GENTRY, AR — Gentry Middle School has named Cliff Smith as its 2026 Teacher of the Year, recognizing his outstanding commitment to students, leadership among staff, and lasting impact on the school community.
Smith has dedicated 15 years to education -- all of them in the Gentry School District -- and is widely known for going above and beyond in his role. He serves as a department leader and Multi-Classroom Leader, regularly supporting colleagues with lesson planning, classroom management strategies, and instructional practices. His willingness to step in and assist others has helped foster a collaborative and supportive culture across the campus.
“Mr. Smith is a thoughtful, caring, and energetic educator who creates a classroom environment where learning is collaborative and engaging,” said Gentry Middle School Principal Dr. Elizabeth Wieneke. “He leads by example and consistently supports both students and staff in ways that strengthen our entire school.”
In the classroom, Smith emphasizes active learning and student engagement. His instruction encourages discussion, critical thinking, and real-world application, allowing students to take ownership of their learning. Administrators note that students in his classroom are not only engaged, but also able to clearly articulate what they are learning and how it connects to broader concepts.
“Instruction in his classroom functions less as a lecture and more as an ongoing conversation,” Wieneke said. “Students are actively involved in building their understanding and developing confidence in sharing their ideas.”
Smith also plays a key role in advancing instructional alignment across the school. He works closely with the English Language Arts department as the social studies team integrates essay writing into its curriculum, helping establish consistent expectations for writing across content areas.
In addition to his work on campus, Smith represents Gentry Public Schools on the Teacher Center Committee through the Northwest Arkansas Education Service Cooperative (NWAESC), where he helps advocate for professional development opportunities that meet the needs of educators across the region.
“Mr. Smith’s leadership, collaboration, and dedication to both students and colleagues contribute to a culture of growth and excellence at Gentry Middle School,” Wieneke said.
District leaders say Smith’s passion, high expectations, and commitment to student success make him a deserving recipient of the honor. His work reflects the district’s mission of helping students connect, learn, and succeed.
Smith will go on to represent Gentry Middle School at the district level as part of the Teacher of the Year program.