Jessica Smith

• Position: agricultural science teacher, FFA advisor and Career and Technical Education Department Chair
• Degrees & Alma Mater: agricultural development and production system with a minor in education at Stephen F. Austin.
• School Activities: FFA advisor
• Years at Caney Creek: 12
• Years Teaching: 13

How would other people describe your high-school self?

Quiet, nerd, Country Girl.

Was there a career you wanted to pursue OR pursued before teaching?

I wanted to be a veterinarian. 

Tell us about how you got into teaching.

So my mother and  grandmother were teachers, so I always knew that it was an option, you know, but I did it.

What do you do outside of school for fun? Why?

We still have a family farm down the road. So I spend a lot of time on the farm

When people get to know you, what are they most surprised to learn about you? (If needed) What is your hidden talent? (If needed) What is something you know a weird amount about that isn’t related to something you teach?

I think everyone is always interested in what I do what I teach, because when you say you’re a teacher, they just think the core classes maths, science, history, English. So when you start talking about career prep, like that’s, that’s what surprises them and like engages them and you spend most of your life working

Tell us the story about what you are most proud of yourself for.

My children. I didn’t mention them as my hobby but for sure they’re raising them is a hobby

Who is someone you are thankful for and why?

I am thankful for my husband. He is an amazing life partner. Before we had children, I would tell people the only thing we had in common was our faith and our love of food. But just as a best friend and life partner. It’s always nice to know without a doubt that there’s someone in your corner and he’s that person.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

I would say to find life balance because I still don’t have it. So I think if I started earlier that would be easier or better

What do you hope to be remembered for?

 I hope that I’m remembered for my kindness and my care of people.

What’s on your bucket list? (If needed) What aspirations do you have for the future?

I’d like to travel. But then I have children. So it’ll be a while. But travel, meet new people go to new places.

Favorites

• Food: Tex-Mex
• Restaurant: Margarita and Peppers
• Music: Christian music
• TV Show: True Crime shows
• Movie: “Braveheart” 
• Book: “Harry Potter” by J.K Rowling
• Teacher: Jesus