SSC Services for Education

Working 6 to 2 - Joe Coleman

Cleaning doesn’t stop when the sun goes down - and neither do the dedicated facilities teams who get schools ready for a new day. 🌙✨

Regional Director of Operations Joe Coleman was recently featured in Cleaning & Maintenance Management (CMM) magazine, sharing his perspective on the unique challenges faced by night-shift cleaning professionals and the importance of prioritizing safety, teamwork, and well-being.

📰 Read the full article, “Working 6 to 2,” in the latest issue of CMM: https://www.cmmagazine-digital.com/publication/?i=854788&p=42&view=issueViewer

#FacilitiesManagement #NightShift #CustodialServices #SSCServicesforEducation

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/

Building Services Management November 2025 Page 26

The best way to protect students and staff is to prevent problems before they start.

In Building Services Management’s November issue, SSC's Marshall Darnell shares how proactive facility maintenance strengthens campus safety by identifying risks early and keeping learning environments running smoothly.

Learn more and read “How Proactive Facility Maintenance Improves Campus Safety” here:
https://bsmmag.mydigitalpublication.com/november-2025/page-26

#SSCServicesforEducation #FacilitiesManagement #Maintenance

How Proactive Facility Maintenance Improves Campus Safety - Marshall Darnell

Maintaining campus safety isn’t just about locks and alarms - it’s about the foundation beneath them. A proactive maintenance strategy for HVAC systems, fire safety equipment, structural integrity and mechanical operations protects every person on campus. At SSC Services for Education, we know that when facilities run reliably, students can focus on learning - not disruptions.

🔗 Read the full article: https://www.campussafetymagazine.com/insights/how-proactive-facility-maintenance-improves-campus-safety/174137/

#SSCServicesforEducation #FacilitiesManagement #Maintenance

Preparing School Heating Systems Before Winter Hits - Doug Kessler

Before temperatures drop, facilities teams are already working behind the scenes to ensure heating systems run smoothly all winter.

From preventive maintenance to system testing, every step protects both efficiency and the student experience.

Learn how preparation today keeps classrooms warm and learning uninterrupted: https://facilityexecutive.com/preparing-school-heating-systems-before-winter-hits
#SSCServicesforEducation #FacilitiesManagement #Maintenance

Quality Assurance: A Partner in Teaching and Growth for Facilities Management - Facilities Management Advisor - Kevin Cassidy

Behind every great learning environment is a team committed to excellence. Through quality assurance, we don’t just maintain spaces - we grow people, build skills, and create places where students can shine. ✨

Discover how QA supports teaching, teamwork, and long-term growth across facilities operations.
🔗https://facilitiesmanagementadvisor.com/maintenance-and-operations/quality-assurance-a-partner-in-teaching-and-growth-for-facilities-management/

#FacilitiesLeadership #SSCServicesforEducation #QualityAssurance #FacilitiesManagement #Maintenance

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

Yvette Garner recognized as New Kent Middle School Support Person of the Year

Yvette Garner, Lead Custodian at New Kent Middle School, was recently recognized as the school’s Support Person of the Year. During a special surprise on April 9, Superintendent Brian Nichols, along with district and school staff, presented Yvette with flowers and heartfelt appreciation for her dedication and outstanding service.

Yvette is well known for her reliability, attention to detail, and positive attitude, She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure the school environment is clean, welcoming, and ready for students and staff alike.

Colleagues describe Yvette as a natural leader who sets the standard for excellence. She is quick to respond in urgent situations, supports and trains new team members, and often takes on additional responsibilities to keep the school running smoothly. Despite balancing significant personal responsibilities at home, her commitment never wavers.

Yvette consistently shows pride, leadership, and heart in her role. She is an asset to the SSC team, and a valued part of the New Kent County community. Congratulations, Yvette, and thank you for all that you do!

#SSCServicesforEducation #Partnership #EmployeeRecognition

Art Celebrates 90th Birthday at MUSD

Arthur “Art” Alcoser, a 33-year U.S. Navy veteran, celebrated his 90th birthday surrounded by the community he serves every day with SSC Services for Education at Marana USD. The surprise, organized by Principal David Dooley, Associate Principal Sydnee Pierpont, and members of the school staff, brought so much joy to Art, as students sang “Happy Birthday” and shared heartfelt, handmade cards.

When asked what keeps him going, Art shared a simple but powerful mindset shaped by his time in the Navy: keep moving, stay active, and always give 100% so others can count on you.

90 years of life. A legacy of service. And a daily reminder of what it means to show up for others. Happy Birthday, Art! 🎉

#SSCServicesforEducation #EmployeeRecognition

Eleuterio Gonzalez recognized at Myers Middle School

Before the first bell rings and long after the halls quiet down, Eleuterio Gonzalez is already making a difference where it matters most.

Eleuterio, Lead Custodian with SSC Services for Education at Denton ISD, was recently recognized by the school’s principal during a staff meeting for his exceptional dedication and unwavering support.

Known for his strong work ethic and positive attitude, Eleuterio has become a trusted and valued presence on campus. He consistently goes above and beyond his normal duties to ensure the school runs smoothly.

Eleutrerio represents the values we are proud of at SSC, and the respect and appreciation he has earned from both staff and students in the district shows the impactful difference he makes on the Myers Middle School community.

