Social Studies teacher Mark Smith is an all around Spartan

Teacher and coach Mark Smith helps Freshman Spartan Julia Turnbow improve her golf swing. Photo by Henna Danek

Mark Smith has a full plate here at Thomas Jefferson, spending his time on the green and in the classroom. “This is my thirteenth year teaching here at TJ,” said Smith. “This year I am teaching U.S. History and Ap U.S. History. In the past I’ve taught most of the Social Studies classes,”  he explained.

Before coming to TJ Smith taught at Lake Middle School.  “I taught and coached youth basketball there,” said Smith. “We won the middle school title my first year.” Smith decided he loved teaching so much that he continued a career in Education. “My favorite part about teaching is seeing the improvements students make throughout the year. Their maturation process, not only academically, but socially as well,” said Smith.

Sophomore Laine Stewart, a student of Smith’s, had nothing but nice things to say about her coach and teacher. “I’m in his US History class and I enjoy it. His sarcasm keeps the students engaged and makes the class much more enjoyable,” stated Stewart. “Not only that, but Smith wears Hawaiian shirts every Thursday, which is so cool,” said Stewart.

On top of being a social studies teacher, Smith is also the Head Coach of the Girls’ Golf Team. “I’ve coached tennis, soccer, baseball and basketball in the past and I currently coach golf at Thomas Jefferson,” said Smith. “My favorite part about coaching, much like teaching, is seeing the progress everyone makes over the season,” said Smith. Senior Golfer, Henna Danek, said, “Smith gives us great advice on how to improve our game.”

Smith says he enjoys teaching his golfers how to improve their game. “With a sport like golf you can really see the improvement in the athletes,” explained Smith.

Freshman golf team member Julia Turnbow said, “Smith is a great coach and really supportive of all of us. He especially makes the new players feel welcome.”

Smith doesn’t just coach golf, he enjoys playing the game as well. “I am addicted to the game. I will play every chance that I get,” said Smith. “I enjoy the challenges of all courses, but I belong to the Kennedy Mens’ Club so I spend a lot of time at that course, which works out since it is TJ’s home golf course,” explained Smith. Although golf is a prominent part of Smith’s life, some people have no idea what golf entails, so Smith gave us a little insight. “Golf is a constant challenge that involves patience. Every swing is a new problem that you need to overcome. The game is much more mental and psychological than other sports, and a good part of the competition is internal,” explained Smith.

It is clear that Smith’s golf philosophy has rubbed off on his students.  “Sports are a very prevalent aspect of your life throughout high school. You meet some of your closest friends through sports, and that’s exactly the environment that Smith provides,” said Senior, Amanda Koziol. Carefully balancing teaching and coaching, Smith creates a positive and productive outcome.

Between teaching, coaching, and playing golf himself, Smith is a prominent member of Thomas Jefferson’s faculty. His thirteen years have been rewarding for both himself and his students.