On May 7, 2024, ESS and the School District of Philadelphia held an assembly to surprise ESS substitute teacher Annie Gadson with a 2024 Impact Award. Every year, ESS chooses one outstanding substitute from each of its five entities to recognize for their excellence throughout the school year. Annie was selected as this year’s winner for the Northeast. She was presented with a $1000 cash prize, an additional $500 to donate to Paul Robeson High School where she teaches as a substitute, and a crystal apple trophy.
Annie taught at the School District of Philadelphia for over 40 years before retiring in 2014. However, she soon realized that she missed working with the children at the school. Two years ago, Annie decided to return as a substitute teacher through ESS. At the age of 75, Annie is committed to ensuring that all her students feel safe and well-cared for. Her students affectionately refer to her as “Grandma”.
Principal King of Paul Robeson High School shared, “Ms. Gadson has been given the nickname of “Grandma” by the students as they adore her and respect her because of the constant care and safety that the community feels while she is present within the school. She continues to amaze us with the dedication that she showers on all of us at Paul Robeson High School as her time and work with the students goes above and beyond the level of a daily substitute teacher.”
Joe Birmingham, ESS Vice President of Operations, said, “It is such a privilege to have had the opportunity to honor Annie Gadson with the ESS Northeast Impact Award for the 2023-24 School Year! The love and affection that Annie Gadson receives from the students and staff of Paul Robeson High School clearly demonstrates her ability to connect with individuals across the entire Robeson community and shows that she leaves a direct and lasting impact on all in her path on a daily basis.”
Annie’s inspiring story has caught the attention of multiple media outlets. The Philadelphia Inquirer featured her Impact Award presentation in an article. It was also covered in a segment on Action News.
Check out the news article about Annie Gadson here: https://www.inquirer.com/education/philadelphia-substitute-teacher-annie-gadson-robeson-high-award-ess-20240507.html
Check out the news clip featuring Annie Gadson (starts at timestamp 31:40) here: https://6abc.com/14780613/
We are honored to have Annie Gadson as part of the ESS family. She makes a positive impact on students every day.