SSC Services for Education

Navigating the Challenges of School Floor Care - Coulter Sims

School floors take a beating, and keeping them clean and safe is no easy task.

Coulter Sims, regional director of operations with SSC Services for Education, recently shared his expert insights in CMM Magazine on how to overcome the unique challenges of school floor care, from summer deep cleans to managing daily wear and tear.

If you’re in K–12 or higher education facilities management, this is a must-read.

Read the full article: https://www.cmmagazine.cmmonline.com/cmm-mayjune-digital-issue/page-38

#FacilitiesManagement #EducationSupport #FloorCare #SchoolCustodial #SSCServicesForEducation

Floor Care Challenges - Cindy Espinosa

Maintaining clean, safe, and durable floors is no easy task for facilities professionals—but it’s essential to keeping spaces looking their best. From managing different flooring types to dealing with heavy foot traffic, there are plenty of challenges to tackle.

In a recent article, SSC Resident Regional Manager Cindy Espinosa dives into the top floor care challenges and shares essential best practices that can make a world of difference. Whether you're dealing with high-traffic areas or delicate materials, these insights will help you elevate your floor care game.

Check it out here: https://facilitiesmanagementadvisor.blr.com/flooring/top-floor-care-challenges-and-best-practices-for-professionals/

#SSCServicesforEducation #FloorCare #CustodialServices

Cleaning Equipment for Custodial Services - John Lane

There is far more to custodial services than just a mop, bucket, broom, and dustpan. To run an effective and efficient program for large facilities, custodial service providers must invest in the right equipment. John Lane, SSC's Vice President of Facility Systems & Support, breaks down classic tools of the trade in a recent article published by Facility Executive.

Read it now: https://facilityexecutive.com/cleaning-equipment-for-custodial-services/

#SSCServicesforEducation #CustodialServices

Smart Savings With Smart Irrigation

Sustainability and savings are rarely mentioned in the same breath, but smart irrigation practices offer a rare opportunity for both. SSC's VP of Grounds Management, Brandon Haley, breaks down how to make it happen in your grounds program in his article, featured in Turf Magazine.


Learn More: https://turfmagazine.com/smart-savings-with-smart-irrigation/

#SSCServicesforEducation

How to Get Rid of a Wasp's Nest Safely

Insects - sometimes we love them, sometimes we don't want them in our backyards. When wasps make their home in your space, it's understandable to want to get rid of them quickly.

Check out this article featuring tips from Grounds Manager Bryan Mcgee the next time you find yourself wondering what to do about the wasps in your yard.

#SSCServicesforEducation

https://www.housebeautiful.com/lifestyle/gardening/a61878070/how-to-get-rid-of-wasp-nest/

Snow + Ice Removal - Chris Metcalf, CMM Online

Welcome to snow and ice season! At our cold-weather accounts, we know that it is essential to have a plan in place for snow and ice removal well in advance of this season, to ensure students, faculty, staff and visitors can safely learn and work at our partner schools.

Grounds Project Manager Chris Metcalf gives an inside look into what it takes to prepare for winter, and provides his recommendations for the best tools and equipment in a recently published feature on CMM Online.

Read More: https://cmmonline.com/articles/freeze-out-your-competition-not-your-clients

Facility Executive: The Next Generation of Lawn Care

As an aging workforce begins to retire, many facilities professionals are taking a look at how to recruit the next generation of leaders. In grounds management, there are plenty of factors to draw in excited, innovative professionals - a focus on new technology, endless career paths, and an opportunity to lead the way in sustainable initiatives are just a few.

Grounds Project Manager Eric Harshman breaks down some of the best ways to tap into a new talent pool in his recent article in Facility Executive. Click here to read: https://facilityexecutive.com/next-generation-of-lawn-care-landscape-sports-field-management/

5 Facility Maintenance Tasks for School Safety

Facility maintenance is one of the quiet MVPs in keeping students and staff safe. From clean air vents to reliable fire extinguishers, it’s the behind-the-scenes work that really matters. Let’s make campus safety more than just a checklist🔍

Check out this article for 5 essential maintenance tasks every school should be tackling:https://facilitiesmanagementadvisor.com/maintenance-and-operations/5-facility-maintenance-tasks-for-school-safety/

#SSCServicesForEducation #SchoolSafety #FacilitiesManagement

School Safety Starts with…AC Vents? SSC’s Back-to-School Maintenance Checklist - SSC Services For Education

Safe, healthy facilities start with the basics. 🏫🛠️ A little proactive maintenance goes a long way in creating safe, efficient learning environments.

