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Exceptional Educator makes math easy for students to understand

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Jessica Smith, a math teacher at Mehlville High School, received the Exceptional Educator Award from the Affton-Lemay Chamber of Commerce. This award recognizes teachers from schools in the 63125 ZIP code for professional excellence in the classroom and their dedication to students.
 
Jessica Smith leads a lesson
IMAGE: Smith leads a lesson with a class of College Algebra students.


Smith has worked at Mehlville High School for the past 17 years. She has taught nearly every math class during that time, including college algebra and geometry this school year. 

“The students are my favorite part of the job because they’re all so much fun and so different,” said Smith. “I also love the culture here. It’s a place that feels like home and makes you want to stay.” 

Students say that Smith is exceptional at making math easy to understand.

“Ms. Smith is a kind teacher who makes sure that everyone is understanding what she’s teaching,” said Reagan, an MHS student. “She gets to know each student's learning habits to make sure they don’t struggle.”

The impact that Smith has on her students goes beyond the walls of her classroom.

“She’s great at breaking down math and explaining how she got from one part of her answer to another,” said Gavin, a student. “She’s also a teacher that I have been able to go for not only math but also other things I dealt with during the school year.” 

After 17 years at MHS, Smith has cemented herself as an integral part of the school community.

“Ms. Smith is always willing to help any student or colleague,” said Dr. Jason Landherr, Mehlville High School principal. “She always volunteers for different committees and helps out at sporting events. She cares about the community and wants to help students reach their full potential.”

Jessica Smith at the Chamber of Commerce banquet
IMAGE: Smith at the chamber gala with Dr. Jason Landherr, Mehlville High School principal; Dr. Jeff Haug, superintendent of schools; Dr. Brian Metteer, Mehlville High School assistant principal; and Dr. Jeff Bresler, assistant superintendent - secondary.


Smith was among 9 teachers from the area to receive the award on January 25 at the chamber’s Annual Awards and Dinner Auction Gala. 

“Receiving this award is humbling because I don’t think I do anything out of the ordinary that any other teacher wouldn’t do," said Smith. “I always try to help people. If I didn’t help someone when I knew I could, I would feel like I wasn’t doing my job.”