Ms. Smithwick is an experienced educator with over 20 years of experience teaching elementary education and a strong commitment to individualized, mastery-based learning. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Art History and Elementary Education from Georgia State University and a master’s degree in Interior Design from Parsons School of Design in New York City.

Michele has taught elementary students at The Paideia School in Atlanta, Georgia, and at Rivendell School of Northern Colorado in Fort Collins, Colorado. Her teaching reflects a belief that there are many valid ways to approach a problem and that learning is strengthened through collaboration, shared thinking, and sustained practice over time.

Her educational philosophy centers on helping students build deep understanding and confidence by honoring multiple strategies, encouraging curiosity, and supporting students until concepts truly stick. Michele brings a calm, kind, and nurturing presence to her work, creating learning environments where students feel seen, supported, and capable.

As both an educator and a mother of three daughters, Michele deeply values education that supports not only academic growth but also confidence, independence, and self-trust. At Girlmath, she works with students to strengthen foundational skills while fostering perseverance and a shared sense of success.