ESS is proud to celebrate the incredible people behind the work we do. Recently, one of our own received well-earned recognition in the local press.
Cale Beissner, an ESS employee and licensed professional counseling associate, was featured in the Denton Record-Chronicle for his outstanding work as an impact counselor at Savannah Elementary School in Denton ISD. He was highlighted after being named one of just five national recipients of the ESS Impact Award, which honors education professionals who go above and beyond to support students and school communities.
Unlike a traditional substitute teaching role, Cale’s position focused on emotional and social wellness. He provided mental health support to students facing challenges at school and at home. As a result, he quickly became a trusted presence on campus.
His dedication didn’t go unnoticed. Denton ISD’s social-emotional learning coordinator saw his work firsthand and nominated him for the award.
In April, while home sick with COVID, Cale received the news: he had won. At first, he thought it might be an April Fool’s joke. But after a few phone calls, he realized it was real.
As an ESS Impact Award winner, Cale received a $5,000 cash prize, and ESS donated $2,000 to Savannah Elementary in his honor.
Cale’s path to school counseling is inspiring. He holds degrees from Blinn College, the University of North Texas, and Texas Woman’s University. Currently, he’s working toward becoming a fully licensed professional counselor.
His passion for supporting student mental health runs deep. “A lot of kids do not feel understood,” he told the Denton Record-Chronicle. “I try to be there for those individuals.”
Cale’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact one person can make. Whether serving for a day or through a long-term role, ESS team members help change lives every day — and Cale is a perfect example of that.
Congratulations, Cale! And thank you for showing up for students when it matters most.