“”LA CROSSE, Wis., (May 17, 2021) – The Wisconsin Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a Department of Defense office, awarded School District of La Crosse human resources director Mark White with a Patriot Award in recognition of his extraordinary support of district staff member, Sgt. James Skaleski, as Sgt. Skaleski served in the Army National Guard.
“The Patriot Award was created by ESGR to publicly recognize individuals who provide outstanding patriotic support and cooperation to their employees who have answered their nation’s call to serve,” said Wisconsin ESGR state chair Scott Legwold. “Mr. White was nominated for being highly supportive of the Army National Guard. Supportive supervisors are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the nation’s Guard and reserve units.”
“Mr. White went above and beyond for me in the past two years,” said Sgt. Skaleski. “He and the district have been very supportive and flexible when I was placed on COVID-19 active duty response orders. That flexibility allowed me to teach virtually when I was able, while also providing a substitute on days I was unavailable due to being on mission. They were willing to work it out so I could stay engaged with my students when I was able, and I am very grateful for that opportunity.”
ESGR facilitates and promotes a cooperative culture of employer support for National Guard and Reserve service by developing and advocating mutually beneficial initiatives, recognizing outstanding employer support, increasing awareness of applicable laws and policies, resolving potential conflicts between employers and their service members, and acting as the employer’s principal advocate within DoD. Paramount to ESGR’s mission is encouraging employment of Guardsmen and reservists who bring integrity, global perspective, and proven leadership to the civilian workforce.
“The district values our military personnel and the needs of the country and this was just one way for us to do that,” said district human resources director Mark White. “Supporting Jim and what he needs to do to serve the Army National Guard is important. We appreciate the recognition but this is what we gladly do every day to best support our staff.”
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