A photo of a student smiling at the camera on a two toned wavy blue background. There is a title along the bottom that reads: "Past Cougars."

For Carissa Chatterton, Clinton Elementary was more than just the beginning of her education—it was the start of a mindset.

“Clinton taught me about leadership, caring for others and the importance of effort,” she says. “You really do get out what you put in. If you want school to be fun and meaningful, you have to bring that energy and effort yourself.”

Those values have clearly paid off. Carissa has excelled in junior high and high school, participating in National Honor Society (as president), school musicals and seminary council. She’s also maintained a 4.0 GPA since 7th grade.

“Every year at Clinton was its own experience, its own journey,” Chatterton said. “I wouldn’t take any of it back. Clinton was the foundation that made me who I am today.”