Smith, a member of the school board since 2008 and a 1970 graduate of Gainesville High School, is described in a news release from the Gainesville City School System as a strong advocate of programs that support students with special needs. Those programs include the Rehabilitation Institute of North Georgia (RING), Randy and Friends (a Christian-based ministry that advocates for individuals with disabilities), and the new Gainesville High School PAES (Practical Assessment Exploration System) Lab (an interactive, hands-on lab that teaches special needs students how to successfully adapt to the workplace environment).
"Mr. Smith is an avid supporter of all things [related] to Gainesville [City School System]," said Stacia Dillin, GHS Special Education Coordinator, "[He] will frequently drop by schools and eat lunch with the students and get to know teachers. He always makes a point to drop by our self-contained rooms to shake our students' hands and tell them 'hello'."
Mike Enright, GCSS Special Education Director, confirmed Smith's advocacy of the GCSS Special Education program and his dedication to lending his support whenever needed. "Mr. Smith is simply one of the best," Enright added.
