Dominique Smith

Dr. Dominique Smith is Chief of Educational Services and Teacher Support at Health Sciences High and Middle College in San Diego, CA. He is passionate about creating school cultures that honor students and build their confidence and competence. Smith’s major area of research and instruction focuses on restorative practices, classroom management, growth mindset, and the culture of achievement. In addition to his school leadership responsibilities, Smith provides professional learning to K–12 teachers in groups large and small, on many topics that address classroom and school climate and organization. He is a regular presenter at many conferences, including Empower (ASCD’s annual conference). Smith holds his doctorate in Educational Leadership from San Diego State University with a focus on equity and a Master’s degree in social work from the University of Southern California.. He also holds credentials from San Diego State University in administrative services, child welfare, PPS, and attendance. He is the winner of the National School Safety Award from the School Safety Advocacy Council. His publications include “All Learning Is Social and Emotional: Helping Students Develop Essential Skills for the Classroom and Beyond” (ASCD, 2018), “Building Equity: Policies and Practices to Empower All Learners” (ASCD, 2017), and “Better Than Carrots or Sticks: Restorative Practices for Positive Classroom Management” (ASCD, 2014). In addition, he has contributed numerous articles for ASCD’s Educational Leadership® magazine, including “Tear Down Your Behavior Chart!” He delivered a TED Talk in 2018 about building relationships between students and teachers.