Administrator Spotlight

Dr. Marcia Smith

Deputy Superintendent, Springdale School District

"My grandmother sparked both my sister’s and my passion for learning," says Dr. Marcia Smith, Deputy Superintendent for Springdale Public Schools. "Because of my grandmother’s love for learning, my sister and I are both educators. Her wisdom ignited a curiosity within us that fueled a desire to inspire others the way she inspired us." Dr. Smith started her educational career as an instructional reading assistant at Siloam Springs Junior High School while attending college. After completing her degree at John Brown University, she taught math at Southwest Junior High and Springdale High School, serving as department chair and then as an assistant principal. "I was principal at George Junior High School, Assistant Superintendent for Secondary Teaching and Learning, and Associate Superintendent before my current position as Deputy Superintendent of Springdale Public Schools," she says. She was also previously an adjunct professor at Northwest Arkansas Community College and is now an adjunct professor at the University of Arkansas.

Dr. Smith says one of the best aspects of her job is "working with a team of dedicated educators passionate about teaching and learning, resulting in students' growth and success." She says she loves seeing expertly executed lessons where all students know what they are learning and are engaged at high levels. The most challenging part of her job is balancing the need to be present and engaged in the schools with the administrative duties and responsibilities that require focused time and attention. "When Dr. Rollins hired me as assistant superintendent, he shared that a critical challenge in leading a large and diverse school district is ensuring that no one feels overlooked, whether student, teacher, or community member. This has become my primary focus - to develop strategies and systems to proactively identify and address the unique needs of all stakeholders so that everyone in the district feels seen, heard, and supported."

Dr. Smith believes anyone considering being a district administrator should know that it is essential to understand that the role is satisfying and incredibly demanding. "It can be a fulfilling career path if you are passionate about education and ready to lead. If this is your goal, make sure you love learning and have a crystal clear focus on student success. These two things go hand in hand and should be the guiding principle in all aspects of school and district administration." She says when it comes to educational progress, the phrase 'the more things change, the more they stay the same' applies, stating "Despite circumstances, outcomes, technologies, and fundamental elements, we always circle back to the foundation of our 'why'—student growth and success."

?Q&A! with Dr. Marcia Smith

What is the best advice you have ever received?

The best advice I ever received was from my grandmother, who said, “Honesty and integrity should always be your moral compass.” Her wisdom has proven invaluable, reminding me that my character is my most important achievement.

What might other administrators be surprised to know about you?

When I was 13 and living in California, I took calligraphy classes. Calligraphy became a passion of mine, and when I turned fifteen, I worked for a major bank in California doing calligraphy.

What do you enjoy doing during your time off?

When I want to unwind, there is nothing like relaxing by the pool with my husband, Brent. I also enjoy visiting out-of-state family and seldom miss a ‘Girls Night Out’ with my dear friends. And, as crazy as most find this, I enjoy working out and exercising.

What is one of the things on your “Bucket List?”

One thing on my bucket list is to visit Pearl Harbor in Hawaii, a place of deep personal significance to my family. My grandfather was stationed there during WWII with my grandmother and father. They have shared many meaningful experiences, which makes me want to connect to their past and honor their struggles.

If you weren’t in your current position, what would you be doing?

If I weren't in my current role, I would be teaching math. Outside of education, I would work as a fitness instructor. I taught ZUMBA and truly enjoyed it. While I regularly attend Burn Boot Camp with my workout partner, Kendra Clay, leading a class requires more time than I can commit to now.

What do you see as the biggest benefit of AAEA membership?

The benefits of AAEA membership are numerous, but the biggest is the ability to network with other administrators. The job can be daunting, and this collaborative effort greatly reduces the workload. Connecting with fellow administrators enables us to share ideas, best practices, and resources, fostering a supportive community where we can work together effectively.