Top staffer honor at James Clemens goes to Kayla Crum

MADISON – Kayla Crum is one of those rare people who you don’t meet very often. She likes her job and looks forward to coming to work.

The faculty members, the staff and the administrators at James Clemens High School voted for Crum as “Staff Member of the Year” for 2025.

“I have truly enjoyed my time at James Clemens and could not think of a better place to be!” Crum said.

“For me, I truly enjoy going to work daily. I love the students and could not have picked a better team to work for or with,” Crum said. “Being around those that support you, motivate you, and truly want what’s best for you, makes it easy to enjoy my job.”

“As the receptionist, I view my position as the ‘first impressionist’ of James Clemens High School. Part of my job is to ensure that all safety measures are taken; therefore, sticking to rules is a must,” Crum said.

“I want all students, faculty and staff to feel welcome and safe!” she said.

Crum also has another rare distinction: she is originally from Madison and didn’t move here for a high-tech job or other job or position. “Madison is where I grew up, and I graduated from Bob Jones High School in 2008,” she said.

“Shortly after that, I went to Calhoun Community College, and then I attended Athens State University, where I received my bachelor’s degree in elementary education,” Crum said.

Crum completed the requirements for student teaching at Columbia Elementary School. “Then I worked as a substitute teacher there until I joined the staff at James Clemens as the permanent substitute,” she said. Crum worked in that capacity for two years.

In 2020, Crum accepted the position of receptionist at James Clemens. “I have currently been in that position for six years,” she said.

Crum reached a total of nine years of service in August 2025.

“When I am not working, I love to thrift (shop), do-it-yourself (DIY) projects, travel and spending time with family and friends,” Crum said.