Smith is a veteran English educator and department chair at South Fayette High School, where he has spent the past two decades helping students develop as readers, writers, thinkers, and communicators. With 25 years in education, Gary teaches Advanced Placement Language and Composition, Coming of Age Literature through Robert Morris University’s College in High School program, Podcasting, and the Honors Management course that oversees South Fayette’s nationally recognized Mini-THON program.

Before joining the South Fayette School District, Gary taught English in the South Allegheny School District and has also worked with junior colleges and SAT preparation programs. Throughout his career, he has taught nearly every level of secondary English, from middle school through Advanced Placement courses, as well as a variety of elective offerings. Known for being tough but fair, Gary believes honest feedback and high expectations help students reach their full potential. Sharing his passion for literature and writing remains one of the most rewarding aspects of his profession.

Gary holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Secondary Education from Point Park University and a Master of Education from the University of Pittsburgh. In addition to serving as English Department Chair, he sponsors National Honor Society, Future Educators of America, and South Fayette’s Mini-THON, a student-led philanthropy program affiliated with Penn State THON. He also serves as an elected member of the South Park School Board, contributing to the Education and Personnel Committees.

Outside the classroom, Gary has been married for 22 years and is the proud father of two daughters, who also happen to be his best friends. Whether enjoying movies, shopping trips, board games, or other family adventures, he values time spent together above all else. An avid reader, movie enthusiast, and devoted Pittsburgh Pirates fan, Gary remains optimistic that the next season might finally be the one.