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Carmel, IN – Mark Smith, Assistant Principal at Clay Middle School, has been named the 2020 Carmel Clay Schools Assistant Principal of the Year.
Mr. Smith received the surprise announcement at Clay Middle School, complete with a decorative yard sign and a celebratory car parade. Clay Middle School Principal Todd Crosby, Superintendent Dr. Michael Beresford and many other school administrators and staff were present to congratulate Mr. Smith.
An educator of 32 years, Mr. Smith began his career at Carmel Clay Schools in 1989 as English/Journalism Teacher at Clay Middle School. In 2004, he became Assistant Principal for Carmel Middle School, and in 2010, was hired as an Assistant Principal for Clay Middle School. Mr. Smith earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism with a minor in English from Ball State University. He earned his Masters of Education from Indiana Wesleyan.
One nomination described Mr. Smith as a dedicated educator who is an advocate for both students and teachers. “Mark goes beyond the call of duty to ensure every situation is handled with professionalism, integrity, and kindness. I can honestly say the teachers and staff at Clay Middle School look to Mark for guidance, support and friendship. He has high expectations and holds all constituents to the highest level, but does so with care and concern for the well-being of all students and staff. It is always a pleasure to partner with Mark on any initiative, because I know it will be thoughtfully planned out and well executed.”
Clay Middle School Principal Todd Crosby was honored to recognize Mr. Smith. “In my 26 years in public education, I have worked with several kinds of people, but perhaps no one quite like Mark,” said Crosby. “I have had the pleasure of working with him the last eight years at Clay Middle School and watching him grow and evolve into an outstanding administrator. He is a professional through and through and always puts the well-being of our students and staff first. He has very a servant heart and models what it means to care about people. I am very lucky to have the opportunity to work alongside him as I learn something new each and every day.”