Nursery Road's Melton Named SC Elementary Principal of the Year

A champion for children. A respected leader. An outstanding individual.

Those words ring true for the people who know Nursery Road Elementary School principal Dr. Christina Melton.

They ring so loud and clear that Melton was named the South Carolina Elementary Principal of the Year by the S.C. Association of School Administrators. 

“She’s a wonderful leader,” said Jessica Felker, Nursery Road’s library media specialist. “I have seen the school have a total turnaround in the six years that I have been here.”

“She always has you thinking what’s best for the children,” Felker said. “She’s very organized. She’s always thinking. I think those are all traits of a great leader.”

Melton was recognized for the top honor Tuesday in a surprise announcement held at the school.

Melton said she was truly speechless when hearing she was the recipient of the award.

“I don’t know that I’m worthy, but I’m very grateful,” Melton said. “The passion that I have for education, I hope those that know me would say that I’m tireless when it comes to children.”

“I try to make sure I give the best that I have to give because our children deserve the best that we have to give,” she said. “Children today deserve to know that they matter, that they count and that they have dreams that are worthy of being heard.”

Melton also said that she couldn’t take all the credit for the success of the school, which only five years ago had a “Below Average” Growth rating and a “Good” Absolute rating on the School report Card.

For the last three years, the school has received “Excellent” Absolute ratings.

Melton said the school’s success has been a community effort from the teachers, who are the backbone of the school and the parents who volunteer their time to others who lend a helping hand.

Three principals each year -- one each at the elementary, middle and high school level -- are selected for Principal of the Year. Recipients from every state compete for national honors, through the National Association of Elementary School Principals and will be named National Distinguished Principals.

District 5 Superintendent Dr. Stephen Hefner said in a release that Melton is "well-known for her passion, drive, and clear vision of excellence. She is known for pulling together whatever forces are needed to achieve the desired end.”