Employee Spotlight Program Honors Outstanding Employees

Dale Allred is responsible for the safe and efficient bus routing of more than 27,000 students.  He supervises bus driver training and oversees all transportation technology.  Recently, under Dale’s supervision, 500 buses were equipped with new, upgraded camera systems in order to enhance the safety and security of the district’s bus fleet.  His diplomatic skills are exceptional, allowing him to connect with people and reassure them that their concerns are not only heard, but addressed.  Dale has an excellent rapport with parents, school administrators and the district leadership team. The entire transportation department is better because of Dale’s work ethic and demeanor!

Passionate about being an educator perfectly describes Cynthia Brandeis.  Both students and teachers feel supported by her, and she always wants her students to do their very best.  Cynthia has gone above and beyond the call of duty by volunteering to assist virtual Geometry students during her planning period.  Not only does she want her students to master the state standards, but Cynthia is an advocate for students’ social and emotional well-being.  She also supports new teachers in and outside the classroom.  Both students and colleagues know that Cynthia is a trusted adult on campus to depend on, if needed.

Shannon Chapman has demonstrated his loyalty to Greenville County Schools through his 25 years of service (all at Oakview Elementary).  His humble service and willingness to perform tasks that others do not complete is extraordinary.  Shannon rarely misses a day of work and responds to any staff needs regardless of the request.  In addition to keeping the school sparkling clean, Shannon opens the building each day, moves furniture, carries out trash and has many times been “dumpster diving” to retrieve notebooks, orthodontic mouthpieces and hand-made Mother’s Day cards.  Shannon’s professional and kind manner is an example set for all faculty, staff, students and parents at Oakview.

Any time there is an instructional technology challenge at Hughes Academy, Sallisha Dendy-Jones comes to the rescue.  She is a professional problem-solver willing to do whatever it takes to ensure both teachers and students have what they need to instruct and learn.  Sallisha’s “can-do” attitude has improved the culture and climate at Hughes.  She ensures that the instructional staff have technology resources to support students, leads professional development, supports student learning and works closely with school leadership to constantly improve programs and practices.  Whenever Sallisha is given a task, the school administration has full confidence it will be done well!

No matter what Cindy Gerald has going on or how many tasks are on her “to-do” list, she will drop everything to come to the aid of a colleague. She is hardworking, funny, artistic and kind. She is a joy to work with every day. In addition to helping the media center run flawlessly, Cindy uses her creativity to construct costumes,  bulletin boards, hallway displays and murals to ensure the building is pleasing to all who enter. She is always looking for work to be done, always with a smile on her face. Cindy works hard and most importantly, loves her job and the people she works with!

Robin Patane’s energy is contagious! She makes every student, staff member and colleague feel welcome, respected and cared for. She knows every student who comes through the cafeteria line by name and attends theatrical performances and athletic events to support students. Robin is a true team-player – she is willing to come early and stay late if the cafeteria is short staffed, helps her colleagues complete their tasks and helps in training new cafeteria workers. Robin is truly a selfless servant who goes above and beyond for others, and the positive climate in the cafeteria at Riverside High is a direct reflection of her.

Melissa Patterson was an integral part of the achievement of Woodmont High for the 2021-22 school year. Along with the leadership team, she worked closely with teachers and students to focus on strategizing, coaching, and tutoring students for end-of-course exams. Melissa has significantly contributed to the development of teachers and achievement of students. She collaborates and fosters a teamwork approach to student achievement. Melissa values education and the success of Woodmont High. She works tirelessly to reach student academic goals. Because of her efforts, combined with other school leaders, Woodmont High had the largest growth in the district for end-of-course exams - Team Work makes the Dream Work!

“Exceptional” is the word that best describes Sharon Russo! She is a model teacher and encourages other staff members to grow in their profession. Sharon has worked for more than 20 years as a special education teacher for Greenville County Schools and continues to build high quality relationships with her students and their families. She is often the first teacher that her students’ families encounter and she understands the importance of building a strong and trusting relationship with them. By building relationships, she is able to create high quality, individualized education plans that meet the needs of her students.  Sharon is the perfect teacher for students to start their Greenville County Schools career because she loves, cares for, and wants what is best for each child in her class.

Meg Sakony is an integral part of the Transportation Department. She schedules trainings and then ensures that bus driver/aide trainings run smoothly, attends job fairs to recruit new bus drivers and assists every bus center with secretary training and support staff interviews. Meg “wears many hats” and, thanks to her cross-training, can fill in when other employees are absent. If a problem or challenge arises, Meg always helps find a solution. On the most hectic days, you will find Meg with a smile on her face asking, “How can I help?” She truly is Wonder Woman!

Since joining the staff in April, Debora VanderVeer has been able to help improve the overall support of both students and families in the surrounding Lakeview community. She does not “clock-in and out” but works outside her scheduled hours to ensure the needs of the Lakeview students are met. Lakeview Middle is proud to offer wraparound services to support students, and Debora is willing to do whatever is necessary to connect students and families with outside agencies.  She has connected families with dentists, medical physicians and numerous new outside services. Debora is a ray of sunshine who continues to positively touch the lives within Lakeview Middle.