For Dave Greenlief, the Director of Buildings and Grounds at Monmouth-Roseville School District, maintaining safe, functional, and welcoming facilities has been a deeply personal mission for over a decade. As his retirement approaches at the end of the year, Dave reflects on his tenure with a mix of pride and gratitude. “It’s hard to walk away from something you’ve poured your heart into,” he admits, “but I know the foundation we’ve built will carry on.”

Dave’s leadership transformed the district’s facilities, guided by a vision shared with Superintendent Ed Fletcher. “When I started, the buildings were safe but in need of repair,” he recalls. “Mr. Fletcher wanted spaces that inspired pride and creativity, not just functionality. That vision has driven everything we’ve accomplished.”

From revitalizing the high school auditorium, once dusty and outdated, to creating athletic fields that rival the best in the region, the progress has been remarkable. “The auditorium had its original curtains when I arrived, and now it’s a state-of-the-art facility,” Dave says. “The football practice field, once unkempt, is now better than some schools’ game fields. Seeing these spaces transformed has been incredibly rewarding.”

Dave has also spearheaded advancements in safety, implementing bulletproof glass, security vestibules, and a high-tech key card system that ensures swift lockdown capabilities when needed. “It’s proactive work,” he emphasizes. “We’ve focused on staying ahead of potential risks, not waiting for something to happen.”

Perhaps one of the most notable features of Dave’s leadership is his ability to weave his global experiences into his local role. Before joining Monmouth-Roseville, he managed infrastructure projects for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Afghanistan, working with diverse teams of Afghan, Pakistani, and Indian workers. This background uniquely positioned him to lead in one of Illinois’ most multicultural rural districts, where more than 25 languages are spoken. “Walking through these hallways and hearing all the languages—it feels like my life has come full circle,” he says.

Dave’s connection to his work and the people he serves runs deep. As a Monmouth native and alumnus of the district, he takes immense pride in the schools he once attended. “I went to second grade in the same room where students are now learning English,” he says. “It’s a special feeling, knowing I’ve been part of preserving and enhancing these spaces for the next generation.”

As retirement nears, Dave looks forward to spending time in warmer climates and indulging his passion for travel, but leaving Monmouth-Roseville behind isn’t easy. “It’s the people I’ll miss the most—the staff, the students, the sense of purpose. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside a team that takes pride in their work every single day,” he reflects. Known for his approachable style, he often jokes with students, creating a bond that’s as memorable as his projects.

One of his more lighthearted legacies is a program he affectionately calls “What Makes Dave Mad.” By sharing photos of small oversights or potential safety issues with principals—without commentary—he has instilled a culture of awareness and accountability across the district. “It’s a simple way to keep everyone sharp,” he explains, chuckling at the name’s playful tone.

As he hands the reins to his successor, who has been shadowing him since September, Dave takes comfort in knowing the district is in good hands. “We’ve set up systems and a culture that will continue to thrive,” he says. “It’s bittersweet to step away, but I’m proud of the work we’ve done.”

From upgrading athletic facilities to fortifying school safety, Dave Greenlief’s tenure has left an indelible mark on Monmouth-Roseville. His legacy is one of dedication, innovation, and care for his community. “It’s not just about maintaining buildings,” he says. “It’s about creating spaces where students can dream big and feel safe to pursue those dreams.”