Urbana High School, now approaching its 30th year, has seen numerous changes in the layout, curriculum, and faculties. Today we have the privilege of being led by Principal Donna Clabaugh. In this exclusive interview, we offer a closer look to the person leading our school!
With over 20 years of experience in education, she has spent the majority of her career as an administrator including her time at Oakdale High School and Crestwood Middle School. In her opinion, Urbana has some of the most ‘uniqueness’. “The diversity of Urbana is often something people forget about,” she said.
During the pandemic, Clabaugh took on the role as a human resources representative for FCPS. Coming out of the pandemic, she noticed a huge change in school life. “I came back to Urbana and walked around the school at 2:45 and no one was there.”
Yet there is light at the end of the tunnel as she has started to notice change, “We’re having pep rallies, senior sunrise… so I think we’re finally getting back into normal school life,” she explained with a smile on her face.
Further discussing the pandemic, Clabuagh explains that there were positives that came out of it too. “[Platforms] like Zoom and Schoology, I think coming out of Covid were really good.”
Further discussing, “These resources allow kids to make things if they were unable to be present which I know many students use.” The pandemic was hard, but looking on the positive side, these things make the job more ‘efficient’.
When referencing Urbana’s physical layout and look, Clabaugh wishes she could change the “red and green tile” that she hates. “I wish I could get school colors,” she said.
Reflecting on the present school year, Clabaugh said the start has been “very positive” so far, despite losing multiple teachers at the end of last year.
With so many last minute changes in staff, Clabaugh expresses the issues that came with the drop, including having to redo the entire schedule, multiple times. “It was really difficult,” she explained.
A lot of new projects are in development for Urbana. New cardio equipment and pianos are already being delivered. Commercial printers are coming as well, aimed to assist the business side of academics like ‘FBLA’, SGA, and the Hawkeye itself!
These projects have impacted students across the school. Senior Helaina Cullum appreciated Clabaugh’s spirit for the school noting, “she’s so passionate for Urbana.”
Just like many other younger students, sophomore Makenzie Kilcoyne has only ever known Clabaugh as her principal. Recently Urbana experienced a lockdown that sent the school into a frenzy. Kilcoyne said, “I really appreciated her transparency about the lockdown,” when referencing Clabaugh’s video announcement made the next day.
Lastly, Clabaugh spoke of her personal motivators throughout tough days, “You always just have to know the next day will be better.” Adding, “We have good teachers and students in the building who have the abilities to keep us going, and the work we do is really important,” she finished.
Though Clabaugh has only been at Urbana for 3 years, her leadership has shaped many futures. As she looks forward to the future, she sees a brighter, more vibrant future for students as she continues to lead our school into the new school year.
