Gray well liked at Madison Elementary School as Staff Member of the Year
MADISON – At Madison Elementary School, David Gray rarely, if ever, receives the spotlight, but let a problem with the plumbing or air conditioning arise, and he becomes the most indispensable person on campus.
The faculty and staff at Madison Elementary have selected Gray as the “2026 Staff Member of the Year.” He works as Plant Manager.
Administrators at Madison Elementary complimented Gray in announcing his award: “Congratulations to Madison Elementary’s Staff Member of the Year, Mr. David Gray. As our incredible Plant Manager, Mr. Gray goes above and beyond every day to keep Madison running smoothly and looking its best.”
“Mr. Gray works tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure our students and staff have a safe and welcoming school environment. His dedication and hard work to Madison Elementary does not go unnoticed! We are so thankful for all he does for our school community,” the announcement stated. “Thank you, Mr. Gray, for being such an important part of the Madison Elementary family.”
“When I found out that I was named Staff Member of the Year, I was grateful and humbled that the teachers and staff thought I deserved the title,” Gray said. In Madison City Schools, all campuses nominate and select “Teacher of the Year” and “Staff Member of the Year.” In addition, the support departments, like transportation and Central Office, name a top staff member.
“I have worked for Madison County Schools and Madison City Schools for 29-plus years now,” Gray said. “I have seen the system grow from day one to what is today.”
“When I come to work, I try to do my best at what’s thrown at me — whether it is my job title or helping with anything else on campus. I can’t ‘not help out’ a teacher or staff member that needs it! It’s not the right thing!” he said.
Gray graduated from Etowah County High School in Attalla. He then earned an associate’s degree in computer science from Virginia College.
“I have a wife of 31 years named Terri Gray. She retired from Madison City Schools with her work in human resources for the school district,” he said. “I have a daughter named Heather, and she is a kindergarten teacher in Limestone County Schools.”
David’s favorites hobbies are fishing, woodworking and time with his family. “I am thankful that the Lord has blessed me with more than I deserve: great family, good friends and health, so I can work and enjoy life!” he said.