Explore SSC Services for Education's Facility Maintenance Checklist for practical steps that support healthier, more reliable environments: https://sscserv.com/news/ssc-back-to-school-maintenance-checklist/

Because every student and educator deserves a space that’s not just functional - but thriving.

#SchoolSafety #FacilitiesManagement
#SSCServicesForEducation

Common HVAC Missteps and Myths - Kevin Cassidy

Think you know HVAC? Think again.

Kevin Cassidy, maintenance project manager at SSC, joined other industry experts to share practical insights on the most common HVAC missteps and myths that cost organizations time, energy, and money.

From misunderstood maintenance practices to overlooked system details, this article in FacilitiesNet is a valuable read for anyone managing building systems or educational facilities.

🔧🌡️ Read more: https://www.facilitiesnet.com/hvac/article/Common-HVAC-Missteps-and-Myths--20578
#HVAC #FacilitiesManagement #EnergyEfficiency #EducationFacilities #SSCServicesForEducation

Smart, Low-Cost Moves That Maximize HVAC Lifespan - Kevin Cassidy

Ever wonder how to extend your HVAC system's life without breaking the budget?

In this FacilitiesNet article, Kevin Cassidy, maintenance project manager with SSC Services for Education, shares smart, low-cost strategies to boost HVAC performance and longevity -especially valuable for educational institutions working with tight budgets.

Check it out: https://www.facilitiesnet.com/hvac/article/Smart-Low-Cost-Moves-That-Maximize-HVAC-Lifespan--20579

#HVACMaintenance #FacilitiesManagement #EducationFacilities #PreventiveMaintenance #SSCServicesForEducation

AI in HVAC - Smarter Systems and Smoother Operations - Kevin Cassidy

AI is changing the HVAC game - and education facilities are taking note.

In this forward-looking article from FacilitiesNet, SSC Maintenance Project Manager Kevin Cassidy joined other industry experts to share share how artificial intelligence is transforming HVAC operations - from predictive maintenance to smarter energy use.

If you're exploring how tech can drive efficiency and reliability in facilities management, this is a must-read.

Read the article: https://www.facilitiesnet.com/hvac/article/AI-in-HVAC-Smarter-Systems-and-Smoother-Operations--20580

#HVACInnovation #AIinFacilities #SmartBuildings #EducationFacilities #SSCServicesForEducation

Manager in Training - Grounds Focused

🌟 Leadership isn’t built overnight - it’s nurtured through hands-on experience, guidance from great mentors, and opportunities to grow.

That’s the foundation of our Manager-in-Training program, which was recently spotlighted by the National Association of Landscape Professionals in “How I Do It: Crafting a Robust Manager-in-Training Program.”

We’re proud to invest in the next generation of leaders. Read more about our approach here: https://lnkd.in/eRWKCT5u

#LeadershipDevelopment #Education #GroundsManagement #SSCServicesforEducation

A People First Approach: Soft Skills in Facilities Management

In today’s fast-paced facilities world, technical know-how is only part of the equation. Leaders are realizing that success also depends on the ability to connect with, coach, and support their teams.

In Facility Executive, SSC Division President Val Emery highlights why soft skills like empathy, adaptability, and communication are just as critical as technical expertise. He emphasizes that these skills can be intentionally developed through mentorship, training, and consistent feedback.

Read More: https://facilityexecutive.com/a-people-first-approach-soft-skills-in-facilities-management

#SSCServicesforEducation #FacilitiesManagement #SoftSkills

Employee Appreciation – Peggy Cruse

Behind every clean classroom a custodian who makes it possible. 🧼✨

Custodial professionals are often the unsung heroes of our workplaces and public spaces. They keep our environments safe, sanitary, and functional—and they deserve more than just our thanks. They deserve respect, recognition, and opportunities to grow.

