Hello Pumphrey Family! My name is Carlaskio Smith, and I am beyond thrilled to serve as the proud principal of Pumphrey Elementary! It is truly an honor to join such an amazing community of learners, educators, and families.

 

A little about me, I was born and raised in the small but mighty town of El Dorado, Arkansas. Growing up in a close-knit community taught me the value of hard work, strong relationships, and the transformative power of education. Those lessons have guided me throughout my career and continue to inspire me every day.

 

My educational journey began in the classroom, where I fell in love with teaching and helping students discover their potential. Over the years, I’ve served as a teacher, instructional leader, and assistant principal, and now I have the privilege of leading Pumphrey! I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Central Arkansas and a Master of Science in School Leadership, Management, and Administration. I’m also currently pursuing my Doctorate in Educational Leadership at the University of Houston–Clear Lake.

 

Outside of school, I have a deep love for music! I’m a percussionist and pianist, and music has always been a big part of my life. It’s where I learned creativity, discipline, and the joy of teamwork, skills I bring into leadership every day. When I’m not making music, you’ll likely find me enjoying live music, cheering on my favorite teams, or spending time with family and friends.

 

I can’t wait to meet each of you and work together to make this an incredible year. At Pumphrey Elementary, we’re not just a school, we’re a family, and every child matters. Let’s make this year unforgettable!