved. My students love seeing her come into the classroom, and she always has a smile on her face. She goes above the call of duty, for sure!”
Haley Curtis, Teacher, wrote: “The ABSOLUTE BEST substitute ever! I will ask for her every time she is available. She goes above and beyond for all of the students at our school, and they all love her too. She was my substitute while I went on maternity leave, and I had no worries in the world while I was gone because I knew Mrs. Fran was going to take care of my students like her own. She is awesome!”
Kayla Steelman, Special Education Teacher, wrote: “Ms. Fran has subbed when needed and has also been a long-term substitute at our school multiple times. She faces every challenge head-on and is not afraid to ask questions for clarification. She builds relationships with students and co-workers, and everyone on campus respects her. To know her is to love her!”
Amanda Bolin, Fourth Grade Teacher, wrote: “She goes above and beyond for our school. She has been willing to do anything asked of her and more.”
Kristi Raynes, Teacher, wrote: “Ms. Fran always has a positive attitude and is always smiling. She will do whatever you ask her to do during the day. She is always on time and the students love her!”
Jennifer Moore, Principal, wrote: “She shows up when she has a job every time. Teachers highly request her because she does her best to teach the lessons left and can handle classroom management. She is always professionally dressed, conducts herself professionally with staff and students, and stays off her phone. Students have even asked when Ms. Powell will be coming back. I can’t express the relief we feel when she can substitute here at PUE. We know what we are getting is absolute quality in Ms. Powell.”
Taereese Olsen
Tooele County School District, UT
Taereese Olsen was nominated by Michael Isaza, Facility Manager at Rose Springs Elementary and Sterling Elementary, who wrote: “This summer, Tae Olsen has worked for me at both Rose Springs and Sterling Elementary. If I had the option of hiring her full-time right now, I would take a pay cut to do so. Neither of these schools would be close to done without Tae Olsen. That is an absolute fact!
Josephine Church
Staunton City Schools, VA
Josephine Church was nominated by William Brown, Principal at A. R. Ware Elementary, who wrote: “I am excited to nominate Jo Church for Employee of the Month! Jo has become such a natural and valued member of our school community that it is easy to forget she is a substitute. She steps into our building ready to work, help wherever she is needed, and make a positive difference for both students and staff.