Linda Ellis: Support Staff of the Year and so much more

When Nurse Linda Ellis heard that she had been chosen for Support Staff of the Year, it was shocking news.

“I didn't even vote because I didn't even see the vote,” she said.

Ellis has been a nurse for a long time, 15 years for Florence One Schools and four years for West Florence High School. Before becoming a nurse at West Florence, she worked at McLeod Medical Center. practicing for 30 years. She has always had a love for helping other people, including her disabled sister who was a major part in helping her want this career path.

So, what does Ellis say is the best part of her job?

“The interaction with the students, just giving them a positive outcome and not letting them leave upset about anything,” she said.

Ellis believes one of the greatest skills that she has to offer is that she is “good with communicating towards students and understands because people come from all walks of life.”

Ellis has a wonderful team with her co-worker, Nurse Cristen McGee, but during the beginning of Covid she said it was super stressful because they didn't know how it would work out. On a normal day in the job Nurse Ellis said that she “restores things, does routine morning meds, and all above just gets students that come in and go from there.”

What does it mean to Ellis to win this award and recognition?

“Being chosen for this award means a lot to me and is absolutely an honor because I didn't expect it,” she said.

Her fellow WF nurse, McGee is happy to be able to work with Ellis.

“Mrs. Ellis is a great nurse! She loves caring for the students and staff here at West. She is very generous and caring,” said McGee

Many students who have been to the nurse or had run into Nurse Ellis throughout the school had some great things to say about her.

“She's a good nurse; she actually cares when you walk in the door,” Jackson King, freshman said.

Others agreed.

“I like her as a nurse; I can depend on her if I get hurt or if someone else does,” Freshman Noah Neel said.

Not feeling well is never any fun, but Ellis is here at WF to make that a little easier.

“When I feel sick, I go to the nurse and somehow always feel better when I leave,” said McCartney Banks, freshman.

The administrative team here at WF also had great things to say about Ellis.

“She’s a rockstar, always helps a student, knows her job accurately, faces the challenge, and she is dependable,” said Assistant Principal Christopher Coleman.

Matt Dowdell, principal, also described Nurse Ellis as someone who goes above and beyond.

“Fantastic nurse for our teachers, students, and staff, super genuine, a person to go to whenever needed, and she goes the extra mile,” said Dowdell.

During this unique Covid year, the support of our nurses to staff and students alike has been greatly appreciated. Linda Ellis is the epitome of this dedication.