Dear RRJSHS Families,

 I am writing to introduce myself to you as the new Principal of Rogue River Jr./Sr. High School.  It is an  honor to serve our community in this role and I am excited by my good fortune to do so in the community in which I now live!  I have already met numerous expert staff, energetic students, and wonderful families and am convinced now more than ever that coming here was an excellent choice. I would like to take this opportunity to share some of my background and hopefully have an opportunity to share even more as we get to know each other.

 I began my teaching career at South Medford High School in Special Education. After a short period of time, my entrepreneurial background was discovered and I was asked to create two very successful alternative education programs; an automotive apprenticeship program and  a  construction partnership that functioned like a small business managed by students.  Six years later I took a position in Grants Pass as an administrator and we moved our family there. During that time I served North Middle School as their AD/VP, I then took a post as the Principal of Lincoln Elementary for two years. I was asked to move back to North Middle as the Principal and remained there for six years. In 2010 I accepted a position at Hedrick Middle School in the Medford School District and after 5 years I interviewed and was appointed as the principal of North Medford High School where I recently finished serving for 6 years.  I am married to Dana who is an elementary school music teacher and we have two adult children, Mikayla and Gabi.

 My primary focus is to equip and bring out the very best in our students.  Whether it is in programs, athletics, or school climate and developing a sense of confidence, we are wise to invest heavily in their success.  The other day I was sharing with VP Tori Kirkpatrick that the majority of what I really know about schools has  been learned from students, staff, and families along the way. The biggest part of this learning has truly been this; it’s all about the kids.  It always has been and always will be.  

 Sincerely,

 Daniel P. Smith, Ed. D., Principal

Rogue River Jr./Sr. High School