Conway Public Schools is proud to announce that Kait Smith, a dedicated educator at Conway High School, has been named the 2025–2026 District Teacher of the Year.
Ms. Smith teaches 10th–12th grade ESL Sheltered Biology, ESL Sheltered Environmental Science, and serves as an ESL Designee. She has been in education for 11 years—five years teaching high school science and two years serving in her current ESL support role. Her work has been instrumental in supporting multilingual learners and ensuring they have equitable access to a high-quality science education.
“Kait Smith represents the very best of our profession,” said Dr. Jeff Collum, Superintendent of Conway Public Schools. “Her passion for students, commitment to excellence, and innovative approach to teaching—especially in supporting our multilingual learners—make her an incredible asset to Conway Public Schools. We are proud to recognize her as our 2025–2026 District Teacher of the Year and grateful for the meaningful impact she makes every day in our classrooms.”
Upon receiving the award, Kait shared her heartfelt gratitude:
“District Teacher of the Year!! Are you kidding me?!?
This recognition is truly an honor that leaves me speechless. When I look around our district, I know there are educators pouring their hearts into their classrooms every day. To be selected among such remarkable teachers is both overwhelming and inspiring.
Teaching has never been just a profession for me but a purpose. This job is one that challenges and fulfills me daily. This award doesn't belong to me alone but to every student who has taught me as much as I've taught them and to supportive colleagues who've shared their wisdom and encouragement.
I'm excited to use this platform to highlight the success of our ESL Sheltered Program and celebrate the hard work and dedication of our entire team. I'm honored to represent our district's educators and the purpose that brings us all to the classroom each day: making a difference in our students' lives.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
Each year, Conway Public Schools celebrates outstanding educators from every campus. The following teachers were selected by their peers as 2025–2026 Campus Teachers of the Year:
Sallie Cone Preschool – Addison "Paige" Ivins
Carolyn Lewis Elementary – Lindsay Spicer
Ellen Smith Elementary – Steven Moore
Woodrow Cummins Elementary – Reagan Priester
Julia Lee Moore Elementary – Taylor Columbus
Marguerite Vann Elementary – Carrie Vick
Ida Burns Elementary – Caitlin Church
Preston & Florence Mattison Elementary – Rhonda Boyd
Theodore Jones Elementary – Ansley Prout
Jim Stone Elementary – Sharla McKim
Courtway Middle School – Abby Smith
Carl Stuart Middle School – Kristine Spears
Ruth Doyle Middle School – Angela Rogers
Simon Middle School – Ashleigh Castles
Conway Junior High School – Cheyenne Kuhn
Conway High School – Kait Smith
We commend each of these educators for the difference they make in their schools and in the lives of their students. Together, they exemplify the spirit of excellence and dedication that help Conway Public Schools ascend.