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 March Employees of the Month!
Vyonne Hodge
Birmingham City Schools, AL
Vyonne Hodge was nominated four times this month by colleagues from Inglenook Pre K-8, who praised her for her dedication.
Dydrea Pittman, Assistant, who wrote: “I recommend Yvonne Hodge for the ESS Employee of the Month Award. Ms. Hodge consistently demonstrates a strong commitment to excellence and has proven invaluable to our school community.
Her dedication to quality is evident in her attendance and daily performance. She goes above and beyond her job responsibilities, ensuring students receive the highest support and guidance. Whether stepping into a classroom as a substitute or assisting colleagues, Ms. Hodge brings a level of professionalism and enthusiasm that inspires those around her.
Ms. Hodge exemplifies integrity, kindness, and dedication. Her infectious, positive attitude fosters a welcoming and productive atmosphere for students and staff. She consistently collaborates and plans with the faculty and her peers, helping to enhance our scholars’ educational experience in any way possible.
I wholeheartedly support Yvonne Hodge’s nomination for this recognition. Her contributions deserve this honor, and I am confident she will continue to impact our schools positively.
Thank you for considering her for this well-deserved recognition.”
Loraine Lewis, second-grade teacher, who wrote: ” Yvonne Hodge is wonderful with the students.”
Quenette Mason, teacher, who wrote: “I am honored to nominate Mrs. Vyonne Hodge for the ESS Employee of the Month. She is dedicated and inspiring and has profoundly impacted both students’ and teachers’ lives through her passion for students and unwavering support in classrooms. From the moment students see Mrs. Hodge, they immediately become excited. She has a love for learning and ensures every student feels valued. Mrs. Hodge is patient and kind and brings a calmness to your day. She consistently demonstrates a commitment to academic excellence and personal growth. For these reasons and many more, I wholeheartedly nominate Mrs. Vyonne Hodge for this well-deserved recognition.
Thank you for considering her for this well-deserved recognition.”
Miriam Harvell, first-grade teacher, who wrote: “Mrs. Hodge inspires students to learn, fosters a supportive learning environment, demonstrates outstanding teaching practices, contributes to the school community, and shows dedication to students and colleagues.”
Kara Brady
Teaneck Public Schools, NJ
Kara Brady was nominated by Terrence Williams, Principal at Benjamin Franklin Middle School, who wrote: “With great appreciation, we nominate Mrs. Kara Brady for recognition as an exceptional substitute teacher at Benjamin Franklin Middle School. Over the past few years, Mrs. Brady has been a dedicated and reliable member of our educational community, consistently demonstrating patience, adaptability, and a deep commitment to student success.
This year, Mrs. Brady took on the significant responsibility of a long-term substitute role in one of our MD classrooms. Her ability to provide a structured, supportive, and engaging learning environment has tremendously impacted students and staff. She approaches each day with professionalism, compassion, and an unwavering willingness to meet her students’ diverse needs. Her exceptional communication skills and collaborative spirit have been invaluable in ensuring continuity and success in the classroom.
Mrs. Brady’s dedication goes beyond instruction as she fosters a positive and inclusive atmosphere where students feel valued and supported. Her contributions have greatly enhanced our school community, and we are truly grateful for her hard work and commitment. It is an honor to recognize Mrs. Kara Brady for her outstanding service and dedication to the students and staff of Benjamin Franklin Middle School.”
Jacqueline Curtis
Hampton City Schools, VA
Jacqueline Curtis was nominated by Jenee’ Coxon-Jackson, teacher at Bethel High School, who wrote: “I am pleased to recommend Mrs. Jacqueline Curtis as my favorite ESS employee. Mrs. Curtis is a tremendous resource at Bethel High School. She has assisted me with challenging classes for the past two years. Mrs. Curtis goes above and beyond expectations and is happy to help whenever and however she can. Seldom absent, Mrs. Curtis is very productive and faithful. In the science classroom, she makes copies, sanitizes tables, writes passes, escorts students to various places, decorates for the seasons, serves food, organizes and grades papers, etc. Mrs. Curtis takes initiative and uses her creativity and effective communication to accomplish tasks. There is no such thing as ‘CAN’T’ in her vocabulary. If she does not know how to do something, she asks for assistance and always follows through on assignments. An encourager and motivator, Mrs. Curtis is an excellent listener and always gives shoutouts for doing a great job.
Mrs. Curtis is very caring and has a good rapport with students, her peers, the faculty, and the staff. She enjoys being an honorary member of the BHS science team and is very generous with her time, energy, and even money during celebrations and significant life events. Mrs. Curtis is very observant and has a pulse on what is happening within the school. She shares what she sees and hears professionally for the school’s good. Even in troubling situations, she always looks for the good in people and is a rock. She is also able to anticipate the needs of others and often takes it upon herself to watch a class if a teacher needs to leave the classroom suddenly and/or arrives at school late. When she is not assigned to a classroom, Mrs. Curtis even checks in with teachers with physical challenges to see how she can assist (ex., running errands throughout the building and making copies).
In summary, Mrs. Jacqueline Curtis is a professional, compassionate, flexible employee who goes above and beyond the call of duty in an ever-changing school environment. Mrs. Curtis is a true asset to our school. She does anything and everything she is asked, even some things she is not asked, to make the learning experience pleasant and memorable for students, peers, faculty, and staff. Thank you for considering her for this honor.”
Lauren Semrow
Stoughton Area School District, WI
Lauren Semrow was nominated two times this month by colleagues from Kegonsa Elementary School, who praised her for going above and beyond.
Marta Kolin, Art teacher, who wrote: “Lauren Semrow is always willing to step up and offer help during her open prep times. She goes above and beyond to create and build relationships with her students. Every student is excited to hear she’ll be their guest teacher for the day! She is beyond extraordinary!”
Lauren Southern, Administrative Assistant, who wrote: “I’m nominating Lauren because she’s simply amazing. From the moment she walked into Kegonsa Elementary School, she brought an eagerness to help and a genuine love for working with kids. In just a few short weeks, she didn’t just fill a role; she has become part of our school family. She has taken on a long-term subbing position without hesitation and has shown incredible dedication, flexibility, and kindness. She’s willing to work with any grade level when needed. She always has a positive attitude and a warm heart shining through. We are so lucky to have her; she truly deserves recognition!”