Celebrating the Champions of the Ellsworth School Department: Meet our September 'High-Five Award' winners!
It's been an awesome start to the school year, and we were PROUD to kick off another year of High-Five Award recognitions this past Tuesday with five amazing nominees! These staff members were chosen for their extraordinary dedication, their above-and-beyond compassion, and the impact they've had and continue to have on our students and community. Their stories remind us what makes Ellsworth such a special place to learn, live, and grow.
Jane White - 7th Grade Science
Jane spent hours upon hours organizing the 7th grade trip to SEA Camp at the Schoodic Institute at Acadia National Park. With vacations, sporting events, conflicting schedules, and more- it was certainly a logistical challenge for Jane, but she overcame like a pro! Thanks to her efforts and coordination, students enjoyed a safe, inclusive, and more importantly FUN overnight adventure at SEA Camp- many of them getting to do so for the first time ever!
Emily Nash & Vanessa Richards - Adult Education
When we talk about showing up every day, Emily and Vanessa are the pinnacles of this for our Adult and Community Education students. The two of them exemplify excellence in every way. Their ability to not only inspire, but celebrate each student’s journey reflects the heart of our Adult Education mission. The open communication, flexibility, positivity, and respect for our students make them pillars of not only the Adult Education department, but our district as a whole.
Clyde Cushing - Special Education
If you’ve met Clyde, you’ve probably heard him ask, “How can I help?” quite a few times. His mantra, though, is more than just a simple question- it’s the way he carries himself every day. When we needed Clyde to restructure our K-4 Behavior Program, he rolled up his sleeves and got to work- attacking the mission with collaboration, positivity, and a focus on the needs of his students. From the moment he came on board as an Ed Tech, to all the things he’s done for us in the Special Education Behavior Room, Clyde is a perfect example of what makes Ellsworth schools great.
Michelle Mahon - Transportation
Michelle’s role as a driver slowly turned into so much more. Through her daily care, conversation, and openness, Michelle helped a student battling an illness transition from rough mornings into learning with hope and strength. Michelle was not only offering comfort, but inspiration and motivation, too. Her compassion turned car rides to school almost into lifelines- showing us all that through connection and kindness, we can change lives for the better.
