REUBEN B. MYERS CANTON SCHOOL OF ARTS & SCIENCES TEACHER OF THE YEAR

Lepeacher Smith is a kindergarten teacher at Reuben B. Myers Canton School of Arts and Sciences. She is a native of Canton, MS, where she was born and raised, and a graduate of Canton High School in 1997 with honors. Mrs. Smith received her bachelor's and master’s degrees at Thee Jackson State University in Master of Arts Teaching. She also earned another Master’s in Early Childhood Education from Walden University.

She is the proud daughter of Mr. and Mrs. (the late) Charles and Mary Johnson. Mrs. Smith has been married for 19 years to Ricky Smith, and together they have two beautiful children, Layla and Ricky, Jr. Mrs. Smith attends Priestley Chapel M.B. Church under the leadership of Rev. Robert E. McCallum, where she serves on many ministries in the church. Mrs. Smith is a member of the phenomenal ladies of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., a board member of Beyoutiful Ministry, Inc., and a charter member of Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. (TLOD). She loves giving back to her community, which is the city of Canton.

Mrs. Smith began her teaching career at Reuben B. Myers CSAS as a teacher assistant for 2 years, 1 year as a 1st-grade teacher, and 6 years as a kindergarten teacher, where she currently serves. Mrs. Smith has been recognized several times as teacher of the month at Reuben B. Myers, and now her dedication and commitment to her students have earned her the title of 2023-2024 Teacher of the Year for Reuben B. Myers Canton School of Arts & Sciences. Mrs. Smith’s daily goal is to inspire her students to grow and learn. She has the skillful ability to motivate and encourage students to advance past their expectations both academically and socially. Her favorite educational quote is by Nelson Mandela: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”