A familiar face in the Batesville School District (BSD) is returning after being named the district’s new athletics director.
According to a BSD release, Smith’s connection with the district dates back to 1982, when he began his journey as an educator and coach, a role he held until 2018. He returned to the district in 2020, serving as a full-time substitute until 2022.
“Returning to the Batesville School District feels like coming home,” Smith said in the release. “I’m thrilled to be back where my journey began, and I’m eager to contribute to the tradition of excellence that Batesville is known for.”
“We can’t wait to see Stu continue to help our program grow,” said Batesville Schools Superintendent Dr. Ken James. “His many years of servant leadership, dedication to our community, and love of the students and athletics will undoubtedly inspire our students and coaches.”
Smith’s extensive coaching experience includes 12 years as a track and field coach, 11 years in baseball, and one year as head football coach, among 37 years as an assistant coach. His achievements as a coach are noteworthy with numerous conference championships, state championships, and accolades such as the Arkansas Activities Association Coach of the Year and National Federation Arkansas Girls Track Coach of the Year.
Beyond coaching, Smith has been a passionate educator, teaching various social studies classes and earning recognition as the 2017 Batesville Area Educator of the Year.
Aside from his contributions to athletics, Smith has been an active member of the community, serving as a former member of the Arkansas House of Representatives and participating in various community organizations. He has received awards and recognition from organizations such as the Arkansas Truckers Association, Arkansas Chamber of Commerce, and the Batesville Area Athletic Hall of Fame.
A Lyon College graduate, Smith is married to Carol Miller Smith, a Batesville High School graduate. Together, they have three sons who graduated from Batesville High School and four grandsons, two of whom attend Batesville Schools.
Images provided by Batesville School District and file source
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