Pete Clabough

Dear Parents, Guardians and Community,

I am learning very quickly how fortunate the children, families, and community connected to Smith Elementary School are as I begin my first year as principal here. The passion of the teachers and staff, outstanding curriculum, strong community involvement, innovative partnerships, special programs, and it’s rich, long standing traditions make Smith Elementary School extraordinary.

I have been an employee in West Aurora School District for the past nine years as the assistant principal at Washington Middle School. Prior to this I was a teacher and principal at an alternative high school here in Aurora. I began my career as a high school Biology teacher and wrestling coach in Stillman Valley, IL. My education consists of a bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences and Education from Illinois State University, a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Lewis University, and a doctoral degree in Education (Leadership) from Aurora University.

My wife Brooke and I have three wonderful children, Kyle, Courtney, and Caleb ages five, three, and one respectively.

My goal as principal is to work together with students, parents/guardians, staff, and community, to continue the great traditions of Smith Elementary School set before me and continue to remain on the cutting edge with regard to our educational practices. We will set high expectations for ourselves as professional educators to ensure student success. I believe that every professional decision we make can directly or indirectly have an impact on student learning to some degree. We will always keep this in the forefront of our minds while making decisions.

It is an honor for me to be the principal at Smith Elementary School. I will always make time to meet with anyone who may have questions, ideas, concerns, etc. Please do not hesitate to contact me at (630) 301-5440 or e-mail me at the address below.

Respectfully,

Pete Clabough, Ed.D.
Principal, Smith Elementary School
pclabough@sd129.org