Welcome to Mr. Smith's Class

Fall 2025 Syllabi

Fall Calendars

Civics

Modern World History

Journalism

Class Rubrics

Minor Assignment Grading Rubric

Notebook Grading Rubric

Supply List

1 Single Subject Notebook (a composition notebook will work)
Blue or Black ink pens and pencils
Red pens
Highlighters

About Me

Originally from Upstate New York, my family moved to South Carolina in the spring of 2019. I attended Binghamton University and received a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science in 2010. I started my Master's in Teaching degree in 2010 at the College of Saint Rose in Albany, New York, and life took my career on a different path. I completed my Master of Teaching degree from the University of Phoenix in April 2022. My professional career has been a wild ride, and I am excited to return to my chosen career path after high school.

I am passionate about Social Studies. Social Studies is more than simply a history class. Social Studies helps us learn how to be citizens in our world by studying economics, government, history, and political science. The world is changing at an unprecedented rate. As we begin to tackle 21st-century questions and problems, we must prepare with a 21st-century mindset. We must learn to utilize the technology and resources to our advantage and improvement.

We live in a financially forgotten area of the state and country. Our students must work harder to succeed than their peers in other areas of the state and nation. My goals as a teacher are founded on the belief that our students can overcome systemic disparities and inequality and become pillars for positive change in their community.

I believe integrity is one of the most essential attributes a person can possess. Academic integrity is necessary; however, it starts with personal integrity. If you are a person with integrity, you are honest not only with the people around you but with the person you are.

As such, I believe in academic integrity. Plagiarism in any form will not be tolerated. You will receive one warning if caught or suspected of plagiarism. You can make up that single assignment for 60% of the total points if that warning is issued. We will handle the first offense without any outside intervention. If plagiarism continues after the first instance, all following assignments will result in zeros, and parents and administrators will be notified. Second and subsequent offenses will not be allowed to be made up.

I want to take a moment to share my preferred method of communication so we can stay connected effectively and respectfully throughout the school year.

To ensure clear and consistent communication, I will primarily use email to share important updates, classroom information, and any concerns that may arise. Email allows us to document conversations, respond thoughtfully, and communicate at times that are most convenient for everyone involved.

Please make it a priority to check your email regularly and encourage your student to do the same.

Out of respect for your time and daily routines, I do not make phone calls unless absolutely necessary. I reserve phone calls for urgent situations—such as emergencies involving a student’s immediate physical well-being—where more immediate, direct communication is warranted.

Thank you for your understanding and support. I look forward to working together for a successful school year!