MADISON – Rocky Smith, new assistant principal at James Clemens High School, respects Madison City Schools as some of Alabama’s best … an important fact with two school-aged children in his family.

“Rocky Smith brings a tremendous amount of experience in several backgrounds that make him an excellent assistant principal,” James Clemens Principal Dr. Brian Clayton said. “We’re very proud to have him join our team.”

Smith will assist with daily operations and planning, discipline, attendance, special education compliance and some athletic duties.

At Troy University, Smith earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration. He received a master’s degree and Class A Certificate in instructional leadership at Auburn University Montgomery.

After college, he worked two years for “BASSMaster Magazine” publishers. Then, he worked as computer applications teacher and technology coordinator at McKee Middle School.

In 2004, Smith moved to Loveless Academic Magnet Program (LAMP) High School as technology coordinator, teacher and head baseball coach; he was athletic director one year. In 2012, he became assistant principal at both LAMP and Booker T. Washington Magnet High School.

In 2013, Smith was selected as principal of Park Crossing High School, Montgomery’s first new, traditional high school in 45 years.

Smith became familiar with James Clemens during a one-day visit with the instructional staff. “I took notes on successes of a new school opening as I prepared to open Park Crossing,” he said. “I’ve been a fan of James Clemens since.”

Smith credits college marketing professor Dr. Jim Hoyt with realizing “untapped potential. We all have self-imposed limitations on own abilities. It’s up to educators to remove those false ceilings from our students’ futures,” Smith said.

He and wife Laura, a teacher and graphic designer, have been married 12 years. Their daughter Lexi, 10, is a fifth-grader and son Rex, 5, will enter kindergarten.

Smith acknowledged Clayton, Dr. Dee Fowler and Madison Board of Education for his appointment. “Madison is blessed to have great schools offering the highest level of academics, arts, career tech and athletics. I’m excited to keep that tradition growing,” Smith said.