History of The Academy

For over 40 years, Elizabeth M. Smith taught disadvantaged children in New York's Brentwood Public School District. She was recognized as an inspired teacher, innovative educator and visionary leader whose teaching philosophy incorporated interpersonal skills and adherence to core values into a student's educational experience. Mrs. Smith passed away in 1999.

Inspired by their grandmother's legacy and the effectiveness of her innovative teaching strategies, Thomas and Tammy Smith sought to honor her educational vision, values and philosophy. They enlisted the support of a group of community leaders committed to Mrs. Smith's educational mission to help them establish the Smith Leadership Academy.

Founded in 2003, the Smith Leadership Academy continues to honor Mrs. Smith's legacy by espousing her educational philosophies. The Academy serves some 200 of Boston's inner-city youth, many of whom have been underserved and marginalized in the past, and develops them into high-achieving students of good character who use problem-solving, communication and interpersonal skills to inspire others.

In June 2010, the Academy will celebrate as its first class of graduates receive their high school diplomas and move on to college, taking with them the school's philosophy of character development, leadership and community citizenship.