During a recent school board meeting, community members passionately advocated for Adam Smith to be considered as a finalist for the superintendent position in the East Baton Rouge Parish school system. Several speakers highlighted Smith's dedication to the district, emphasizing his long-standing commitment to students and his proactive approach to leadership.

One speaker, who identified as the union president, urged the board to heed the community's voice, recalling past instances where public sentiment was overlooked in favor of external candidates. \"Listen to your constituents who vote for you and what they want for their children,\" the union president implored, stressing the importance of local representation in educational leadership.

Another speaker, Dr. Vicki August, shared her perspective as a parent and grandparent within the district. She underscored the need for a superintendent who prioritizes the best interests of all students and possesses strong leadership qualities. August expressed concern over the trend of hiring out-of-state candidates, suggesting that seasoned local educators like Smith should not be overlooked in favor of newcomers.

Maria Harmon, co-founder of a grassroots organization advocating for public school parents, echoed these sentiments, praising Smith's culturally relevant leadership and problem-solving skills. She recounted his effective handling of challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic and his commitment to addressing educational disparities, particularly in literacy.

The meeting underscored a clear community consensus: there is strong support for Adam Smith as a candidate for superintendent, with many calling for the board to prioritize local experience and proven dedication to the district's students. As the board deliberates, the voices of parents, educators, and community leaders continue to resonate, emphasizing the need for a leader who understands the unique challenges facing East Baton Rouge Parish schools.