Samantha Smith
Position: Third-Grade STEAM Magnet Teacher
School: Stanley Mosk Elementary School
School District: Los Angeles Unified School District
City, State: Winnetka, CA
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Samantha Smith was nominated by her principal, Rachelle Ratner.
Ms. Smith is a phenomenal third-grade teacher at Stanley Mosk STEAM Magnet, and she embodies what it means to be a LifeChanger! Always smiling and full of positive energy, she brings passion, leadership, and excellence into everything she does. She has served as a Grade Level Chair, guiding new third-grade colleagues with kindness and expertise. Through collaboration and mentorship, she has helped shape instruction across the grade level while consistently modeling effective PBIS strategies that support student behavior and emotional growth.
"This teacher also champions our GATE program as our GATE Coordinator, working diligently to expand opportunities for students to be identified as gifted and to reach their full potential," said Ratner.
Thanks to her efforts, more students than ever before are being recognized and supported for their exceptional abilities. In addition to her classroom work, she is a teacher leader in the after-school Theatre Club, helping students build confidence, creativity, and a love for the arts. She has also played a key role in shaping the future of education at Mosk as a member of the TEAM Integration Committee and as a third-grade STEAM magnet teacher, where she inspires innovation and curiosity in her students daily. Ms. Smith is a role model, an advocate, and an inspiration to students and staff alike.
"We are incredibly fortunate to have her on the team at Stanley Mosk!" Ratner added.
She is a dedicated hard working teacher and it shows through in the progress her students make. She creates a wonderful learning environment.
Thank you for all the hard work!
Thank you Ms Smith for everything that you do! This Stanley Mosk momma appreciates you!
Thank you for all your hard work and support. We are so proud of you. You are the best!
Mrs. Smith very creative, compassionate, passionate to teaching, helpful to children, always smiling, but the same time strong in classrooms it helps to discipline the students. Thank you for your hard work.
I wholeheartedly support the nomination of Ms. Samantha Smith as a LifeChanger. As a third-grade teacher at Stanley Mosk STEAM Magnet, she exemplifies excellence, leadership, and compassion. Her impact goes far beyond the classroom—she mentors colleagues as Grade Level Chair, leads with positivity, and models effective PBIS strategies that support student growth.
As our GATE Coordinator, Ms. Smith has expanded access and advocacy for gifted learners, ensuring more students are identified and supported. She also inspires creativity and confidence through her leadership in the after-school Theatre Club, and she brings innovation to her role as a STEAM magnet teacher and TEAM Integration Committee member.
Ms. Smith is a role model, a tireless advocate, and a daily source of inspiration. Her dedication truly makes her a LifeChanger in every sense.
Go Mrs. Smith!! You are an incredible teacher and so deserve this!!
It has been a privilege to witness Mrs. Smith's contributions as part of this year's Teacher-train-Teacher program (PETIP program). Her teaching is characterized by exemplary classroom management, well-defined expectations, and a deeply evident passion for education. While she is an experienced educator capable of guiding many, Mrs. Smith's willingness to continuously learn and refine her teaching methods is particularly impressive. Her leadership extends beyond her own development, inspiring her students to grow and thrive in a dynamic learning environment.
Ms. Smith is truly an amazing teacher and person. She is an inspiration. I hope she wins!
First of all, we want to thank you because you are a very good teacher, and we thank you for your patience and for the help you gave her during the process that Dahlia was in your class.
I couldn't agree more with Mrs. Ratner's words, Mrs. Smith is a great colleague and educator at our school!
La mejor! Se dedica de todo corazón a nuestros niños. Es una maestra y mentora fantastica , llena de vocación entregada a cada uno de sus alumnos
As a CSUN University Supervisor working with student teachers, I have had the opportunity to work with Ms. Smith multiple times. Ms. Smith mentors one student teacher almost every school year. She welcomes them into her classroom and quickly establishes a warm, caring relationship with each one. They thrive and grow under her tutelage. Her expertise in classroom strategies and management has helped each student teacher to walk away feeling confident and knowledgeable of his/her own abilities as a future educator. Ms. Smith has made a difference in each one of their lives.
Extremely happy to have Ms. Smith at our school. Great teacher with an amazing commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of the students she is truly inspiring
Sami has been a life changer for me personally as she taught me the ropes of teaching after I came back from a 7 year break. She taught me how to navigate the new curriculum and all the digital platforms that were new after COVID. She is an amazing teacher and friend. She truly loves teaching and is passionate about helping students be successful!
She's a wonderful person! I wish her luck!
Thank you for your hard work and dedication. We appreciate you!????????
Mrs. SMITH is one of a kind! She deserves this award! We all love her and so do her students.
Thank you so much Ms Smith for all your hard work at Stanley Mosk EL.
Congrats!! keep going!! ??
Ms. Smith is by far one of the sweetest and kindest teachers my kiddos have had. She has left her mark in both their hearts and is always mentioned when they speak about their favorite teachers, keep in mind my son is heading to high school and she is still one of his favorites! As a parent I’m grateful that the universe blessed my kiddos with her as their 3rd grade teacher.
Mrs. Smith is a dedicated teacher who champions students at Mosk Elementary. When my child was in her class I saw firsthand how she supports her students and helps them to improve and excel. Her work with the Theatre Club encourages students’ talents and helps build their confidence. We are lucky to have her as an educator at Mosk Elementary School.
Samantha is such an inspirational teacher! She makes me want to be better every day. I could not get through the school year without her! Rooting for you Sami!
