Hi, there!

I'm Misti Smith and I can't wait to work with your kiddo! I am beginning my tenth year in Education with Douglas County School District. This year I am exclusively at Saddle Ranch Elementary four days per week. I love gifted education, and I am so excited to get to know your student! I have lived in Colorado for ten years now and I LOVE it. I have one son, who is thirteen years old. In my spare time, I enjoy hiking, camping, crafts, travel, and exploring Colorado. I can't wait to see where this year takes us!

Educational Philosophy:

All students deserve a learning environment where they can feel safe to express themselves intellectually, socially, and creatively. My classroom is a community of acceptance and growth. I strive every day to help each child move forward in his or her education, and as a citizen of the world. I am passionate about the whole child. I provide a nurturing environment of collaboration, based on mutual learning and respect. I strive to help my students better understand, accept, and appreciate themselves as individuals. My goal is for all students to leave my classroom with the intellectual and personal tools they need to be successful in the future.

Education:

Undergraduate Degree: BS in Elementary Education from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale.

Additional endorsement in Gifted Education.

Additional secondary endorsements in English Language Arts, Social Studies, and Science.