From Custodian Appreciation Days to leadership development and career advancement, showing gratitude isn’t just thoughtful—it’s essential to building strong, thriving organizations. In this article, SSC Human Resources Manager Peggy Cruse shares practical, impactful ways to appreciate your team and elevate custodial professionals as the valued experts they are:
https://www.cmmagazine-digital.com/publication/?i=842959&p=34&view=issueViewer

#CustodianAppreciation #FacilitiesManagement

Recruiting Women in Facilities

Facilities management continues to evolve and grow, and as it does, more women are stepping up to learn and lead in the industry. SSC HR Manager Maia Renshaw shares how HR teams are tackling the talent gap and creating more opportunities for women in facilities in a recent interview, now featured on FacilitiesNet.

Read Now: https://www.facilitiesnet.com/facilitiesmanagement/tip/How-to-Recruit-More-Women-to-Join-Facilities-Management--54641

#WorkforceDevelopment #WomenInFM
#SSCServicesforEducation

Jennifer Mitchell - Career Profile

Regional Director of Operations Jennifer Mitchell is leading by example—and opening doors for others. In this inspiring feature from FacilitiesNet, Jennifer shares her journey through the facilities management industry and her belief that more women deserve a seat at the table.

From breaking barriers to mentoring future leaders, Jennifer is helping to shape a more inclusive future in facilities leadership.

📖 Read her story here: https://www.facilitiesnet.com/facilitiesmanagement/article/Jennifer-Mitchell-Thinks-More-Women-Deserve-a-Seat-at-the-Table--20514

#WomenInLeadership #FacilitiesManagement #SSCServicesforEducation

Career Profile: Jennifer Friz

Jennifer Friz is remarkable - and her career journey hasn't just benefited her - she's made it a goal to elevate others as she grows. She's a great example of what it means to be people-oriented and a true testament to our culture at SSC!

https://facilityexecutive.com/fm-profile-keep-on-growing/?utm_source=linkedin&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=dlvr.it-linkedin_social

#SSCServicesforEducation

SSC Gives Back: Vogue Room & Clear the List

Back-to-school season was brighter than ever this year!🎉✏️

SSC Services for Education went beyond facility services to give students and teachers an extra boost:

📦 Donated $40,000+ in school supplies to over 100 classrooms at our partner schools
🏫 Partnered with the Vogue Room Foundation to transform dorm rooms into inspiring spaces for first-year college students
💪 Helped schools get their campuses safe, clean, and ready for a great year ahead

It’s all about supporting our communities and creating places where students can shine, grow and feel empowered 💙 Big thanks to all the amazing SSC associates who make this impact possible every single day!

Learn More: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ssc-services-for-education-supports-students-and-teachers-nationwide-through-expanded-back-to-school-initiatives-302557937

#SSCServicesforEducation #BackToSchool #CommunityImpact #EducationSupport #FacilitiesWithPurpose #SSCCares

Robert Harris Named South Carolina National High School Spirit of Sport Award Winner

We’re thrilled to celebrate Robert Harris, lead custodian at Westwood High School, who has been named South Carolina’s winner of the NFHS National High School Spirit of Sport Award! 🏆

Chosen from nominations across 249 schools, this honor was an incredible, well-deserved surprise for Robert. His selfless spirit, positive energy, and behind-the-scenes dedication make him a cornerstone of the Richland School District 2 community. Whether he’s supporting every home game or keeping facilities in top shape, he leads with heart and humility.

Even more exciting? Robert is now in the running for the national title!

Please join us in celebrating this well-deserved recognition and cheering Robert on for the national title!

#SpiritOfSport #EducationSupport #CustodianAppreciation #SSCServicesForEducation #RichlandTwo

SSC Team at Navarro Elementary School

Let’s hear it for Elvira, Rosario, and Irina - the incredible SSC custodial team at Navarro Elementary School in Lockhart ISD! 👏

These three are the heart of the school’s clean, safe, and welcoming environment. From keeping every space spotless to responding quickly and kindly to every need, their dedication shines through in everything they do.

