A Lasting Equation: Mary Smith’s Impact Adds Up at Pen Argyl
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By Emsley Krome
After 22 years in the classroom, Mary Smith is retiring from Pen Argyl High School, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, leadership, and connection with students.
Before teaching, Smith worked as an engineer for Goodyear. After taking time off to raise her children, she returned to the workforce and chose education, combining her love of math with a schedule that fit her family life.
“I had always loved math, and teaching was a good fit,” she said.
During her time at Pen Argyl, she has taught a wide range of courses from Algebra to Calculus and Statistics. Known for her deep knowledge and supportive teaching style, Smith encouraged students to push themselves. She hopes they remember that “they can do hard things if they work at it.”
Her impact on students is clear. Gabriella Delgado, sophomore, said Smith’s teaching, “helped me understand math better and gave me more confidence in my ability.”
She added that everything she learned in the class will help prepare her for future math courses.
Delgado also described Smith as “smart, easygoing, and kind,” and said she will miss her “amazing ability to teach.”
Photo Courtesy of Kannon Reed
Mary Smith guides her Honors Algebra II students through tough equations.
Salma Bashova, sophomore, highlighted one of Smith’s most memorable teaching methods; the Quadratic Formula song, showing how she made difficult material more engaging. She also described Smith as “fun,” a quality many students appreciate. Beyond teaching, Smith helped bring Mini-THON to the school, supporting the Four Diamonds organization. She described some of her favorite memories as watching students come together for the first event and celebrating the totals raised each year.
Smith said the most meaningful part of her career has been the relationships she has built.
“Sometimes teaching can be a thankless job,” she said, “but I always appreciate when a student reaches out to tell me that I had a positive impact on them.”
As she retires, Smith will miss “the interaction with the students and faculty,” but she is looking forward to traveling, visiting national parks, and spending more time with her family.
She also joked about one immediate goal: “sleeping past 5 am.”
Smith’s impact on Pen Argyl will not be forgotten, as her influence will continue through the students and traditions she helped shape.
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