Smith named top schools superintendent in O.C.

Sherine Smith has been named Orange County’s 2016 Superintendent of the Year by a California organization representing school leaders.

The Assn. of California School Administrators selected Smith, the outgoing superintendent of the Laguna Beach Unified School District, for the honor, which recognizes leadership skills, professionalism, creativity, innovation and commitment to a quality education, according to a news release.

Under Smith’s leadership, Laguna Beach Unified has strengthened programs for English-language learners and implemented a bring-your-own technology device program so students can collaborate online, conduct research and publish presentations, the release said. Some teachers have experimented with classroom furniture changes, including incorporating movable desks.

In the past year, State Supt. Tom Torlakson has also recognized Laguna Beach Unified as one of the top digital-focused districts in California.

“I am honored to be recognized as the Orange County Superintendent of the Year,” Smith said in the release. “It has been a privilege to lead the [district], one of the premier districts in the county and the state. I share the credit for this honor with the dedicated, talented and progressive teachers, administrators and staff that comprise our district. We all work hard every day to provide a gold standard of education for our students.”

Smith is retiring in June, after six years with the district.

The school board conducted the first round of interviews for Smith’s successor last week and will interview additional candidates later this week, district human resources and communications Director Leisa Winston wrote in an email.

Smith volunteers with several organizations, including the Laguna Beach Rotary Club, Friendship Shelter, the Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach and the Laguna Beach Community Coalition.