Ms. Clayton has been the principal at Hilldale since 2007 and has guided its growth as it more than tripled in enrollment and evolved into a school focused to support the gifted learner in all capacities. Coming from a background in theatre and education, Ms. Clayton delights in working with children in creative ways, fostering their imaginations, and building their self-confidence. She is gratified by the remarkable achievements of her students as they grow into the best versions of themselves, learning to practice self-regulation, kindness, service, and integrity. Social-emotional learning and supporting the various needs of the gifted learner are her passions. She holds an MAT in Teaching and a BFA in Theatre. She has taught children as young as 2 years old in her work in Early Childhood and as wise as 85 years old in her work guiding and directing senior citizens writing one-person plays.