Faculty Tribute: Maddy Smith

   Ms. Maddy Smith came to Lawrenceville in the fall of 2021 as an English fellow from Grinnell College. Yet throughout her two years at Lawrenceville, we have known her as so much more than just a teacher. From play director for Our Town and Men on Boats, English teacher, and advisor and duty member of the Kennedy House, she has been an integral part of our school community. In her last year of teaching, I was lucky enough to be a student in her A Period English class. English has always been a subject I have had trouble with, and Ms. Smith has always been there to set me on the correct path, putting her students’ success above hers. On duty in Kennedy, you can always find her helping students with their research papers or satirical essays. While teaching remains her first priority, I have learned throughout the year that Ms. Smith is a great person to talk to for advice due to her sincerity and  honesty. As I struggled a little bit in writing during English class this year, Ms. Smith always took her time to help her students, no matter what she had to do. She has helped me throughout the year, during consultation and study hall, to make me the best student I can be, and I am so thankful to have a teacher who cares so deeply about her students. Even though this is not a common gesture, this moment is emblematic of how much she cares about the success of her students. Ms. Smith has been a mentor for me during my time at Lawrenceville and whilst she is leaving, I will make sure to use all the lessons she taught me to become the best person I can be.