#SSCServicesforEducation #EmployeeRecognition

Dilene Dauzat honored with the good neighbor award

Big hearts make a big difference, and Dilene Dauzat brings hers to Beebe School District every single day. As a Day Porter, Dilene plays an important role in creating a space where students feel safe, supported, and right at home. Her impact hasn’t gone unnoticed. She was recently recognized with a Beebe Schools Good Neighbor Award!

Nominated by peers and families, Good Neighbor Award recipients are known for the way they show up each day with compassion, consistency, and a genuine commitment to student well-being. Dilene’s steady presence and caring approach help shape a positive environment for everyone who walks through the doors. Congratulations, Dilene, on this well-deserved recognition!

#SSCServicesforEducation

Cereal Drive at Marana USD

The SSC team at Marana Unified School District hosted their 2nd Annual Cereal Drive this February in support of students and families across the district, and the results were truly incredible.

What started with a goal of collecting 300 boxes quickly turned into something much bigger. Thanks to the generosity of our frontline custodial teams, 700 boxes of cereal were collected, providing approximately 6,420 servings of breakfast for students and families.

This effort was led by Unit Director James Dickey, whose leadership helped rally teams across the district. What makes this moment truly meaningful is the heart behind it. Many of our team members contributed from their own pockets because they care deeply about the students and communities they serve. All donations will go to the MUSD Family Resource Center, where they will be distributed to students and families throughout the district.

When people come together with a shared purpose, incredible things happen. Because of this team, hundreds of students will start their day nourished, ready to learn, and set up for success.

#SSCServicesforEducation #CommunityImpact #SSCCares

Mount Pleasant ISD

At Mount Pleasant ISD, Unit Director Celinda Cunningham recently hosted a special Employee Spotlight Luncheon to recognize SSC Services for Education team members who have been acknowledged by their principals and teachers for consistently going above and beyond their everyday responsibilities.

Whether preparing for a state audit or routinely ensuring doors are secured and campuses are safe, these associates demonstrate professionalism that helps create a caring, clean environment for students and staff. Their attention to detail, reliability, and heart for service make a meaningful impact across the entire district.  

One recognition shared during the luncheon beautifully captures that spirit:

“I love Ms. Rose because she’s solid as a rock and she loves Vivian Fowler’s students and staff. It’s evident in her work ethic and gentle kindness.”

​— Vanessa McGee, SPED Teacher

Thank you to Celinda for celebrating excellence, and thank you to our Mount Pleasant ISD team members who show up each day ready to support student success.

#SSCServicesforEducation #EmployeeRecognition

A Shared Compass: The Labombarda Father-Son Story - SSC Services For Education

Some values are taught through words. Others are passed down through everyday example.

For Chef Joe Labombarda and his son John, their careers may look different, but the foundation is the same: hard work, humility, accountability and a commitment to serving others well.

Joe has spent decades leading culinary teams across Chartwells Higher Education, while John is building his own path through SSC’s Manager in Training program at Texas A&M. Though their roles are different, both understand that meaningful work happens behind the scenes, through consistency, mentorship and care for the people around you.

At SSC, we’re grateful for associates who not only lead by example, but help shape the next generation through patience, support and shared purpose. 👏

#SSCServicesforEducation

https://sscserv.com/news/a-shared-compass-the-labombarda-father-son-story/

Dewanna Martin honored by PVAMU

Prairie View A&M University Northwest Houston Center recently celebrated Women’s History Month with its inaugural “Honoring Our Own: Excellence in Service” event on March 31. It was an occasion dedicated to recognizing individuals whose contributions uplift their community and inspire progress. Among the honorees was SSC Facilities Director Dewanna Martin, whose story is deeply rooted in Prairie View A&M’s legacy and mission.

Born and raised in Texas, Dewanna’s connection to the university began long before her career. She grew up on campus while her mother dedicated more than three decades of service to PVAMU. That early exposure sparked a lifelong passion for higher education and Prairie View A&M.

Dewanna steadily advanced in her facilities career, starting as a custodian while pursuing higher education and eventually landing in her current role as facilities director. Her journey reflects resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to growth both personally and professionally.

As shared by Northwest Houston Center Director Kamala Williams, Dewanna continues to “pave the way for future generations of women leaders, scholars, and change makers,” making a a lasting impact that extends far beyond the campus she has long called home.

#SSCServicesforEducation #Recognition #WomensHistoryMonth

A Shared Compass: The Labombarda Father-Son Story - SSC Services For Education

The values we carry don’t stop at titles, roles, or even generations.

In the Labombarda family, those values show up in different ways, whether it’s leading culinary teams or keeping campuses running behind the scenes. But the foundation is the same: care, accountability, and pride in the work.

Stories like this are a powerful reminder that across Compass Group, we’re connected by something bigger.

SSC and Chartwells Higher Education are better together. When we align our strengths, we create stronger experiences for the students and communities we serve.

https://sscserv.com/news/a-shared-compass-the-labombarda-father-son-story/

Reframing Athletic Facilities as Strategic Assets in the Modern Era of College Sports - SSC Services For Education

For years, athletic facilities were seen as something to maintain. Today, they’re something much more.

From athlete performance to recruiting, safety, and overall campus perception, facilities now influence nearly every outcome in college athletics.

The shift isn’t just operational. It’s strategic.

When institutions move from reactive maintenance to proactive, data-informed planning, they create environments that support consistency, performance, and long-term success.

Read more to learn about how the role of athletic facilities is evolving.

https://sscserv.com/news/reframing-athletic-facilities-as-strategic-assets-in-the-modern-era-of-college-sports/