My name is Dana Smith. I am starting my 5th year in the Des Moines Public Schools and my 17th year in education. When I am not at work, I enjoy spending time with my family and our new goldendoodle puppy named Dizzy. I am married to Dave, and I also have 1 daughter and 1 grandson.

Hello! My name is Leah Vance and I am the new Orchard Place therapist serving at Lovejoy. I received my bachelor’s degree in social work from Cedarville University in Cedarville, Ohio in 2019. I then attended the University of Iowa where I graduated with my master’s degree in Social Work in the spring of 2020. Outside of school, I enjoy traveling, spending time with friends and family, being outside, and watching movies. I am excited to be at Lovejoy Elementary and look forward to working with the wonderful staff and students.

One person can make a difference, and everyone should try. ~John Fitzgerald Kennedy