Smith, Richard L. Student Teacher Scholarship
The Richard L. Smith Student Teacher Scholarship was established by Richard L Smith, who spent his life in Akron, Ohio. Born in 1934, he grew up in North Hill and graduated from North High School in 1952. He then attended and graduated from The University of Akron in 1956 with a bachelor's degree in education, a major in comprehensive social studies, and a minor in biological science. He began his teaching career in 1956 at Thornton Junior High School, the old South High School. He then entered the U.S. Army in 1957, and after officer's training school, returned to Akron where he served seven years in the Active Reserves. Upon his return home in 1957, he began teaching at Kenmore Junior High in Kenmore. Mr. Smith completed his master's degee in education in 1963 at Kent State University.
Mr. Smith taught for 28 years at Innes Junior High. During his career there, he thoroughly enjoyed teaching and interacted and worked with approximately 23 student teachers. Mr. Smith was a 1966-1967 Martha Holden Jennings Scholar and received the Pearl Drews Award for Outstanding Teacher in Social Studies in 1977, and also received many other teaching honors throughout his career. Upon retirement, Mr. Smith became a Supervisor of Student Teachers at The University of Akron and enjoyed that job immensely for 10 years.
The Richard L. Smith Student Teacher Scholarship will be awarded to a student-teacher who exhibits creativity, enthusiasm, and a commitment to youth and teaching. Although scholarship is important, it is not to be the primary consideration. A 3.0 GPA, or better, in the major field of study is desirable. It is intended to award the scholarship to a student-teacher in the social sciences with an emphasis on American history and government. Financial need and family responsibilities are important considerations. Student-teachers need to be able to concentrate on devoting their time and efforts toward a successful teaching experience. It is intended that this scholarship will relieve some of the financial concerns encountered by adult students while completing their teaching experience.