They lead with professionalism, positivity, and pride - always in uniform, always safety-first, and always setting the standard for what top-tier custodial service looks like.

Thank you, Elvira, Rosario, and Irina, for representing SSC with such integrity and heart. Navarro Elementary is a better place because of you! 💙✨

#CustodialExcellence #LockhartISD #SchoolSupportHeroes #SSCServicesForEducation

People's Choice Award - Coulter Sims

One of the most inspiring moments from our SSC annual meeting this summer was celebrating incredible individuals who goes above and beyond in every way.

Congratulations to Coulter Sims, one of four People’s Choice Award winners in the the K–12 Division! 🌟

Coulter embodies the culture we are proud of so well, but what really sets him apart is how he treats others. When a new associate arrived at work wearing two worn-out left shoes, Coulter didn’t hesitate. He quietly bought them a new pair - no fanfare, just a simple act of kindness that speaks volumes about the kind of leader he is.

This wasn't an isolated occurrence - Coulter consistently goes above and beyond, often behind the scenes. He’s thoughtful, dependable, and always ready to support others.

Well done, Coulter—you earned it. 👏

#SSCServicesforEducation #PeopleFirst #LeadershipInAction #Recognition

People's Choice Awards - Jeremy Harbin

I was incredibly proud to see Jeremy Harbin recognized as a People’s Choice Award winner for SSC's K–12 Division at our annual meeting this summer! 👏

Jeremy has truly grown into his leadership role through dedication, consistency, and a clear focus on supporting others. As an RDO, he’s become a go-to resource - helping managers strengthen their teams and ensuring accounts are set up for long-term success. His regular site visits and hands-on involvement reflect his commitment to doing the work and doing it well.

Colleagues often describe working with Jeremy as one of the smoothest and most collaborative experiences they’ve had. His organization, communication, and grounded leadership have set a strong example of what partnership and accountability look like in action.

Congratulations, Jeremy - and thank you for the impact you make across the SSC community!

#SSCServicesforEducation #PeopleFirst #LeadershipInAction #Recognition

People's Choice Awards - Jonathan Higgerson

When leadership is rooted in consistency, accountability, and care - it shows.

That’s why it was such a proud moment at our SSC Annual Meeting this summer to see Jonathan Higgerson recognized as one of this year’s People’s Choice Award winners for the K–12 Division! 🙌

Jonathan’s journey from supervisor to manager is a true example of leading from the front. He doesn’t just oversee the work... he’s in it, side by side with his team, ensuring clients are supported, problems are solved, and nothing gets left undone.

What sets him apart is more than just his work ethic - it’s the way he builds up those around him. He shares knowledge, supports his team, and creates an environment where people feel confident, capable, and heard.

As one colleague put it best: “A leader worthy of recognition.”

Well said - and well deserved. Congrats, Jonathan!

#SSCServicesforEducation #PeopleFirst #LeadershipInAction #Recognition

Marana Cereal Drive

Supporting the communities we serve is at the heart of what we do. Recently, SSC Unit Director James Dickey conducted a site visit at Marana Unified School District, where he toured the campus alongside school social worker Krysti Hesse. During their walkthrough, they connected with the dedicated team at the Marana Family Resource Center, gaining insight into the vital support they provide to students and families.

The Center offers essential services, including a food & clothing bank for families in the district and community. The food bank is stocked solely through community donations and grants.

Krysti and James quickly noticed some bare shelves in the food bank. Recognizing the immediate need, James took action - thinking first of the most important meal of the day - breakfast. SSC partnered with the district to run a cereal drive, rallying the team to make a difference. The results were incredible—308 boxes of cereal collected—providing 3,696 breakfasts for students and families in need.

Way to go, SSC Marana team! Your dedication is making a real impact! #SSCServicesforEducation #CommunityImpact

TAMU Awards - Andrea Cortez

Each year, the SSC team at Texas A&M comes together to celebrate the dedicated custodial team members who keep our partnership strong.

