ESS

🍎 | KIM GRIFFIN (NC) wrote: "I chose to become a substitute teacher primarily to supplement my income. After I started, it became more important to mentor a child who may not have that support at home, or simply one who struggled with classroom learning. I’ve been told that I can’t save them all, but if I can have a positive impact on one child, then that is a success. I’m blessed that some students come to me with memories of something I did for them, even if it was from a previous grade. Some hope I’m always their sub. It’s rewarding because I had lots of support when my own children were in school, and I can be that for a child who isn’t as fortunate."

🎟️ Don't miss out on this month's exciting prizes! Work 5+ days in June for a chance to win. Check out our blog to see this month's prizes and the lucky winners of the May raffle!

🔗 https://bit.ly/4xc42t7

Just a little reminder: To ensure we support our team in each one of our partner districts, this raffle runs from August through June to align with varying school calendars.

Thank you for being consistent.

And the Priority Pay Day winners are… 🎉👏

Our 2026 Priority Pay Days program officially wrapped up, and we’re excited to celebrate the 15 ESS employees selected to receive a $500 American Express e-gift card!

Thank you to everyone who supported schools on high-need Mondays and Fridays this spring. Your dedication to ensuring every day counts for our partner districts is truly appreciated.

Check out our latest blog to see the full list of winners! 👇
🔗https://bit.ly/4e3eni6

Looking for your next career opportunity—or know someone who is? 👀

Be sure to check out the Willmar Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce Job Board for local openings with businesses that are investing in our region and helping our community thrive. From entry-level positions to experienced professionals, you'll find opportunities with employers who are committed to local growth and success. 🤝

🔗 public.willmarareachamber.com/jobs

Anez Consulting, CentraCare - Willmar, Central Minnesota Christian School, Citizens Alliance Bank, DATASuccess, Inc, ESS, Dooleys Petroleum Inc., Heritage Bank NA-Willmar, Haug Implement Co., Lake Region Bank, Jennie-O, Life-Science Innovations, Northern Radiator, Nova-Tech Engineering LLC, United Prairie, Vinna Human Resources, WCI · Work Focused · Community Minded · Impacting Lives, West Central Sanitation, West Central Technology, Inc., Willmar Public School District

ESS had the privilege of presenting our 2026 3-5 Art Contest winner, Danielle Wong, with her well-deserved prizes at school! 🏆 Danielle was awarded $500 and a personalized ESS Moleskine sketchbook by Jennifer Fisher, SVP of Operations in California. Her school, Walnut Elementary School, also received a $500 check.

Congratulations, Danielle! Your creativity is truly inspiring, and we look forward to seeing what you create next.

If you missed Danielle's winning art submission, head over to our blog to check out her masterpiece along with the rest of our 2026 winners' art: https://hubs.la/Q04jd_n90

🍎 | ERIC DUDA (PA) wrote: "I have been substituting for 15 years now. I have experienced all grade levels, Pre-K through 12th grade, as well as all subjects and classroom types. My favorites are the Learning Support classes and specials. I find that I can learn something new every day and try to find humor in tense situations. It is always satisfying when you see a student have that ‘Ah-ha moment’ when they finally understand something they were struggling with.

Kids will push your buttons and challenge you, but they crave consistent and fair boundaries. Remember, they may not remember your name or what you said, but they will remember how you made them feel."

Another incredible school year is wrapping up, and our West team gave it their all from start to finish. 📔 Thank you for continuing to support schools, celebrating our team, and representing ESS with passion and professionalism every day.

Every day, substitute teachers and paraprofessionals help keep learning moving forward, inspire students, and make a lasting impact at school. Thank you for stepping in, showing up, and making a difference when schools need you the most. 🍎💙

🎉 Congratulations to the Class of 2026 on reaching this milestone. Every graduation represents dedication, growth, and the effort it takes to move forward.

Wherever your next step leads, we wish you success and fulfillment in the journey ahead. Well done, graduates. 🎉