Schuylerville Central School District Transportation Supervisor Chuck Barss was recognized by the U.S. Department of Defense with the Patriotic Employer Award, presented through the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) program. The distinction honors employers who show exceptional support for employees serving in the National Guard and Reserve. Barss was nominated by Erin Bryant, a Schuylerville Class of 2018 graduate and former bus driver, who is currently a crew chief for LC-130H and C-130H aircraft in the Air National Guard.
Bryant said she nominated Barss for his outstanding encouragement and understanding as she pursued her goal of joining the military — a journey he supported long before she ever left for training.
“Chuck understood that I wasn’t going to be there forever — that the military was my goal — but he still took the time to train me, employ me, and encourage me,” said Bryant. “He listened to me talk about joining for months and was genuinely excited for me.”
When Bryant left for basic military training, Barss stayed in contact with Bryant’s family, regularly checking in with her mother, a retired Schuylerville bus driver. He also ensured Bryant had a place to return to when her training ended.
“He kept me as a substitute driver so I would have a job waiting if I didn’t go on active duty orders,” Bryant explained. “When I was activated for a DOCCS mission, he texted to make sure I was doing okay. That meant a lot.”
Bryant credits Barss for helping her take her first steps toward a military career — both by helping her earn her CDL Class B license and by giving her valuable mechanical training.
“Because of the CDL training Chuck helped me get, I was able to support my mission by driving transportation for airmen and soldiers to bring them home for a couple weeks,” she said. “He also gave me some mechanical background that helped me excel in my current career field.”
The Patriotic Employer Award recognizes Barss and the Schuylerville Central School Transportation Department for their ongoing commitment to supporting employees who serve. The accompanying Statement of Support for the Guard and Reserve, signed by the Department of Defense, reaffirms the district’s pledge to uphold the rights and well-being of service members, veterans, and their families.
“Overall, Chuck went above and beyond as a boss to make sure I was taken care of while serving our country,” said Bryant. “He truly deserves this recognition.”
Barss will be recognized by the Board of Education during its Oct. 20th meeting.