PALMDALE, Calif. — Joann N. Smith, a longtime educator, U.S. Army veteran, and community advocate, is seeking a seat on the Palmdale School District Board of Trustees, Area 3, bringing nearly three decades of experience serving students, families, and communities.

Smith has dedicated much of her professional career to education, including the past 20 years with the Lancaster School District. She has taught students in grades 1 through 6 and currently teaches Social Emotional Learning (SEL), helping students develop important life skills alongside academic achievement.

A graduate of Long Island University with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, Smith also holds a master’s degree in education from Pepperdine University. Her teaching career began in Inglewood, California, and has included service in New York City and the Antelope Valley.

Throughout her career, Smith has advocated for educational excellence, equity, and student success. She has served as a representative for the Teachers Association of Lancaster, chaired the Human Rights Committee for the High Desert Service Center Council, and mentored aspiring educators through California State University, Bakersfield’s BETR Program.

Beyond the classroom, Smith has remained active in community service. She leads a school drill team, founded a community youth drill team through The Way Center of Truth, Inc., and mentors young people through the Be A Mentor program.

Her community involvement also includes serving as a Palmdale Ambassador and supporting organizations such as the Palmdale Women’s Club, Jolly Seniors of Sun Village, and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., where she serves as co-chair of the Social Action Committee.

Smith’s campaign emphasizes educating the whole child, strengthening relationships between parents and schools, supporting effective curriculum, and ensuring students have access to essential educational services.

As a wife, mother, veteran, and educator, Smith says her commitment is to helping every student succeed academically, socially, and emotionally.

Her candidacy for the Palmdale School District Board of Trustees, Area 3, reflects her continued dedication to students, families, and the future of education in the Antelope Valley.