Message From The Principal

Dear Elmhurst Community,

I am truly honored to serve as your Principal and to be part of such a wonderful and vibrant community. I would like to take a moment to share a little about myself.

I bring with me over a two decade of experience in education, having served as a Principal in the Franklin Pierce ,Olympia School District, an Assistant Principal in the Bethel School District, and as the Director of Special Services in the Rainier School District. I was born and raised in Pierce County, and it is here that I call home with my husband and our seven children (Mariah (20), Trinity (18), JJ (12), Corbin (11), Eagan (5), Jamison (4), and Colette (3).We have been active foster parents in Pierce County for the past 13 years, and our family embraces the power of cultural connections and inclusion.

At Elmhurst, our focus is on collaboration. Together, we will work tirelessly to ensure that every student succeeds, not only academically, but socially and emotionally as well. We are committed to creating a school environment rooted in restorative practices and a culture of inclusivity, respect, and empathy.

I am passionate about fostering an environment where every student can thrive, using culturally responsive teaching practices to meet the needs of all our learners.

Thank you for entrusting us with your child’s education. Together, we can make this school year an unforgettable journey of growth, learning, and connection.

Warmest regards,

Marianna Smith                                                                                   

Principal, Elmhurst Elementary