"We may not be able to make the world safe for our children.  But we must, at least, do what we can to make our children safe for the world."

-William J. Bennett

CHARACTER EDUCATION:

  • If not important, why not?

  • If not now, when?

  • If not you, who?

  • If you can, how?

 

                                                     Dr. Gary M. Smit

Would you like practical ideas on how core ethical values can be integrated into the life of your school or organization? FOR CHARACTER will provide you with what is needed to move character education from words to action. Based on his recent book, Instilling Touchstones of Character, Gary will facilitate a workshop with you that will allow for all participants to leave with strategies and tools for implementation.

Gary Smit knows education. He was superintendent for 25 years in Illinois and Wisconsin, and has been a school principal and classroom teacher. His expertise from being in the trenches is evident in the presentations he gives on character education and school leadership. Taking the perspective that the goal of education is not only to have students do their best academic work but to also be their best self, his practical in-service programs provide useful and relevant strategies for teachers to use in building classrooms and schools of character.

Dr. Smit’s educational background, lively style, and homespun stories have enlightened and engaged audiences across the country, in Europe and Southeast Asia. An attention-grabbing and practical presenter, his keynote addresses speak not only to the head but the heart. No one leaves without grasping the passion and desire to live a life in which character truly matters. 


EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

Northwestern College         Orange City Iowa     Bachelor Degree in Education
Roosevelt University           Chicago, Il                 Masters Degree in School Administration
Northern Illinois University            DeKalb, Il       Certificate of Advanced Study in Leadership
Northern Illinois University            DeKalb, Il       Doctorate of Education in School Administration

 EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE

Classroom Teacher - 4 years  
Zion, Illinois             
School Principal  - 5 years      
Zion, Illinois                                                             

Superintendent of Schools - 4 years          

Genoa City, Wisconsin                              

Superintendent of Schools  - 11 years          

Berwyn, Illinois                                            

Superintendent of Schools -  10 years        

Lombard, Illinois                                          

 


 

For Character

Phone: 630-426-0334

E-mail: gsmit@forcharacter.com

Twitter: @GSmit4Character

Gary engages each year a number of schools in which he serves as a Coach/Mentor for their Character Development Initiative. Regular communication, video presentations, practical strategies and school visits comprise this unique professional development experience.