Biography

​Before starting at ERA in July of 2026, Kelly Smith served on the Curriculum and Learning Design Team in Thompson School District, where she collaborated closely with Learning Services teams to support principals and teachers district-wide. She has a diverse 30 year background in K–12 education.  Previously she has served as a high school mathematics teacher, middle school math specialist, K–8 Dean of Students at New Vision Charter School, and Head of School at Colorado Early Colleges Windsor 6–12 charter school.  Kelly holds a B.A. in Mathematics from Texas Tech University, an M.Ed. in Education and Policy Studies from the University of Northern Colorado, a Colorado and Texas Mathematics teaching license, and a Colorado State Principal’s License. 

Grounded in a deep passion for Universal Design for Learning (UDL), Kelly firmly believes that all students can reach grade-level expectations and beyond when given the right environment and support. She knows that strong relationships are essential to creating a warm, welcoming culture, and she utilizes restorative principles to build a strong sense of community, accountability, and mutual respect. As principal, she is dedicated to providing a happy, healthy, and safe environment where students and staff alike are encouraged to set high goals, take risks, and achieve great things.

Outside of school, Kelly enjoys spending time with her husband camping, fishing, and hiking. Her favorite hobby is visiting her adult children and grandchildren. She also loves to relax by reading, swimming, or watching sports—especially cheering on Texas Tech football and basketball (Wreck ‘em Tech!). She is excited to join the Eagle Ridge Academy community and become a Warrior!