Employee of the Year - Kristie Granholm by Samiyah Evans
This month, Melbourne High School proudly recognized Ms. Kristie Granholm as our Employee of the Year. From the moment the school day begins, she’s working hard behind the scenes to ensure everything runs smoothly. Whether she’s assisting students, answering parent enquiries, or supporting staff with daily tasks, Ms. Granholm handles it all with calm professionalism. Her role in the attendance office is essential, and her efforts often go unnoticed simply because she makes it all look effortless. She is truly the quiet force keeping the front of our school steady and strong.
Ms. Granholm has been a valued member of the Melbourne High team for several years. As one of the first faces people see when they walk into the school, she sets a warm and welcoming tone. She helps manage attendance, schedules, calls, and countless other responsibilities that keep the day running smoothly. Her deep knowledge of school operations makes her an essential point of contact for students, families, and staff alike. Simply put, she helps the entire school function at its best. Her colleagues often describe her as calm, friendly, and incredibly dependable. She approaches every challenge with patience and grace, no matter how busy or unpredictable the day may be. She’s always willing to assist others, offer a kind word, or step in when needed without hesitation. Students feel comfortable approaching her, knowing they’ll be met with respect and care. Her steady presence brings a sense of trust and reassurance to everyone who walks through the doors.
Melbourne High’s front office ran smoothly this October thanks to Ms. Granholm, whose organization and calm leadership earned her recognition as Employee of the Month. She managed constant activity with precision, quickly solving problems and keeping students, staff, and families at ease. “I kept a notebook out on my desk and wrote down a lot of things I needed to remember,” Ms. Granholm said. “Also, I always checked through all my emails again at night to make sure I didn’t miss anything. I set a lot of reminders!” Student Aubriana Presley praised her as “the kind of person who held everything together without ever seeking recognition,” a reflection of the lasting impact her quiet dedication had on the entire school community.
Caption: Attendance Office Star: Ms. Granholm Shines. Ms. Granholm plays a vital role in keeping Melbourne High’s front office running smoothly. Her friendly attitude and calm presence make her a trusted and familiar face to students, staff, and families alike. Every day, she manages countless behind-the-scenes tasks that keep our school organized and on track. No matter how busy things get, she approaches every situation with patience, professionalism, and a smile. Her positive energy helps create a welcoming environment for everyone who walks through our doors. We’re so proud to recognize her hard work, dedication, and the warmth she brings to our school community. When asked about receiving this recognition, Ms. Granholm shared, “I was totally surprised. I felt really honored and excited.” Photo by Jen Williams