Smith returns to Coshocton to teach, raise family
Smith
COSHOCTON – Analea Smith loves her hometown.
“You couldn’t ask for a better place to raise a family,” she said.
Smith graduated from River View High School in 2002. She went on to earn a Bachelor’s of Science in Education with a concentration in integrated science and a minor in biology from Bowling Green State University. Then she obtained her master’s in educational technology from Dakota State University.
“So many teachers influenced me along the way, especially my science teachers in high school and junior high and I had the privilege of teaching with some of them when I first started my career,” Smith said.
She will soon be headed back for her 12th year of teaching at River View.
“I enjoy every minute of teaching there,” Smith said. “We have a family atmosphere. Our people are some of the best around this area. They are always caring and giving.”
At River View, Smith teaches college prep biology and college prep human anatomy and physiology.
“I like the different things you get to discover and learn about with science,” she said. “I especially like human anatomy and physiology. I love learning about how the body works and how much it has to do. It’s awesome. I like dissecting too. I’m one of those people who think the grosser, the better.”
Volunteerism also is a big part of her life. Smith is one of the advisors for student council at River View and is a 15-year 4-H advisor with Active Achievers 4-H Club.
“My oldest is a Cloverbud this year,” she said. “He’s been showing every species imaginable at the fair. He loves going to meetings and being involved. My mom actually started Active Achievers my first year of 4-H when I was in third grade. She is still an advisor as well and we get to do this together.”
Smith believes youth can learn many life skills from 4-H.
“The biggest think I took away from it is public speaking,” she said. “When I was little I used to hide behind my mom’s legs and never talk. Public speaking really helped me be able to pursue my career. I can stand up in front of anyone now and talk.”
Smith also serves on the 4-H Advisory Committee, is a goat representative for 4-H in Coshocton County, one of the public speaking key leaders and volunteers at the county fair.
“I have not missed a Coshocton County Fair in my 34 years,” Smith said. “I love every aspect of 4-H and the fair, it is my passion. I can’t say enough about 4-H.”
She and her family, which includes husband Steve and children Braxton, who is 7-years-old and Corbin, who is 4-years-old, attend the Coshocton First Church of the Nazarene, where Vacation Bible School is the highlight of summer.
“Family is a big reason I came back home (after college), but I also love the support the community gives to everyone in time of need and every time you go out you see someone you know,” Smith said. “Going away to college really made me appreciate where I’m from.”
Editor’s note: The Beacon is working with the Coshocton County Chamber of Commerce to highlight young professionals in the community.
Category: Business
