My name is Chad Smith, and I am extremely honored to be the Principal of Whitnel Elementary School! 

I attended Appalachian State University where I majored in Specific Learning Disabilities. I graduated from ASU in 1999.  My first teaching job was at Jacobs Fork Middle School in Catawba County. After a few years, I moved up to the high school level to teach and coach at Fred T. Foard. During this time, I enrolled at Gardner-Webb University for School Administration. I was a teacher, EC Program Specialist, and Assistant Principal/Athletic Director during my time at FTF.  I also spent a year at West Caldwell High School as an EC Program Specialist.  Furthermore, I was blessed to spend three and half years at Happy Valley School as Principal. I also served as principal for South Caldwell High School for several years.