Ellenburg named ‘Staff Member of the Year’ at Columbia

MADISON – Columbia Elementary School’s faculty and staff have selected Melanie Ellenburg as “Staff Member of the Year” for 2024.

Working as a Technology Assistant, Ellenburg realizes that every person has a different level of knowledge about technology. “I try to meet everyone where they are with patience and grace,” she said.

“Teachers and staff have so many responsibilities, and many do not have the time to troubleshoot when their technology does not work as expected,” Ellenburg said. “Before I walk into a classroom or office, I remind myself that my actions will help lessen a little of their responsibilities.”

Before working for Madison City Schools, Ellenburg stayed home to care for the family’s young children. In January 2017, she started working for MCS as a Technology Assistant, the job she still has currently.

Ellenburg worked at Heritage Elementary School from January to May in 2017. In August that year, she moved to Columbia Elementary School and continues to work there today.

One instance of personal success for Ellenburg occurred in recent months when she ensured every student at Columbia has an MCS-issued Chromebook.

“I grew up in Charleston, S.C., and I graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Clemson University. Go Tigers!” Ellenburg said.

Her husband Jason Ellenburg works as an electrical engineer at Aviation Missile Solutions. Their children are Zachary, junior at James Clemens High School; Claire, freshman at James Clemens; and Piper and Sophie, who are twins in seventh grade at Liberty Middle School.

In her free time, Melanie enjoys crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles and playing board games. She likes to take walks and go on hiking trips. “I also enjoy listening to audio books,” she said.

Melanie is an avid fan of the James Clemens Jets and supports their Esports team and the James Clemens Band. She also is proud of the Liberty Lions, specifically the Liberty Middle School Band and productions by Liberty Theatre Department.