Leadership Update
Nancy Smith, Executive Director, Special Education
Congratulations Nancy Smith, Executive Director, Special Education Services
The Yakima School District is proud to announce the hiring of Nancy Smith as the Executive Director of Special Education Services, beginning July 1.
Nancy Smith’s career has come full circle as she returns to special education, where her career began 31 years ago. It has been her honor to serve as the building principal and assistant principal at Roosevelt Elementary for the past six years. She is excited to take on this challenge and impact teaching and learning for students with disabilities.
Prior to moving to Washington, Nancy spent 25 years educating children in Florida, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Her experience spans Kindergarten through college serving as a classroom teacher, reading coach for students and teachers, special education teacher, presenter and curriculum writer for districts and states.
Nancy received a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Cumberland University, a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction/Special Education from Tennessee Technological University, and an administration and leadership endorsement from Cumberland University.
During Nancy’s career, she has received recognition for her efforts in education.
She has been selected as a building, district, and regional Teacher of the Year. She believes her greatest accomplishment to be the letters that she receives from previous students who share the impact she had on their lives. Mrs. Smith strives to instill in each student the desire to push beyond boundaries and become the greatest person he or she can be.
Mrs. Smith and her husband, Craig, have two adult daughters. When not at work Nancy enjoys the refuge of their home and the beautiful weather in Yakima.