Suzanne Smith
Current: I have lived in Jackson Hole since 1999! I am part of an active family of 4--with 2 middle school-aged kids and a husband who is a musician and an awesome partner. I love to snowboard, hike around in the mountains, float rivers, practice yoga, and spend time with family and friends.
Schooling: I am from the East Coast (MD and CT) but attended the American School in London (ASL) during my middle school years, which is where I learned to love the arts, traveling, and learning (most notably the French language and Algebra!). I was a gymnast and AP student in high school in Annapolis, MD. I graduated from University of Washington (Seattle) with double degrees in Biochemistry and French. I earned my Master’s in Education in 2007, with “highly qualified” endorsements in secondary Mathematics and Science.
Education Profession: I have been a teacher and tutor since 2006. I love working with students of all ages! My current project is an ELL endorsement to my teaching license through University of Wyoming, which is valuable and interesting work! I have been National Board Certified as of 2019--another very worthwhile pursuit in terms of professional growth and learning. I have been in my current position since 2013.
Working at Summit: At the small community here at Summit, we invite students to join us in a welcoming, family-style atmosphere. We want our students to feel a sense of belonging, and we also honor each student’s place in their individual academic journey. We support students where they need it--perhaps academically, socially, or emotionally. In my Math classes, I strive to meet students where they are and build confidence and capacity so they can achieve. My message to students is that they can learn anything, and Math is a practice, just like everything else in life. I emphasize numeracy, vocabulary fluency, and organization while teaching grade level standards. I also teach a unique Personal Finance class where students learn and practice real world Mathematics. Every single day, I learn something new about Math or about learning in general, and I am always open to learning more. I LOVE when people contact me with ideas or ways they would like to contribute to Summit’s math program.
