Mrs. Smith, who teaches PreK, grew up in Yankton and carried her love of learning to South Dakota State University where she earned two bachelor’s degrees, one in Early Childhood Education and another in Animal Science. As a student, she always enjoyed Social Studies, and today she brings that same curiosity and excitement into her own classroom.

Outside of school, Mrs. Smith can often be found cheering on the Jackrabbits at SDSU games, camping, reading, or spending time with her nephews. At home, life is lively thanks to her three dogs—two goldendoodles, Bailee and Loxleigh, and a labradoodle named Stella.

Her favorite snack is a warm brownie, and she lives by Nelson Mandela’s words: “It always seems impossible until it is done.” What brings her the most joy as a teacher is watching her students’ faces light up as they discover something new and share their curiosity each day.