Dr. Tammy Smith

Education

• B.S., Elementary Education, Mississippi State University
• M.A., Elementary Education, Mississippi College
• Ed.S., Educational Leadership, Mississippi College
• Ph.D., Educational Leadership, Mississippi College

Dr. Tammy Smith serves as an undergraduate chair and assistant professor of elementary teacher education at Belhaven University. She is responsible for teaching undergraduate-level courses in elementary education, mentoring teacher candidates, and contributing to curriculum development.

Before joining Belhaven University, Dr. Smith amassed over 32 years of experience in the public schools in Mississippi as a teacher and principal. She was the Principal at River City Early College High School, where she developed a pioneering educational structure and achieved remarkable student performance metrics. She also served as Principal at Bowmar Elementary School and held various teaching and administrative positions, contributing significantly to the district's success.

Dr. Smith enjoys reading, gardening, hiking, and participating in community service. Dr. Smith is married with five children and values spending quality time with her family.

Areas of Expertise

• Teacher preparation
• Educational leadership
• Curriculum development
• Data-Driven instruction
• Early college high school models

Teaching Focus

• Educational leadership
• Teacher preparation
• Innovative educational models
• Preparing future school leaders to implement effective strategies and foster academic excellence.

Professional Licensure

• Licensed School Administrator in Mississippi

Scholarly Contributions and Professional Affiliations

• Presenter at the Mississippi Association of School Superintendents and the National Association of Elementary School Principals conferences.
• Presenter at Stephen Covey’s Leader in Me Conferences
• Member of the International Center for Leadership in Education and Franklin Covey Education.
• Member of Mississippi Professional Educators.

Awards and Recognition

• Stephen Covey’s “Leader in Me” Lighthouse Status for River City Early College High School and Bowmar Elementary School
• Governor's Award of Distinction
• Project Fit America Grant Recipient
• Presidential Award for Excellence in Teaching Math and Science
• District Teacher of the Year
• Chamber of Commerce District Teacher of the Year
• District Principal of the Year