GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) — Just before dismissal at Annie Jackson Elementary School, a surprise awaited students and staff in the gym. Tammy Van Ess had no idea she was about to be named the Wisconsin School Counselor of the Year. “Today was absolutely a surprise to me; it left me speechless," Van Ess said. "That’s not normal for me; I usually have a lot to say.” Packers join Bay-Lakes Council to celebrate generations of scouting The award, presented by the Wisconsin School Counselors Association, recognizes outstanding contributions to the field, with nominations made by colleagues, parents, and students. A wave of cheers and high-fives erupted at the school assembly when it was announced that Van Ess had won. “It was a surprise that brought tears to my eyes, but then I thought, ‘Put your game face on; this is kind of a big deal,’" she said. "So I did, and I focused on why I do what I do every day.” Van Ess never anticipated receiving recognition for her work, but the appreciation she felt is something she’ll never forget. “It’s not something I ever expected to receive in my life," she said. "You don’t go into a profession thinking, ‘Someday I’m going to win this or that.’ That’s not why I do what I do; I do it because I love it, and this is great.” Locker Room: Packers rookie Evan Williams joins the show to talk fast start in Green Bay What inspired her to enter the field 17 years ago? “Helping," she said. "That’s the number one reason I wanted to be a counselor: to make a difference in the world of our youth.”