With support from the Aggie Student Government and Fish Aides Service Committee, a special lunch banquet honors the hard work and impact of this incredible team—and recognizes those who go above and beyond.

This year, we were proud to present Andrea Cortez with the Shining Star Award, recognizing her exceptional commitment and excellence. Andrea began her journey at Texas A&M in 1970 and joined SSC in 2012. After nearly 55 years of dedicated service, she is now retiring.

Please join us in celebrating Andrea’s remarkable career and wishing her all the best in this well-earned next chapter! 💫

#SSCServicesForEducation #TexasAM #Aggies #CustodialExcellence

TAMU Awards - Maria Guillen

Each year, the SSC team at Texas A&M takes time to honor the custodial staff whose dedication keeps our partnership thriving.

The Aggie Student Government and Fish Aides Service Committee generously host a special awards banquet to celebrate the team's hard work and recognize individuals who go above and beyond.

One of the most meaningful honors presented at the banquet is the Aggie Spirit Award, given to an SSC team member who truly lives out the Aggie Spirit—bringing positivity, kindness, and pride to their work every day.

This year’s recipient was Maria Guillen, who has been part of the Texas A&M community since 1998 and joined SSC in 2012. Known for her friendly nature and dedication, Maria greets everyone with a smile and approaches her work with excellence and care.

Congratulations, Maria, and thank you for being such a shining example of the Aggie Spirit!
#SSCServicesforEducation #TexasAM #Aggies

TAMU Awards - Paula

Each year, the Aggie Student Government and Fish Aides host an awards banquet to celebrate the SSC custodial team at Texas A&M—a meaningful tradition that honors their hard work and the individuals who go above and beyond.

One of the awards presented by SSC supervisors during this banquet is the Team Player Award, recognizing someone who consistently supports their co-workers. This year’s recipient was Paula Salazar, a true example of teamwork in action.

Since joining Texas A&M in July 1990, Paula has spent 35 years showing dedication, pride in her work, and a team-first attitude. She’s trained colleagues in floor care, supported multiple crews (including athletics), and helps maintain the Chancellor’s residence.

Congratulations, Paula, and thank you for your lasting impact and incredible service!

TAMU Awards - Rita Leon

As part of our annual celebration hosted by the Aggie Student Government and Fish Aides at Texas A&M University, SSC Supervisors take time to recognize custodial team members at who go above and beyond in their service to campus.

One of the special honors presented each year is the 12th Man Award, which celebrates an employee who exemplifies selfless service. This year, we’re proud to spotlight Rita Leon for her unwavering dedication and impact.

Rita has been with Custodial TAMU since April 19, 1999 and SSC since 2012 - an incredible 26 years of service. Under the leadership of Madlene Maxwell, she’s become a fixture in the JK Williams Building, where both her team and building occupants truly value her presence. In fact, no one wants her reassigned—because her commitment, consistency, and heart have made her irreplaceable.

Congratulations, Rita, and thank you for living out the spirit of the 12th Man every single day!

#12thManAward #TexasAM #SSCServicesForEducation #CustodialExcellence

People's Choice - Dewanna Martin

You don’t earn a nickname like “the queen of safety” without making a serious impact - and Dewanna Martin has done just that.

Recognized at this year’s SSC annual meeting as a People’s Choice Award winner for the Higher Education Division, Dewanna has redefined what it means to lead with purpose, heart, and consistency.

At Prairie View A&M, she’s turned safety into more than a requirement. At PVAMU, safety is a culture built on care. Her energy is contagious, her positivity unwavering, and her commitment deeply personal. Every safety moment she leads carries one clear belief: everyone deserves to go home safe, every single day.

In 13 years - rising from an A&M system employee to a standout SSC leader - she’s taken on every challenge with a smile, stepped up wherever needed, and built a team that shows up with pride and purpose.

Dewanna, thank you for leading with heart and making everyone around you better.

#SSCServicesforEducation #PeoplesChoice #EmployeeRecognition