Eric Smith graduated from West Alabama, received his Masters from Alabama A & M and his EDS at UAB. As principal of West Jasper Elementary for the past 6 years, his 80% poverty school is achieving at levels which compare to the top schools in the state. Eric has led parents and community members to rally around his school showing support beyond expectations.
Eric has a long list of professional experiences that have helped to mold him into an outstanding principal. He has completed Alabama Reading Initiative training for teachers and principals. He has completed the Leadership Walker County Academy and the Alabama Leadership Academy. Eric’s school received the Dispelling the Myth Award presented by the Education Trust Foundation 2004. His leadership and school have been showcased in the publication Working Toward Excellence. His school has won the Sixth Annual National School Change Award. West Jasper is also listed as a Banner School and Torchbearer School. Mr. Smith, along with personnel teamed with Alabama State Department of Education personnel to present a workshop on “Lighting the Way to Student Achievement”. West Jasper was among 113 AYP Honor Roll Schools across the state and among 43 Meeting the Challenge Schools. They also were among 44 Alabama schools receiving the 21st Century Community Learning Center grants. Eric is a member of the Governor’s Congress Taskforce, as well as, a member of the Alabama Leadership Academy and Teacher Leader Network Advisory Committee.
Eric also serves his community in many other ways. He is on the Department of Human Resource Board, Hospital Advisory Board, is a member of the Kiwanis club, has been involved with the new Big Brothers, Big Sisters program and is a member of the 26th Street Baptist Church where he serves as deacon, Sunday school teacher and bible study leader. These are just a few areas he serves in.
Eric wants to see children do well and to grow up to be an asset to our community. He is willing to go the extra mile to make sure this happens. He always has an encouraging word to deliver. He serves his community and his school with pride but above all he is a family man. He has a wife and 3 wonderful children that he is very dedicated to as well.
