Jill Leigh Smith, Orchard Ridge Elementary
DSA Award Recipient — Elementary School Teachers

How does your heart feel? By asking this simple question, Orchard Ridge kindergarten teacher Jill Leigh Smith helps children take pride in their accomplishments and responsibility for their actions.

Her belief in the capabilities of very young children is evident throughout her model classroom. Her practice is razor sharp. Her tools range from magnetic letters, to rap songs, to American Sign Language. Jill challenges each student to reach beyond their grasp.

Her methods have been observed and studied closely by colleagues and academics. As a passionate learner herself, she's eager to share her learning in professional development settings and as a mentor and advisor in her building.

Jill's desire to meet the needs of her students knows no bounds. She's been known to schedule parent/teacher conferences at students' homes and conduct summer tutoring sessions at a neighborhood library, setting up transportation for kids. She initiated a fifth grade basketball program.

In addition to her ability to inspire students' intellectual development, Ms. Smith has a special talent for nurturing their souls. In a remarkable classroom ritual, students identify and make note of their special talents on paper, wrapping them like gifts to give to others. Teacher Jill Leigh Smith is truly a gift to Madison's children.

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