James Grantham - 2026 School Professional of the Year
(Left-right: Safety & Security Director Paul Hildreth; Superintendent Dr. Mike Looney; District 1 Board Member Sara Gillespie; Learning Zone 5 Superintendent Angela Parham; Thajon Grantham (son); Campus Security Associate James Grantham; Christine Grantham (spouse); Operations Support Coordinator Bashiru Kamara; Centennial HS Principal Oliver "Opie" Blackwell; Chief Operations Officer Noel Maloof.)
Centennial High School (CHS) Campus Security Associate James Grantham believes, “Safety is stewardship. When students and staff feel secure and valued, they are better positioned to learn, collaborate, and thrive.” Grantham’s words and work are being celebrated as he is named the FCS School Professional of the Year (SPOTY).
Grantham arrives at campus early every day to perform comprehensive patrols at Centennial, exceeding district expectations. In his work, he balances the use of safety-monitoring technology and observation with meaningful connections like listening to students and staff. He believes every interaction is an opportunity to reinforce human dignity.
He also understands that fair and consistent correction builds trust while supporting clear expectations.
“As a lifelong learner, I continuously seek innovative ways to improve processes that enhance fairness and efficiency,” says Grantham.
By implementing structured data reviews and targeted patrol alignment, he transformed supervision from a reactive presence to a performance-based system. This intentional structure now minimizes disruption, reinforces accountability, and directly supports teaching and learning.
In addition, Grantham’s detailed weekly reports covering safety concerns, facility needs, daily operations, and even student behavior and attendance insights provide administration with visibility and data for making informed decisions on safety improvements, protecting students and staff.
Grantham’s trusted presence extends beyond the hallways. When he is not completing camera audits, assisting with classroom disturbances, and responding to emergent situations with calm reliability, he actively supports school events, athletic programs, and community activities to ensure visibility in both structured and celebratory spaces. This fosters an environment where families feel welcome, and students feel known.
CHS Principal Dr. Opie Blackwell recommended James for the SPOTY award saying, “Mr. Grantham represents the best of what FCS support personnel can and should be. In every interaction, every patrol, every early-morning greeting, and every quiet act of service, he demonstrates a level of care, consistency, and professionalism that elevates our entire school community.”
“Perhaps the most iconic image of Mr. Grantham is the one seen each morning on Scott Road,” Dr. Blackwell continues. “As he monitors the parking lot to ensure safe entry and reduced speeds, he lifts both arms high to wave to the passing elementary school buses and the neighborhood drivers who have come to depend on his positivity. It is a small gesture, but to our community, it means everything.”