Q&A with Stone School principal Christine Pfaff

Part of an occasional series in the Neighbor section introducing readers to the men and women who sit in the corner offices of schools across DuPage County.

Christine Pfaff

Principal, Stone School, Addison, Addison Elementary District 4

Age: 29 at heart.

Family: Husband, Rick; Children: Erin, Steve, Claire.

Grew up in: South Holland, Ill.

Your ultimate pet: My two Rhodesian Ridgebacks, Simon & Schuester.

What's your education philosophy in one sentence: To ensure that what we do is best for children.

Personal heroes: My parents.

How did you wind up in education? I was a student in my high school's Child Development Program. I won the Annual Honor Student Award for my work in the program. This set the path for my future.

What is your dream vacation? Anywhere with my entire family.

If I won the biggest lottery in history: Well, I rarely play, but if I won I would pay my bills, invest and determine which not-for-profit I would devote my energies toward.

Favorite reality show? The little time I have for TV is not wasted on reality shows.

Cubs or Sox? South Holland …ȯˆ¿Ã‚ˆ½ SOX!!!

If you could invite one literary character to dinner, who would you pick and why? I would absolutely enjoy a vibrant and humorous conversation with Mark Twain.

Musical guilty pleasures? I love jazz and blues.

Favorite childhood book? My favorite story, read to me enthusiastically on a regular basis by my mom, was "The Tale of Custard the Dragon" by Ogden Nash.

Bungee jumping, rappelling or parachuting? I prefer kayaking.

What's the most innovative program you've seen so far at school? I'm really excited about the PBIS, Positive Behavior Intervention System program, as it strives to teach children positive behaviors in an affirmative format.

Latest new "it" word you've heard from a student? The hot word in fourth grade is "'sup?"

What lasting impression do you hope to leave? That I did what was best for each child.

What's the worst influence on today's youth? I find the departure from family values in the media very troubling and detrimental to our young people.

Thing that makes today's students distinct? Their savvy with technology.

If I could change one thing about the world it would be … that all children are truly loved.

If you could paint your office any color it would be … any calming color would suit me just fine.