It’s a new school year, and Ms. Smith’s second year leading Kenwood High School as the principal. She has deeply rooted ties with Kenwood stretching back years. It’s the strong values and connection found at Kenwood that draws back people like Ms. Smith, and shapes Kenwood into the welcoming community it’s known for.
Ms. Smith attended Kenwood as an IB student, and graduated in 2001. She also began her teaching career right here at KHS! She taught as an English teacher before taking on her current position as the principal.
Ms. Smith was inspired most by her 10th and 11th grade English teacher, who was also her field hockey coach, and someone she later babysat for. Those early years in high school showed her how much teachers care, both in and outside the classroom and taught her the power of relationships.
Years later as principal she sees similar values reflected in Kenwood’s teachers and students. Last year she witnessed the kindness of an upper classmen to a freshmen that she hopes reflects the building culture and community here at Kenwood. “Back in December of last year, a senior used their own money to buy a coat for a freshman in need. There was no recognition, no thanks for the student- just pure kindness, and that one act to me embodies the heart of Kenwood,” Ms. Smith shared.
Looking ahead to this new year, Principal Smith hopes students carry the lessons of high school with them, not just the academics, but the experiences that shape their character. As we continue to kick off the school year, Ms. Smith reminds us to “Start strong, create great habits in the beginning of the school year so you have a great foundation to fall back on.” We’re not even a month in to the new school year and it’s a great time to begin working towards our individual goals.
“Live the life you want to live,” she advises. “There are rules. No directions. You decide what’s right for you.” As Kenwood continues to grow into a space where students and staff connect across differences, she hopes to build on that legacy.
