Dr. Pete Clabough

I have had the privilege of serving as the principal at Smith Elementary School for over a decade now, steadfast in supporting our vision of embracing the curiosity, complexity, and joy of learning. At Smith, we prioritize positive student-teacher relationships, view mistakes as learning opportunities, provide challenging learning experiences, and prioritize our students' social and emotional growth.

My journey in education began as a high school biology teacher in Stillman Valley, IL, where I also coached football and wrestling. I later served as a science teacher and administrator at an alternative high school here in Aurora. Transitioning to the West Aurora School District, I spent time as the assistant principal at Washington Middle School while earning a Doctorate of Education from Aurora University. Moving into my current role at Smith Elementary School has been a deeply fulfilling career shift, where each day brings joy as I interact with students, staff, and families.

I wholeheartedly believe in every child's potential and remain committed to collaborating with our school community to maintain a safe learning environment that maximizes student dialogue and collaboration.

Outside of Smith, I enjoy spending time with my family, attending my children's sporting events, and fishing.

I eagerly anticipate another rewarding year as principal of Smith School and am excited to witness our students' continued academic and social-emotional growth.

Dr. MARISSA CHRISTOFFEL

As the new assistant principal of Smith Elementary School, I am looking forward to collaborating with staff and celebrating diversity, our community, and our students!

From 2022 to 2024, I served as the principal of Pope St. John Paul II Catholic Academy, where I managed all aspects of the pre-K through eighth grade institution, including curriculum development, staff professional learning, and budget oversight.

Before my work at the academy, I dedicated nineteen years to Rotolo Middle School in Batavia, Illinois. During my tenure there, I taught a range of subjects including drama, communications, debate, language arts, and social studies to students in grades six through eight.

My career in education began in a classroom for three- and four-year-olds at Chesterbrook Academy in Bartlett.

I hold a Bachelor of Arts in elementary education from National-Louis University, a Master of Arts in reading from Northeastern Illinois University, as well as both a Master of Arts in educational leadership and a Doctorate in curriculum and instruction from Aurora University.

I am excited and humbled to become a part of West Aurora School District 129 community, where I can help foster an environment of equity and opportunity for all students and staff.