Supporting Excellent Science Teaching for Georgia

Hello! I am Erin Iler Smith, a second-grade lead teacher and gifted education lead at Leroy Massey Elementary School in Chattooga County. I am honored and excited to serve as your GSTA Elementary Representative, and I look forward to collaborating with educators across the state to champion high-quality, inquiry-based science in the elementary classroom.

I hold a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction and a Specialist degree in Reading Education. Currently, I am further expanding my impact as a graduate student at the University of Georgia, pursuing a Tier 1 Educational Leadership Certification. My professional background is rooted in a deep commitment to literacy and science, supported by endorsements in Dyslexia, Gifted Education, and Reading.

It was a true privilege to be named the 2026 GSTA Elementary Science Teacher of the Year. Beyond the classroom, I am a passionate advocate for "Synergistic Literacy"—the intentional integration of literacy with scientific inquiry. My work often focuses on student-driven frameworks, such as Building Thinking Classrooms, and fostering community partnerships through agricultural education and school gardening initiatives.

I am a frequent presenter at local and state conferences, and I am dedicated to mentoring the next generation of educators. As your representative, I am eager to support you in creating authentic, knowledge-building experiences for all students.

I look forward to meeting and working with each of you. Please reach out with any comments, questions, or innovative ideas you’d like to share!