(BPT) - The enduring wisdom of the African proverb, "It takes a village to raise a child," resonates across cultures, underscoring our collective responsibility toward nurturing the academic, social, and emotional development of our future leaders. In alignment with this timeless ethos, Teacher Appreciation Week serves as an ideal occasion to honor not only our teachers but also the often overlooked yet indispensable members of our children's educational community. These unsung heroes, particularly substitute educators, provide crucial continuity and foster an environment of support and positivity, making them essential pillars in the comprehensive upbringing of our youth.

Kelly Education, the leading provider of education workforce solutions in the nation, proudly upholds a tradition of celebrating these anchors of operational stability through its annual Substitute Educator of the Year Award. This prestigious honor is extended to substitute teachers and school support staff who have made significant contributions to their school communities. Eligibility requires active employment with Kelly Education and a nomination from a school colleague that highlights the nominee's positive impact on both students and peers. Winners of the award are recognized with a $5,000 bonus, in addition to a $1,500 donation to the school of their choice, reinforcing Kelly Education's commitment to acknowledging the invaluable role of substitute educators in shaping future generations.

"One of my greatest joys is celebrating the work of our educators," said Kelly Education President Nicola Soares. "These educators are extra special because they were nominated by their school partners for the positive impact they've had on their school community."

Here are this year's winners, who are changing students' lives, one classroom at a time.

Jane Abrams, K-12 Substitute Teacher, of Aventura, Florida, found a way to recover from heartbreaking losses by returning to the field she loved, becoming a substitute educator. Her experience at Fulford Elementary has given her a whole new family.

"All of the teachers and staff welcomed me with open arms," said Abrams. "This is a workplace of respect and congeniality - and the children filled my heart back up with joy and love."

Abrams appreciates how Kelly Education gives her the freedom to work around her schedule, as well as providing insurance and perks like retail bargains and other incentives. She advises substitute educators to be positive, listen to what the other teachers have to say, and ask questions: "Leave a detailed account of what you accomplished or didn't accomplish during the day, and remember - a teacher can change the world."

Megan Mabry, Non-Instructional Substitute Educator, from Cabot, Arkansas, grew interested in education from her role as a mother. After earning her bachelor's degree in business management and working for the U.S. Postal Service, Mabry wanted more involvement with her children's education and better work-life balance. This led her to the flexible opportunity of becoming a Kelly Education substitute educator. She appreciates the long-term opportunities that can become permanent positions within a school district.

Mabry enjoys working in the student success center, where she interacts with all the students, encouraging them academically and helping build their self-confidence.

"One student who came in was working hard to keep her grades up all year," said Mabry. "She visited recently to share that she's achieving her goals of graduating and joining the Army National Guard this year and thanked me for all the encouragement."

Saira Zamarripa, Early Childhood Substitute Educator, from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, became a substitute educator after earning her bachelor's degree in science from Southern Nazarene University. She is currently enjoying a long-term temporary position at Arthur Elementary School, where they recognized her with their "Caught You Being Good" award, which made her feel like an important part of the school community.

"What I like most about being a substitute teacher are the relationships I've built with students," said Zamarripa. "I like that I can bring a little happiness into their lives because you never know what they're dealing with away from school."

Zamarripa appreciates the flexibility and responsiveness of Kelly Education staff and her relationships with school teachers and administrators.

Lucille Zeigler, Paraeducator, of Pelham, Alabama, attended Lawson State Community College before becoming a substitute teacher at Berry Middle School.

"What I love most about being a substitute teacher is the enthusiasm of the students who want to learn more and more," said Zeigler. "I love to see the faces of students as they learn."

She remembers an influential teacher in her life - her sixth-grade teacher, who helped her learn math to avoid embarrassment at the chalkboard. She reminds substitute educators to be patient, kind and good listeners.

"Don't forget that you are there to help the classroom teacher," Zeigler advised. "And it's important to love what you do."

Learn more about this year's award winners at kellyeducation.com. Interested in substitute teaching opportunities near you? Visit mykelly.com.