Milton Elementary employees feted

The Cape Henlopen school board recognized Milton Elementary employees Joseph Austin and Patsy Wells as the GEM Award winners for Going the Extra Mile in January. 

Board Vice President Julie Derrick said Austin goes above his job responsibilities as a custodian at MES. Most recently, she said, Austin helped a student with a lost hair scrunchie. 

“Joe went out of his way to purchase new hair ties for the student just to make her feel better,” Derrick said.

Austin has also stepped up to help the chief custodian while a colleague was out, Derrick said. 

“He is a true marigold and helped the building level up their game this year,” she said. 

Wells is one of the most reliable substitutes, Derrick said. 

“She goes out of her way to ensure she knows all the students and staff in the building,” Derrick said. “Mrs. Wells is always flexible and willing to help wherever and whenever.”

Wells is even known to use her break time to help in other classrooms, at recess and lunch areas, Derrick said, noting that Wells is a part of the MES family, and she levels up the team.