Owensboro Public Schools Superintendent, Dr. Matthew Constant has named Kara Smith the district’s next Coordinator of Fine Arts. She will replace Tom Stites who is retiring from the position after 14 years with the school district.
Smith’s career in education spans more than 13 years, the past seven of which have been with Owensboro Public Schools. She began her tenure with OPS as the music teacher at Estes Elementary. After three years, she became the co-director of the Owensboro Middle School band where she has served for the past four years. Prior to her time in Owensboro, Smith taught elementary music at Caldwell County and directed middle and high school bands in Trigg County.
“I am truly honored to be selected as the next Fine Arts Coordinator of Owensboro Public Schools,” said Smith. “We have an extensive history of strong arts programs at OPS, and I look forward to the opportunity to lead our programs to the next level of achievement. I am passionate about serving our students and supporting our staff so that we can continue to impact young lives through the arts.”
Smith earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from Western Kentucky University and her Rank II in School Counseling from Murray State University.
In her new role, Smith will facilitate the planning, development and implementation of all Fine Arts programs across the district as well as coordinating the curriculum for fine arts education in all schools.
“We knew when Mr. Stites decided to retire that we needed someone in this position who understood how important Fine Arts is to our students and our community,” said Constant. “There is no doubt that Kara will continue to elevate the rich tradition of our Fine Arts programs for years to come.”
Smith will officially take over the role of District Fine Arts Coordinator on July 1, 2023.