Hello, Firebirds! Welcome to the 2023-2024 school year!  My name is Ms. Nicole Smith, and I have served as a middle school educator for 20 years. I am an alumna of the University of South Carolina (Columbia), where I received my Bachelor of Arts degree in English. Also, I am a graduate of Walden University. While enrolled with Walden University, I earned my Master of Science degree in Education with a specialization in literacy in the content areas grades (6-12). As it relates to teacher certification, I am highly qualified in the area of middle level language arts with an endorsement in gifted and talented education. Additionally, I am a certified Center for Educator Recruitment, Retention, and Advancement (CERRA) teacher mentor.

     At the genesis of my teaching career, I worked for two middle schools with Dorchester School District IV (South Carolina). I received the honor of "Rookie Teacher of the Year" during my first year of teaching, and I was later recognized as "Teacher of the Year" during my third year of serving as an educator for another middle school within the same district. Some years later, I served at a middle school with Dorchester School District II (South Carolina) before deciding to join the Greenville County Schools family in 2013. Additionally, I received the honor of Dr. Phinnize J. Fisher Middle School's 2022-2023 "Teacher of the Year," for which I am both extremely humbled and grateful. 

As a Firebird educator, I plan to continue to serve and support both my students and colleagues. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with loved ones and close friends, viewing theatrical performances, watching reality TV and movies, cooking, and reading autobiographies. As an educator, I truly value all students, and I am elated to be a part of their educational journeys.