By Linda White
With an easy smile, an acute sense of humor, an innate love of science, a “Bill Nye the Science Guy” level of enthusiasm and bright blue eyes that dance when he speaks of JGMS students, it is easy to understand why Bradd Smithson, JGMS Science teacher of 31 years, has been inducted into the Massachusetts Hall of Fame for Science Educators.
JGMS Principal Kevin Tracey commented, “Bradd has attended and presented at numerous national conferences, and served as our curriculum coordinator. Most impressive is his endearing enthusiasm for teaching which is and has been seen by thousands of students. This acknowledgement of his achievements is both prestigious and well deserved.” Smithson was one of four science educators inducted into the Hall of Fame this year. Science teachers across Massachusetts from kindergarten through college level who met the extensive nominating guidelines were eligible for the award. It was particularly meaningful for Mr. Smithson to be nominated by his science mentor, Marilyn Richardson, a science teacher with 35 years of experience who serves as District I Director at National Science Teachers Association (NSTA).
Growing up in Beverly, Mr. Smithson knew early on that he was destined to be a teacher, and his family knew it too. Smithson recalled, “My father was in the building trades and had his crew construct a giant chalkboard in my room that covered the entire wall. It was an amazing surprise and I loved using it!”
Smithson attended Beverly public schools and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and later obtained a Master of Science in Marine Biology at Northeastern University. Following his graduation from UMASS, Smithson worked in retail for two years during a period when teaching positions were negatively impacted by Prop 2.5. Obtaining a Master’s degree kept his dream alive of finding a teaching position. He was hired for a position at JGMS directly after receiving his Master’s degree and has been in the classroom since – 11 years in Grade 6 and 20 years in Grade 7.
Over the years he has taught Life Science, Earth Science, Physical Science, Social Studies and Mathematics to both sixth and seventh grade students. He has also served as a mentor for new science teachers, Grade 6 Team Leader, a cooperating teacher for Lesley University pre-practicum and practice teachers and has functioned as the JGMS Science Coordinator since 2000. Outside the classroom, he was named Science Educator of the Year for Middlesex County in 2003 and elected to Phi Sigma Society, a biological sciences honor society. Smithson has also been a National Science Teacher Association presenter at national conventions in Philadelphia, St. Louis, New Orleans, Orlando and San Diego and has functioned as Director for Middlesex County for the Massachusetts Association of Science Teachers since 2001.
Smithson reflected, “I enjoy being a science resource both inside and outside the classroom. Sharing my knowledge with other teachers and helping JGMS teachers with technology upgrades like the new smart board units and applications. They keep me current and motivated. I think I have a strong bond with JGMS students and can identify with their age group. A sense of humor is important. So is laughter. I try to infuse both into my classroom. Bedford kids, their parents and the support of the Bedford community make this a great place to teach.”
BHS senior Rob Ackerman commented, “Mr. Smithson was outstanding!!! I remember going to class and coming out being happy and knowing I had learned something new. He made science fun with his fantastic sense of humor and precise choice of activities scheduled for the class. To this day when I visit him, he remembers me and my name and it seems like nothing has changed. He was my first male science teacher. I think he sparked my interest in science. I am excited to hear about his induction and think it is very well deserved.” Katie Eliason a BHS freshman continued, “Mr. Smithson is very supportive of each and every one of his students and never fails to make each lesson enjoyable with his great sense of humor.”
When he is not in the classroom, you can probably find Bradd Smithson at or on the water in northern Maine.
Congratulations and thank you Mr. Smithson!
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