About Ms. Smith

Meet Ms. Smith-

Shakira W. Smith is a 17-year educator in the city of Philadelphia, currently serving as Co-Principal of Young Scholars Charter School. Ms. Smith has served the Young Scholars community in multiple capacities, joining the school in 2005 as a Reading and Language Arts teacher for 5 years before transitioning into several leadership roles including Dean of Culture, Chief of Staff, and Assistant Principal. Ms. Smith departed YSCS in 2015 and excitedly returned back to the school in 2018. As Co-Principal Ms. Smith oversees the school culture, operations, and instruction with a focus on the school’s reading curriculum. Ms. Smith is passionate about creating a supportive and productive learning environment for students and staff and has helped to develop structures to provide students with the best possible school experience that will foster a joy for learning and influence students to achieve their dreams. Ms. Smith's love and commitment for YSCS comes from the uniqueness of our school community, which is committed to delivering a meaningful middle school experience for our scholars. The relationships built and maintained overtime with students, alumni, and families make YSCS feel more like a family than a job. Ms. Smith is a 2-time graduate of Temple University, earning her Bachelor of Arts Degree in English and Philosophy and a Master of Education Degree.

Shakira Smith

ssmith@phillyscholars.org

Instagram: @mssmithyscsphilly