Ashlyn Smith didn’t just start her teaching career at Clinton Elementary—she found a second home.
Now in her second year of teaching, Smith reflects on how Clinton immediately became a place where she felt seen, supported and embraced by a true community of educators.
“Starting as a first-year teacher is daunting no matter where you go,” she shares. “But the moment I walked through the doors of Clinton, I knew this was different. People welcomed me like family. They took me under their wing and made sure I never felt like I was figuring it out alone.”
That sense of family is what Smith believes sets Clinton Elementary apart. It’s not just something the teachers talk about—it’s something they live.
“We view every student here as ‘our’student. Not just sixth grade, or first grade—every child is all of ours. That collective mindset builds such a powerful sense of responsibility, care and support across the whole building.”
Whether it’s helping a colleague during lunch or staying late to support a struggling student, Smith has noticed that Clinton’s teachers go above and beyond every single day.
“I remember one night staying after school, thinking I was working late,” Smith said. “But when I looked out the window, the parking lot was still full. That’s just what people do here. Teachers give up their time constantly—lunch, recess, evenings—because they genuinely care. And they don’t do it for praise; they do it because it’s who they are.”
Smith also credits the leadership at Clinton for creating a culture where passion and collaboration thrive. She speaks especially highly of Principal Brenda Gleed, who began her leadership at Clinton the same year Smith joined as a new teacher.
“Principal Gleed has been an incredible mentor,” she said. “From day one, she made sure I was taken care of. She listens. She checks in. She’s present. I’ve walked down the hall with her and seen her stop to greet every student by name. She leads with her heart and sets the tone for the rest of us. Her love for this school is obvious—and it’s contagious.”
For Smith, Clinton Elementary isn’t just a job—it’s a calling. She describes teaching here as being part of something greater than herself, where the entire team is united by a shared mission: to lift one another up and ensure that every child thrives.
“Anyone looking for a school community should know that Clinton is special,” Smith said. “The culture here—of kindness, hard work, and unwavering support—is rare. I don’t think you can find a school where people care more.”
As Smith looks ahead to her future at Clinton, she feels excited, proud and deeply grateful.
“This school has already changed my life. I can only hope to do the same for my students.”