PALCS Staff Spotlight Mr. Smith
We recently had the opportunity to speak to PALCS High School Math teacher, Mr. Jeff Smith, who has been working at PALCS since 2007. Mr. Smith teaches Algebra 1B, Pre-Algebra & Geometry to students in grades 9th-12th.
Mr. Smith grew up in the small city of Greensburg located in Westmoreland County. He enjoys cheering on his favorite sports team, the Pittsburgh Pirates, and tries to attend as many games as he can during their season! During his summer breaks he takes time to relax, spend time with his nieces & nephews, and adventure through different trails on his mountain bike.
Mr. Smith earned his Bachelor of Education degree from California University of Pennsylvania in 2000. He began working at PALCS shortly after he graduated from college. While working for PALCS, he decided to pursue his Masters of Special Education Degree from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania.
Growing up he was surrounded by educators, and influenced by his mom, who was a Reading Specialist. From a very young age, Mr. Smith felt that he had a calling for a future career path in the Education field.
Math and His Students
Mr. Smith believes that here at PALCS students are able to grow and be successful in a unique way with the resources that every teacher provides. “School comes down to giving students opportunities. If you can make students feel successful and confident in what they are learning, then they will do well.” Mr. Smith connects with his students through email, phone, live virtual lessons and school events.
“I want my students to feel comfortable asking for help and guidance whenever they may need it,” said Mr. Smith. “All of my students know that if they need me for anything, they can easily contact me and I’ll get back them as quickly as I can,” he explained.
We would like to thank Mr. Smith for taking the time to speak with us and sharing his story! What a wonderful asset and educator Mr. Smith has been to the PALCS community. We are so proud and honored to have him on our team!
