In her role as as instructional coach, Locke-Smith is tasked to bring evidence-based practices into classrooms by working with teachers and campus administration. However, it is evident through all of her nominations from campus staff, that she goes above and beyond to be a helping hand at H.F. Stevens.

“There are many times where she is used to cover for other teachers, as a hall monitor, helping out in the cafeteria or assisting with discipline,” one staff nomination said. “Any time she does any her these extra duties, she always has a smile on her face and a great attitude.”

Locke-Smith has been particularly focused on the STAAR test this semester, preparing students and teachers by creating a plan to help intervene with students who weren’t successful on the first math and reading tests.

“She has coordinated our SSI system, which allows students that need extra help before the next administration of STAAR to be reached,” another staff nomination said. “Mrs. Locke-Smith is a tremendous asset to everyone at HF Stevens.”

“She is an encouragement to the teachers she works with and inspires them to believe in themselves. She gives them strategies and ideas that help. She takes on their challenges as her own and really gets invested in the growth of our teachers.”

Like any other career field, there is always the opportunity for an experienced educator like Locke-Smith to mentor new teachers as they enter world of education. This is part the job that she takes great pride in.

“From the very beginning of the school year, Sarah has been open to helping me as a new teacher,” another nomination said. “She would come into my room, or set aside time after school, and introduce me to different strategies and help a struggling new teacher feel confident.”

The Heartbeat Team Award is sponsored in part by Crowley ISD community partners EECU and Inspire Salon/Spa. Locke-Smith received a $50 Visa gift card courtesy of EECU and a spa gift card for a custom facial courtesy of Inspire Salon/Spa.

As the monthly honoree, Locke-Smith will be recognized at the Crowley ISD Board of Trustees meeting on May 26.

2015-16 Heartbeat Team Award winners

September: Becky Barton, Jackie Carden Elementary School
October: William Addo, Dallas Park Elementary School
November: Sonya Allen, Summer Creek Middle School
December: Chris Hill, Crowley Learning Center 
January: Kimberly Hirth, Parkway Elementary School
February: Leigh Dansby, Crowley Middle School
March: Bobbi Cruff, Crowley High School
April: Charles Johnson, Mary Harris Intermediate School