Superintendent Smith's Inspirational Teacher

It’s Teacher Appreciation Week and a time to reflect back on educators who made a difference in your life. For Superintendent Dr. Wade Smith it was his 5th grade teacher, Mr. Jeff Hicks.

Superintendent Smith has stayed in touch with Mr. Hicks over the years and recalls he was one of the first to congratulate him on being named superintendent in Walla Walla. Superintendent Smith distinctly remembers how Mr. Hicks inspired a love for reading, curiosity and self confidence.

Superintendent Smith says he was a somewhat shy student prior to entering his classroom, but remembers leaving that year a much more confident and engaged learner. Although Superintendent Smith didn’t know at the time that he wanted to be a teacher when he grew up, later in college he came to credit Mr. Hicks as the influence that inspired him to be a teacher, and one who he wanted to emulate.

Take time today to think back on a teacher who was there for you.

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PHOTO: Jeff Hicks