LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Audry Smith was nominated by her principal, Patricia Ceja.

Ms. Smith is a life-changing second grade teacher at Fruitvale Elementary in Oakland, CA. At the beginning of each school year, she lets her students know that her classroom is a family, and by being in her class, they are now part of her family, and are therefore a "Smithereen."

"On any given day, walking into Ms. Smith's class is a joy," Ceja said. "Ms. Smith establishes a nurturing and safe environment where students feel comfortable with who they are, as members of a classroom community that works together to learn. Students learn to motivate themselves and each other with daily affirmations. They engage in academic discourse across the content areas and develop a love for reading and learning."

Ms. Smith is a dedicated educator who not only supports her classroom students, but shares her expertise by serving as the English Language Development teacher for new students in grades 2-5. Four days a week, Ms. Smith opens up her classroom and welcomes new students who are learning basic English skills. She teaches systematic ELD, and helps these students feel welcomed and appreciated. New students love her, and greatly appreciate her for helping them transition into the American School culture.

"As the school principal, I know I can count on Ms. Smith as a teacher leader," Ceja said. "For at least 4 years, Ms. Smith represented our school as the site Math Teacher leader. As Math Lead, she represented our school at district meetings, and served as part of the school site Instructional Leadership Team. They worked with school and district leadership in planning and implementing the school site plan for student achievement, and the year long professional development plan and inquiry cycles."

Ms. Smith currently serves as the after-school Program Liaison Coach, where she coaches the after-school teaching staff and assists with program coordination.

"In my 20 years in education, I have had the opportunity to work with many great educators. Ms. Smith is one of those great teacher leaders who strives to give each student the best educational experience possible," Ceja said. "She is a reflective practitioner who request feedback on her teaching to better serve her students. When she needs help, she is not afraid to ask for support as she always puts her students best interest at heart." 

"Ms. Smith truly demonstrates all the qualities of a LifeChanger," Ceja said. "She is a true professional who is not only present for her students, but for her colleagues. She is a great asset to our school community, and we are very fortunate to have her. For me, it is an honor to work with such a dedicated teacher."