Real Principal Talk

I have 34 years of service as an educator in the public school setting as a teacher, administrator, and central office administrator. Check out my free resources at https://substack.com/@kellismith310 10 years teaching 17 years as a school administrator 2 as Educational Software Program Manager 5 years as a district director

BA in Education MA in Educational Leadership Doctorate in Executive Leadership

Dr. Kelli Smith Kelli Smith, Ed.D., is an accomplished educational leader with over 30 years of experience in K-12 education. She holds a Doctorate in Executive Leadership for Educational Equity from the University of Colorado Denver, with her research focusing on the impact of Professional Learning Communities on teacher collective efficacy. With a Master's in Educational Leadership and a Bachelor's in Elementary Education, her academic foundation underscores her passion for fostering equitable learning environments. Currently, Dr. Smith serves as a Director in Student Support Services in the Douglas County School District, where she spearheads systemic initiatives, including the district-wide implementation of an Integrated Multi-Tiered System of Supports (IMTSS) framework, and ASCA-aligned counseling programs. Her work involves leading a district team responsible for supporting schools and leaders with training on systems to ensure all students are supported and able to learn at high levels. Dr. Smith is a leader in implementing transformative district-wide initiatives designed to support the whole child. She successfully designed and led the implementation of a comprehensive IMTSS framework tailored to the district's strategic goals, ensuring all students receive academic, social-emotional, behavioral, and physical support. Key elements of her work include: 1) Conducting leadership training on universal supports and system processes to foster shared leadership and data-driven learning communities. 2) Developing and implementing a three-year plan for district-wide ASCA-aligned comprehensive counseling programs across 90 schools, with 80% of schools on track for full implementation by the second year. 3) Designing training and coaching programs for 56 school nurses to support wellness initiatives aligned with Colorado health standards and provide targeted support to students. 4) Revising district policies to align with new legislation and developing training for district leaders to ensure compliance and understanding current educational policy and laws. Dr. Smith's leadership ensures a cohesive, data-informed approach to supporting both students and staff, empowering school communities to thrive and adapt to changing educational landscapes. Dr. Smith's work extends beyond her district role. She is a recognized thought leader, frequently presenting at national and state conferences on topics such as trauma-informed practices, resilience, culturally responsive teaching, multi-tiered systems of support and successful mental health supports through transformation of schools counseling programming. Her accolades include the 2023 Colorado School Counselor Advocate of the Year Award and numerous recognitions for her contributions to academic excellence and school climate improvement. As a dedicated mentor and educator, Dr. Smith is passionate about developing future leaders and creating innovative systems that ensure all students and staff can thrive. Her work bridges research with practice, driving meaningful change in educational systems to meet the diverse needs of communities. She resides in Parker, Colorado with her husband and two teenage daughters, where her commitment to equity and wellness continues to inspire those she leads and supports. See more information @ https://realprincipaltalk.podia.com/