Administration
MELISSA YARBROUGH
I am honored to serve as Principal of Hope D. Wall School, a community that has played a significant role in my professional journey. I am passionate about creating a supportive, inclusive environment where every student is empowered to learn, grow, and achieve their fullest potential.
My career in education began as a special education teacher working with students with diverse learning needs. Throughout the years, I have had the opportunity to serve in a variety of leadership roles focused on student support, program coordination, crisis response, and school improvement. My experience includes overseeing Extended School Year programming, supporting individualized education plans, leading Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) initiatives, and collaborating with staff and families to ensure students receive the services and opportunities they need to succeed.
I believe that strong relationships are at the heart of a successful school community. By working together with students, families, and staff, we can create meaningful learning experiences that foster academic growth, independence, confidence, and lifelong success.
As a proud West Aurora graduate, I am grateful for the opportunity to continue serving the district and community that helped shape me. I earned a Bachelor of Science in Special Education from Northern Illinois University, an English as a Second Language endorsement from the University of St. Francis, and a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Aurora University. I look forward to partnering with our families, students, and staff as we help our Rockets soar.
KIMBERLY REIF
I am honored to serve as Assistant Principal of Hope D. Wall School and to be part of a community dedicated to supporting the unique strengths and needs of every student. I believe that all students deserve an environment where they feel valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.
Throughout my career, I have worked in special education, instructional leadership, and school improvement roles with a focus on creating equitable learning opportunities for students. My experience includes supporting instructional practices, leading professional development, facilitating collaborative problem-solving teams, analyzing student data, and partnering with educators to strengthen student outcomes. I am passionate about helping staff and students grow through a culture of continuous learning, collaboration, and high expectations.
I believe that meaningful relationships and strong partnerships with families are essential to student success. By working together, we can create a supportive school environment that promotes academic growth, independence, confidence, and lifelong learning.
I am currently completing a Master of Arts in Educational Administration with a Principal Leadership concentration from Governors State University and earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from Illinois State University. I look forward to partnering with the students, families, and staff of Hope D. Wall School as we continue to help every learner thrive.