Employee of the Month (September 2006)

School Treasurer Named Employee of the Month

Mary Ensley has been the “go to” person at Penn-Griffin School for the Arts for the past 13 years. A proud graduate of the school, Ensley came back to serve her alma mater as treasurer even before the school became a magnet, and was instrumental in Penn-Griffin’s transition from a traditional middle school to a performing arts school.

Ensley’s job involves maintaining the funds, which are crucial to providing services at this Title I school. Aside from her normal duties, Ensley loves dealing directly with students; working with those who have trouble in school or lending a motherly ear to those who need her guidance.

Her commitment to Penn-Griffin goes beyond the walls of the school. Ensley leads the school’s efforts in keeping the campus clean and organizes the effort to keep tidy the stretch of Washington Drive, which was “adopted” by the school.

“She never misses a chance to support the students or help her colleagues,” said Erica L. Davis, a co-worker who nominated Ensley for the Employee of the Month program. “Whatever needs to happen, she’s willing to step up and do it.”

GCS and Sam’s Club have stepped up to honor this woman who has given so much to her school. In a ceremony in front of Penn-Griffin faculty and students, Ensley was named GCS’ Employee of the Month for September 2006.

As Employee of the Month, Ensley received a $50 gift card from Sam’s Club, which has partnered with GCS to support the employee recognition program. In addition, the Guilford County Board of Education will recognize Ensley at its September 12 meeting.

Guilford County Schools is the third largest school district in North Carolina serving more than 70,000 students at 116 schools. With approximately 10,000 employees, the district’s mission is to graduate responsible citizens who are college/work ready.

Guilford County Schools is a national leader in providing specialized schools and instructional programs designed to meet the educational needs of a culturally diverse citizenship.  For more information, visit the district’s Web site at www.gcsnc.com.