A+ for Tennessee’s Director of Accountability

Nashville, TN – After more than 30 years of serving Tennessee’s education system, Dr. Connie J. Smith, Executive Director of Innovation, Improvement, and Accountability for the Department of Education, is being honored with the Dr. John M. Davis Distinguished Educational Achievement Award.

Each year the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) presents the award to one outstanding individual from each state in recognition of their contributions to education, for making a significant impact on the education profession, and achievements towards educational change and improvement. One hallmark of Smith’s tenure with the state has been the development of the Tennessee School Improvement Planning Process. As the first state in the nation to consolidate planning and accountability across every school district, Smith has created a data driven decision making tool that leverages resources for students in Tennessee.

“Connie is an inspiration and strong asset to educators across Tennessee,” Education Commissioner Lana Seivers said. “I am pleased to see her accomplishments and contributions recognized by the national educational community.”

Smith has served as a special education teacher, principal, superintendent, and Associate Executive Director of the Tennessee School Boards Association. In her current position, Smith administers the state SACS program, which is housed in the Department of Education’s Office of Innovation, Improvement, and Accountability. Since her role with SACS began in 1995, participation by Tennessee schools has tripled.

“I am honored and humbled to be recognized by my peers across the nation,” said Smith. “Every day, the ability to assist educators and students in Tennessee provides me with the greatest possible reward.”

More than an outstanding Tennessee educator, Smith is also an alumna of two of Tennessee’s universities. Smith earned her Baccalaureate and Masters degrees from Tennessee Tech University and an Ed. S degree from Vanderbilt University. She also holds a Ph. D from Columbia University in New York.

For more information, contact Rachel Woods at (615) 253-1960 or Rachel.Woods@state.tn.us.