Kelsey Smith

headshot of Kelsey Smith
headshot of Kelsey Smith

Kelsey Smith is a special education teacher for elementary students on a modified curriculum in Nashville, Tennessee. Prior to her current teaching job, she spent one year teaching in an inclusive Kindergarten classroom.  Kelsey completed her bachelor’s degree in special education from Peabody College at Vanderbilt University and is a proud Commodore. Although she is still a newer teacher, she is looking forward to sharing her insights and classroom experiences with the CEC community. She also shares more ideas on her classroom Instagram account, @exceptionalelementary. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time outdoors and eating Mexican food. 

How I Encourage Independence in the Classroom

By 
Kelsey Smith
  on 
January 15, 2020
How I Encourage Independence in the Classroom
Student reach the greatest levels of independence when all staff members are working together to teach and encourage new independent skills. Here are three ways I encourage independence in my classroom and work to build my students skills each and every day. Read more >
Category:
From the Field
Topics:
Positive School Climate
Independency/Life Skills
Classroom Management
Self-Determination
Social Skills
Student Engagement

3 Ways I Build Strong Relationships With My Students’ Families

By 
Kelsey Smith
  on 
November 20, 2019
3 Ways I Build Strong Relationships With My Students’ Families
As a special education teacher, I know that the majority of my job is centered around helping my students learn, grow, and thrive. Something I didn’t realize going into the field, however, was just how critical building strong relationships with my students’ families would be to achieving this goal. Read more >
Category:
From the Field
Topics:
Working with Families
Teacher Effectiveness

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