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 May Employees of the Month!
Ilhan Essoukri
Teaneck Public Schools, NJ
Ilhan Essoukri was nominated by Joanna Ebert, fifth-grade teacher at Benjamin Franklin Middle School, who wrote: “I had the pleasure of working with Ms. Ilhan Essoukri this year. The teacher I worked with to support children with special needs was on maternity leave. Ms. Essoukri became the substitute as long as she was available. Because Ms. Esoukri does such a wonderful job, she is often called upon to assist in other areas. During this time, I came to understand how talented Ms Essoukri is in the classroom. She is capable of doing many things. She can manage the classroom, help students individually or in group settings, teach challenging content, and is kind and respectful to her students. She can also perform all general teaching duties. I greatly appreciated her ability to teach math; it is rare to have a substitute who knows how to teach math, as well as Ms. Essoukri. This year, we had a student with special needs who required significant support. Ms. Essoukri did an amazing job of teaching her fractions very well. Her care for her job is very noticeable. She really can do it all. Ms. Essoukri is often called to cover challenging classes or difficult assignments, and she does it all with a smile and a happy personality. She is very reliable and responsible, and we can always count on her at our school. Ms. Essoukri has been a fantastic and conscientious substitute, and I look forward to working with her again soon. It is an honor to nominate Ilhan Essoukri for ESS Employee of the Month.”
Michelle Comunale
Beaufort County School District, SC
Michelle Comunale was nominated by Nichelle McEwen-Tyson, Office Manager/Data Specialist at Coosa Elementary School, who wrote: “Michelle Comunale is not just a dedicated employee; she is a remarkable asset to Coosa Elementary School (CES), which embodies the spirit of community and support. Her unwavering commitment to her work and her colleagues is evident in everything she does. Michelle goes above and beyond her required duties, consistently demonstrating a work ethic that sets a standard for others to follow.
Her creativity is endless, and so is her kindness. Michelle is always available to lend a helping hand, whether it’s brainstorming innovative ideas for student projects or offering support to staff members who need it. Her willingness to jump in and assist whenever needed showcases her dedication to fostering a collaborative and nurturing environment at CES.
In every interaction, Mrs. Comunale radiates positivity and enthusiasm. She takes on challenges with a smile, making her a true rock star in our school community. Her ability to create amazing resources and experiences for students is unparalleled. She is always busy, working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that everyone feels valued and important.
Michelle’s support extends beyond her immediate responsibilities; she is a guiding light for both students and staff. Her infectious smile and encouraging demeanor motivate everyone around her to strive for their best. She embodies the essence of what CES stands for: community, kindness, and excellence. In essence, Mrs. Comunale is the heart of Coosa Elementary School. She is a ray of sunshine who inspires our students to become better individuals every day. Her proactive approach to helping others and her positive attitude make her a valuable asset to our team. It is with great enthusiasm that I nominate Michelle Comunale for this position. She truly deserves recognition for the extraordinary impact she has had on our school and its community.”
James Ricker
Hawkins County Schools, TN
James Ricker was nominated by Anna Blair Caldwell, fourth-grade math teacher at Hawkins Elementary School, who wrote: “I’m writing to enthusiastically recommend James Ricker for recognition for his outstanding work as a substitute teacher at our school. While most substitute roles are short-term and limited in scope, James has gone far beyond expectations. He has been working consistently with our fourth-grade team and has embraced every aspect of the teaching profession with dedication and enthusiasm. He attends all staff and planning meetings, actively participates in our Professional Learning Community, and has become an invaluable member of our math Professional Learning Community (PLC), which was recently recognized for its remarkable growth. His contributions have played a clear role in that success.
James goes the extra mile every single day. He thoughtfully plans in-depth lessons aligned with standards, brings creative and effective teaching strategies to the classroom, and shows genuine care for his students. He has quickly become a trusted colleague and collaborator, and the entire staff frequently comments on the outstanding work he is doing.
We are all excited for the day James completes his schooling and officially becomes a full-time teacher. Until then, we feel incredibly lucky to have him with us. His passion, professionalism, and positive impact deserve to be recognized. Thank you for considering him for any recognition available. He truly exemplifies what it means to go above and beyond in education.”
Bettina Mason
Roanoke City Public School District, VA
Bettina Mason was nominated by Lisa Via, Administrative Assistant at James Madison Middle School, who wrote: “Bettina Mason is quite possibly the most qualified, capable, and confident ESS member that I have ever had the pleasure to work with. Ms. Mason is an innovator within our building. She is more than willing to transform any class thrust upon her without lesson plans and create an environment that is educational and challenging to the students. She quickly creates a safe and inviting atmosphere for both students and staff alike. Ms.
Mason is more than willing to accept any position at a moment’s notice, often switching gears in the middle of an assignment to help where she is most needed. I have not seen a class or situation that she cannot handle with utmost confidence, professionalism, and grace. She has covered classes, worked one-on-one with students, assisted in a wide variety of activities, and supported staff and administration with tasks that keep her constantly on the move throughout the building. Additionally, she has volunteered with our program, RCPS’s Community Builders, after school. She is our go-to floater, covering multiple classes in a day. Ms. Mason has garnered the utmost respect from the staff and students here at Madison, and quite frankly, we would be lost without her. I believe she deserves recognition as the exemplary employee and woman that she is.”