Adam Smith, Mehlville School District’s assistant superintendent of student services, was recently honored with the Distinguished Leadership Award from the Special School District (SSD) of St. Louis County.

The Distinguished Leadership Award recognizes administrators “who have demonstrated an extraordinary level of commitment to SSD students, staff, families and the community.” It is presented to three administrators each year: an SSD administrator working in SSD schools or buildings, an SSD administrator working in a partner district and a non-SSD administrator working in a partner district. Aside from Smith, Ann Hawkey – principal at St. Louis County Juvenile Detention Center, Special School District – and Carmen Harris – special education director at Rockwood School District, Special School District – were recipients of this year’s award.

“Mr. Smith is a dedicated leader who has significantly improved the district’s effectiveness and efficiency by enhancing data accessibility and strengthening collaboration between general and special education teams. His leadership in implementing a data management system has streamlined access to critical student information, benefiting both educators and students,” Smith’s anonymous nominator for the award stated in a press release. “He fosters engagement and trust by advocating for inclusive opportunities, such as ensuring students with disabilities can participate in school-sponsored trips.

“He is committed to developing others, coaching principals and administrators, and providing tools that enhance collaboration and decision-making,” Smith’s nominator continued. “He builds strong partnerships within the community, working closely with local leaders to advance special education initiatives. Through his leadership, Mr. Smith embodies equity, commitment, and collaboration, making a lasting impact on students, staff, and families.”