My name is Joseph L. Smith and I am an Academic Instructional Coach at Gateway STEM high school. The 2022-2023 school year marks my 1st year at Gateway STEM high school, 11th school year with SLPS, and 14th year in education. I am a Truman State University (TSU) alum. - I earned my Bachelors in English from Truman in 2007 and my Masters in Education from Truman in 2009. I currently hold educational certifications in Special Education (k-12/ Cross Categorical), Special Reading (k-12), Mathematics (5-9), Elementary Education, and English (9-12). In 2019, I earned my second Master's degree (Elementary Education) from the University of Missouri- St. Louis.  As I consider myself a lifelong learner; I believe that learning never stops and all new knowledge will help me make the experiences of all students more fulfilling. I enjoy spending time with my family (my beautiful wife and 2 amazing kids) , writing poetry, studying and making music, chess, working out, and playing on my PS4.

As an educator, I believe that all students are capable of learning when they are in a positive and encouraging environment. I think that learning can be fun and useful for all people, no matter their age, race, gender, or background. Nothing brings me greater joy than being able to say that I had a positive effect on a young person's life. I hope that I can continue inspiring our youth/ our future as long as God allows me to.

Thank you for reading- if you have any questions for me, feel free to email me at joseph.smith@slps.org- I look forward to speaking with you.

                                                                                                                      Mr. Smith