Trinity Charter Schools Names Daniel Smith Principal at Krause Children’s Center Campus
Katy, Texas (September 16, 2013) – Trinity Charter Schools has named Daniel Smith as Principal of Trinity Charter Schools’ Krause Campus, the education source for children at Krause Children’s Center, a residential treatment center in Katy, Texas, for children ages 12-17. Smith brings a robust background in education to the Krause team along with entrepreneurial and technological experience. Betsy Guthrie, chief executive officer of Trinity Charter Schools, made the announcement.
“With Daniel’s background as an educator and principal we know we are getting one of the best to lead our students at Krause,” said Guthrie. “He has an outstanding history working with at-risk kids and Title I schools, and he has a clear vision for where he wants to take Trinity Charter Schools’ Krause Campus.”
Trinity Charter Schools maintains campuses at Krause Children’s Center in Katy, New Life Children’s Center in Canyon Lake and Pegasus Schools in Lockhart. The Krause campus enrolls 60 students at a time. One of the main purposes of this school is to accelerate students who have fallen behind grade level due to a variety of reasons that may include missed school, behavioral issues or multiple foster placements. As principal, some of Smith’s goals include improving academic rigor and providing more robust extracurricular activities.
“The classroom is a sacred place that requires a love of learning,” said Smith. “These kids need engagement and creativity with their lessons, and that is something my staff brings every day. We have high expectations for our students, but we also have ‘crazy high’ expectations for ourselves. We want these kids to develop a passion for knowledge.”
Smith received his Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from University of Oregon and his Master of Arts degree in educational administration from Lamar University in Beaumont. Before coming to Trinity Charter Schools’ Krause Campus in Katy, Smith worked as the manager of college and career readiness for the Houston Independent School District, where he analyzed district-wide data to properly direct programs and learning needs.
Smith also is the co-founder of Sibme, a video software startup company that utilizes a cloud based video technology platform for teacher collaboration and development. Smith is certified in English Language Arts and Reading for grades 8-12, English as a Second Language Supplemental for grades 8-12, Professional Development Appraisal System certified, Instructional Leadership Development certified, and certified as a principal.
“Our ultimate goal at Trinity Charter Schools is to provide the highest quality academic experience and to get students up to the grade level they should be and even accelerate as many as we can,” said Smith. “These kids need specialized attention to help them take control of their lives in a positive way and to restore their self-confidence, and that is exactly what we want them to accomplish before they leave us.”
