MADISON – Yesy Gonzales, who has worked at James Clemens High School since it opened in 2012, has been selected as the 2019 “Staff Member of the Year.”

“I have worked for Madison City Schools for 13 years total. I started at Horizon elementary and then moved to Mill Creek Elementary School before starting at James Clemens,” Gonzales said.

Gonzales has lived in Madison for more than 30 years. “I moved here with family,” she said.

“I individually volunteer when there is a need. I am always available to help a student, teacher or anyone in the community,” Gonzales said.

At James Clemens, Gonzales works with some of the students who have special needs. “I help them learn practical daily living skills, and they teach me to always be happy and helpful,” she said. “Every time I see them, they make me smile. I feel lucky to be able to work with them daily.”

“My husband is a general building contractor. I have three older children and four grandchildren,” Gonzales said.

“I like interior decorating. In my free time, I like to go to thrift stores and find hidden treasure,” Gonzales said. “I also enjoy trying new foods and restaurants.”

Away from work, Gonzales likes to take time for dancing and listening to music.

Each spring, co-workers nominate and vote for a colleague as Teacher of the Year and Staff Member of the Year at each school in the Madison City Schools district. The Central Office staff and Transportation Department employees also select a Staff Member of the Year.

Each recipient of the award for Teacher of the Year and Staff Member of the Year receives a $500 award.