Hello, my name is Norma Smith.  I was born and raised in Catawba County, North Carolina.  

I graduated from Campbell University in 1978 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Early Childhood/Elementary Education.  I began my teaching career in Catawba County Schools, teaching classes from kindergarten through 5th grade. 

 In 2005, I worked with the Orlena Puckett Institute on “Project Sparkle”, which was a children’s interests-based curriculum development program.  The units taught in my preschool classroom were compiled into a resource for use by PreK teachers. My most successful unit was on food and nutrition. The children continued asking questions and learning for more than 6 weeks. The unit ended with a tea party prepared by the children, served to more than 30 parents and special guests. The Hickory Daily Record published an article on our accomplishments in May 2005.

 Between teaching assignments, I have worked as a sales and marketing assistant, a retail store manager, a grocery store manager, an accounting associate manager, a customer service agent, a healthcare advocate, and a certified water aerobics instructor.  These work experiences have added a richness to my teaching skills and classroom management.

Most recently, I taught preschool for 10 years before returning to the Kindergarten classroom. This year, I will begin my 7th year teaching kindergarten  here at Central Elementary.

I enjoy writing poetry, children’s stories and music. I also enjoy singing, cooking, reading, learning to speak Spanish, gardening, hiking, and watching professional football.

I enjoy sharing my passion for learning and creativity with my students.  We learn a great deal from each other as we interact together every day. When my students embrace the ideas and skills I teach, I am confident they are prepared to continue their journey through kindergarten and beyond to become confident and successful global citizens.

Are you ready to join me for a great year of learning? Let’s go!

Norma Smith