Smith uses career to give back to community
COSHOCTON – The relationships he had with his own high school teachers are part of the reason Steve Smith chose to become a teacher.
“I actually changed my major in college because I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do,” said Smith. His college roommate was majoring in education and that felt right to him. Of the four core subjects, math was the one he liked the best and now he is an Algebra teacher at Coshocton High School, his Alma Mater.
Smith holds two master’s degrees – one in school administration and the other as an intervention specialist. He is also part of the coaching staff for the football and track and field teams. “Being a coach is a great way to still be able to compete in sports I enjoy. And I get to work with young people, too, outside the classroom.” He said that is what he enjoys most about coaching. “It gives me the opportunity to have the same impact on them as my coaches had on me.”
“The hardest thing about coaching is the time is takes away from my family. Sometimes, it seems I’m working with other people’s kids more than my own.” Smith said each sport has its challenges when it comes to coaching. “Football is a faster pace and a lot of pressure to succeed. Track and Field is co-ed and that can bring its own issues, but it is a more laid back sport.”
Smith and his wife, Analea, have two sons, Braxton and Corbin. They attend the First Church of the Nazarene and enjoy spending time at his parents’ house on Atwood Lake. “We like spending a lot of time outdoors.” The family is also active in 4-H. “We spend a lot of time at the fair. My wife has a 4-H group and both boys show animals.” Braxton and Corbin also enjoy watching their dad while he is coaching and like going onto the field after the football games.
Smith said he chose to stay in Coshocton because he is from here and his career in education/coaching gives him the opportunity to give back to the community.
Editor’s note: The Beacon is working with the Coshocton County Chamber of Commerce to highlight young professionals in the community.
Category: Business
