Acting Principal, Paula Smith has a Bachelor’s degree in Middle School Education, a Master’s degree in Middle School Social Studies Education, and an Ed.S. degree and Rank I in Educational Leadership from the University of Kentucky.

Mrs. Smith was named one of the state’s top history teachers by the Kentucky Historical Society and Who’s Who among American Teachers. She was also awarded the Alice Lloyd College Education Award and received the national honor on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. for the National Energy Education District (NEED) School of the Year. She has led students to KYA, KUNA, National History Day, and annual trips to Washington, D.C. She has been a SACS Accreditation Chairperson, KTIP Resource Teacher, and KTIP Principal. She has also led students and families on many international tours and extensively traveled abroad.