Columbia’s Ekemam Montgomery: A Principal with a Heart
In the vibrant city of Columbia, a remarkable story of resilience and dedication unfolds within the walls of Eau Claire High School. Principal Ekemam Montgomery is not just a leader; he’s a beacon of hope and inspiration for students and staff alike. His office proudly displays a quote from the legendary Booker T. Washington: “Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome while trying to succeed.” This quote resonates deeply with Montgomery, shaping his journey as an educator and principal.
A Journey Rooted in Relatability
Montgomery, who hails from New Haven, Connecticut, understands the challenges many students face today. Having attended a school similar to Eau Claire High, he genuinely connects with his students. “When I look into my students’ eyes, I really do see myself,” Montgomery shares, revealing the powerful bond he feels with them. This common background empowers him and fuels his commitment to uplifting every student that walks through those school doors.
From Teacher to Principal: A Dream Realized
His journey began in 1996, right at Eau Claire, where he started as a business education teacher. Montgomery fondly recalls his first year, filled with the excitement of witnessing former NBA star Jermaine O’Neal walking the halls as a student. “It was a great experience and the start of something special. I knew I was in the right place,” he reminisces with a smile. After dedicating nine years to teaching, he embarked on a leadership path, taking on various roles in the Richland One school district, including stints as dean of students and assistant principal.
A Homecoming
Returning to Eau Claire as principal in 2022 felt like a homecoming for Montgomery. “It’s a dream come true to come back to the place you started,” he beams. As principal, his primary focus is on building meaningful relationships with students. He’s known to greet them with a warm fist bump in the hallways and regularly shares uplifting messages during morning announcements. Every interaction is a testament to his belief that each student deserves care and respect.
Creating Bonds Through Listening
Montgomery understands the importance of being approachable. He prides himself on listening to his students and having one-on-one conversations about life. “I want my students to know that I was once in their shoes,” he empathizes. It’s a shared experience that not only builds trust but also shows students that they’re not alone in their academic journey.
Connecting with Parents
But it doesn’t stop there. Montgomery values the partnership with parents and often keeps his door open for their feedback. He stands outside during dismissal to engage in conversations, ensuring parents feel heard and involved in their child’s education. “I want to ensure them that their children are in the best environment we can provide,” he emphasizes, showcasing his dedication to creating a supportive community.
The Joy of Student Success
Ultimately, what fuels Montgomery’s passion is seeing the joy on students’ faces when they achieve their goals. “Being part of their success is something that money cannot take the place of,” he states with genuine warmth. The satisfaction of witnessing students excel and families celebrating together is what makes his role so rewarding. With every plan set in motion, Montgomery is there, cheering on his students and celebrating their milestones with uncontained joy.
In the ever-evolving world of education, Principal Ekemam Montgomery stands out as a leader who wears his heart on his sleeve. His story is a beautiful reminder that success isn’t just about titles but about the lasting impact one can have on the lives of others. Columbia is lucky to have him at the helm, guiding students toward their futures while reminding them that every obstacle can lead to wonderful achievements.
