For David Elliott, Glenbard East High School is more than just a place to work; it’s a place filled with memories, growth, and community. 

Having taught at Glenbard East for 21 years, Elliott has become a familiar and respected figure in both academics and athletics. Before coming to East, he spent 13 years at Palatine High School, including seven as the head of the math department. 

He made the transition to Glenbard East when the math department leadership position opened, motivated by a desire to work closer to home and serve the community he lives in. He’s never looked back since. 

One of the most meaningful parts of his time at East comes from his role as both a teacher and a parent. With two children who attended Glenbard East, Elliot recalls their graduation days as some of his favorite memories. 

“Being able to see them go through their high school years and be there right after they received their diplomas was really special,” he said. He also emphasized the school’s diverse environment, noting that it helped shape his children’s perspectives and growth.

Elliott says his daily motivation is simple: making a positive impact. “I try to make a positive impact in someone’s life every day,” he explained, whether that’s through teaching, mentoring, or simply supporting students.

Throughout his time at Glenbard East, he has witnessed significant changes. One of the most notable, he says, is the staff’s evolving mindset. 

“When I first came here, some teachers felt they could only work with certain groups of students,” he said. “Now, there’s a willingness to meet the needs of all students, and that has really strengthened our school.”

Beyond his classroom, Elliott has also found success in coaching. He helped lead the basketball team to a third place state finish in recent years and coached freshman badminton teams that won five consecutive conference championships.