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 September 2026 Employees of the Month and the dedication they bring to their roles every day!
Thomas Casey
Norwich Public Schools, CT
Thomas Casey was nominated by Ed Lavoie, Principal at Teachers’ Memorial Middle School, who wrote: “I am pleased to nominate Tom Casey for recognition as an Outstanding Long-Term Substitute at Teacher’s Memorial Middle School. Tom consistently demonstrated the professionalism, dedication, and commitment to students that make him an invaluable member of our school community.
Throughout his time at TMMS, Tom went above and beyond the expectations of his role. He built positive relationships with students, kept them engaged in learning, and provided the consistency and support they needed to be successful. His ability to step into a classroom and become a trusted, dependable presence speaks volumes about his character and commitment as an educator.
Tom was also a true team player who willingly collaborated with colleagues, supported school initiatives, and embraced our Panther culture. He approached every responsibility with a positive attitude, flexibility, and a genuine desire to contribute to the success of our students and staff.
Most importantly, Tom remained a constant professional. His reliability, work ethic, and willingness to step up whenever needed made a lasting impact on our school.
Tom exemplifies what it means to be an outstanding long-term substitute. His contributions to our students, staff, and school community are greatly appreciated, and I am proud to nominate him for this recognition.”
Anna Porter
Cumberland County Schools, NC
Anna Porter was nominated by Lisa Gillespie, Principal at Mary McArthur Elementary School, who wrote: “Ms. Porter is a beloved member of the Cardinal Family at Mary McArthur Elementary School. Year after year, she has served as one of our preferred substitutes, accepting both daily assignments and long-term positions whenever there is a need.
When we needed a Kindergarten Instructional Assistant to begin the school year, Ms. Porter readily stepped into the role and helped our youngest Cardinals successfully transition into a new school year. I especially want to recognize the patience, kindness, and consistency she has shown while supporting a student who is experiencing significant challenges adjusting to school due to language and sensory needs.
Whether she helps the student calm and regulate, accompanies him to elective classes so he can participate successfully, manages the classroom while the teacher attends meetings, or covers lunch duties, Ms. Porter never hesitates to step in wherever she is needed.
Ms. Porter is the epitome of a substitute who goes beyond the assignment because she sees a need and simply wants to help. She has become much more than a substitute at our school; she is truly part of our Cardinal Family, and we love and appreciate her for it. She is more than deserving of this recognition!”
Brittney Petroski
Spring Branch ISD, TX
Brittney Petroski was nominated five times this month by colleagues across Spring Branch ISD, who all spoke about how dedicated she is and the positive impact she makes at the schools she serves.
Michael Dorantes, Teacher, wrote: “I am pleased to nominate Brittney Petroski for the ESS Employee of the Month Award. As a fellow teacher, I have seen firsthand the positive impact Brittney has on both students and staff.
Brittney is dependable, professional, and always willing to help wherever she is needed. She quickly establishes a respectful and welcoming classroom environment while following the teacher’s lesson plans and maintaining high expectations for students. Her calm demeanor, patience, and ability to connect with students make her a valuable presence on our campus.
What truly sets Brittney apart is that she does more than simply supervise a classroom. She actively supports student learning, communicates well with teachers and staff, and approaches every assignment with a positive attitude. Teachers can feel confident knowing their students and classrooms are in capable hands when Brittney is present.
Brittney represents the dedication, flexibility, and professionalism that every school hopes to find in a substitute teacher. She is highly deserving of recognition as the ESS Employee of the Month.”
Alex Dorantes, Teacher, wrote: “Brittney deserves Employee of the Month for her dedication and positive impact as a long-term World History and Geography AAC substitute. She has provided consistency for students, built strong relationships, and stepped in seamlessly to support learning every day. Her reliability, flexibility, and commitment to student success make her truly deserving of this recognition.”
Rebecca Campbell, Teacher, wrote: “Brittney is always smiling and encouraging both students and colleagues. She is well-prepared every day. You would think she was the assigned teacher rather than a long-term substitute.”
Lisa West, Teacher, wrote: “She is a conscientious person who made sure the lesson plans were followed when she subbed here at SWHS.”
Donald Peaock, Teacher, wrote: “Brittney is great at her job.”
Madeline Kjar
Ogden School District, UT
Madeline Kjar was nominated by Audrey Armer, Head Secretary at George Washington High School, who wrote: “We would like to nominate Madeline Kjar for Employee of the Month in recognition of her dedication, dependability, and exceptional professionalism at the start of the school year.
Madeline graciously agreed to take on a long-term substitute position for the first few weeks of the school year. She also went above and beyond by coming on-site the week before school started to help us prepare for students to arrive. Her willingness to be here early and support our staff and students made a tremendous difference as we prepared for a successful start to the year.
Most importantly, Madeline demonstrated exceptional composure during an unexpected student emergency in her classroom. While the student is healthy and doing well, the situation could have been very stressful and overwhelming. Madeline remained calm, responded appropriately, and handled the situation amazingly. She not only helped keep the student safe, but also maintained a calm and safe environment for the entire class.
Emergencies can be difficult, and not everyone is able to remain calm under pressure. Madeline’s ability to stay composed, think clearly, and prioritize the safety and well-being of her students was truly commendable.
We are incredibly grateful for Madeline’s willingness to step in, her commitment to our students, and the professionalism she has demonstrated. She is absolutely deserving of recognition as Employee of the Month!”