LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Melissa Smith was nominated by Steve Cumming, the PTO president.

"Melissa has led Central since its transition to a new building in 2006, nurturing every class of students along the way," said Cumming. "I am a frequent visitor to Central and witness first hand the positive spirit and camaraderie she has built among students, teachers and staff.  She never misses a chance to engage students passing in the hall to ask about their day or what subject they are working on in class.  She truly cares."

Mrs. Smith leads by example and works daily to make sure other staff members see themselves as missionaries first, and educators second. To her, the children are always champions.

Mrs. Smith and her staff recognize students daily for their "Bullpup Best." When a student student learns something new, helps classmates, or shows good manners, they are recognized for their actions.  This culture of doing your best permeates through the teachers, staff, and students, creating a great learning community.  

During her time as principal, Mrs. Smith has mentored several teachers and assistant principals who have moved up to higher positions. Her mentorship was certainly the key, proving she is in exactly the right place, doing the right job.

"As PTO president, I am part of planning for several staff events throughout the school year," said Cumming. "When celebrations of staff are discussed, Mrs. Smith...makes sure all teachers and staff are taken care of.  It doesn't matter what their role is, she makes sure everyone is acknowledged when that time comes.  She never leaves anyone out.  As a PTO, we sometimes meet on a Wednesday after school.  When a meeting drifts towards 5pm, she asks to leave early because of her church commitments.  I know this is important to her, as she considers 'loving on her babies  at Central,' her ministry."