Vicenza Middle School and DoDEA Europe Bids ‘Arrivederci’ to Dr. Smith After 41 Years of Service
On Sept. 30, 2024, Dr. Barriett Smith, Principal of Vicenza Middle School (VMS), retired after 41 years of service with the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA), leaving behind a legacy of dedication to students and the military community. Dr. Smith, a DoDEA alumnus, reflected on his career during a farewell ceremony attended by students, staff, and military leaders.
“Please take care of your children,” Dr. Smith said. “As the saying goes, they are our future, and looking at this group of students, our future is bright. They are the most diverse, accepting, and understanding generation this nation has had the opportunity to educate.”
Dr. Smith was joined by Col. Horrigan and Dr. Howard-Brahaney, DoDEA’s Director for Student Excellence in Europe, at the event. Col. Horrigan presented Dr. Smith with the Army Civil Service Commendation Medal in recognition of his years of leadership and service to the community.
Smith, who often says, "Once a Raider, always a Raider," when referring to Kaiserslautern is deeply connected to the Kaiserslautern High School community, where he was a track star in the 1970’s before running track at Northern Arizona University. In 2018, students humorously created giant "Barriett heads" on sticks, which became a popular feature at school events—a testament to the affection and respect he earned throughout his career.
Before joining VMS as principal in 2021, Dr. Smith served as principal at several DoDEA schools, including Kaiserslautern High School and Sembach Elementary. He was assistant principal of Ramstein Middle School and Ramstein High School. He was known for his personal approach, taking the time to learn every student’s name and often joining them on the playground or at lunch.
Throughout his career, Dr. Smith was committed to ensuring all students were career or college-ready by the time they graduated. His philosophy centered on student achievement through hard work, collaboration, and building strong relationships between educators, students, and parents.
Dr. Smith began his teaching career in special education, earning both his undergraduate and master’s degrees in special education from Northern Arizona University. He later earned a second master’s degree in School Administration from Capella University and a doctorate in Special Education and Leadership from the University of Maryland in 2011.
During his tenure, Dr. Smith received numerous accolades, including being named Educator of the Year from Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., in 2019.
In his retirement, Dr. Smith plans to spend time with his wife, Laura, and their five children—Mandra, Braden, Genorace, Brice, and Samara. Four of his children, like their father, are graduates of Kaiserslautern High School. In retirement, Dr. Smith plans on spending his time on the International Senior Paddleball Tour.
Reflecting on his long career, Dr. Smith emphasized the importance of education and the future success of students. “Our students are ready for a changing world,” he said. Dr. Smith leaves behind a lasting impact and legacy on the DoDEA community.
