Leana Smoot has been named the new Principal at Rose Garden Elementary School. SCUC Board Trustees approved the recommendation at the called meeting held on May 22, 2025. The announcement was cheered by members of the Rose Garden faculty and staff in attendance at the meeting, as well as the watch party from the RGE cafe as Ms. Smoot and her family were introduced.
Ms. Smoot is currently an assistant principal at Samuel Clemens High School, a position she has held for the past two years. Prior to joining SCUC ISD, Smoot served a variety of roles at Killeen ISD, including teacher, special education teacher, soccer coach, instructional coach and assistant principal.
“I am enthusiastic about cultivating a school culture that thrives on collaboration with all stakeholders - parents, staff and the wider community,” Smoot said, adding the partnership will serve “the continuous improvement and success of our students.”
Born in Germany while her father served in the United States Army, Smoot has a keen awareness of the experiences felt by the vast military-connected population at SCUC.
Smoot holds an undergraduate degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from Tarleton State University and a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Concordia University. Empowering students, staff and the entire Rose Garden community will define her mission, stating, “A great leader is one who fosters leadership in others.”
Her most cherished role is being a wife and mother to two daughters, and enjoys spending time outdoors with them, as well as bass fishing with her father, whom she considers her greatest teacher.