Mr. Smith was a teacher that did more than deliver a subject. He promoted such humanitarianism in his role as educator. He was mentor and advocate. He exposed students to the world outside the decentralized community of Ocean Hill Brownsville. He taught us to always strive for our best in whatever we did, and he demanded that we did so. Sometimes on the weekends a knock would come to your door and there was Mr. Smith, his wife, and sometimes his son, Greg Jr. They would visit and sometimes join us for dinner. This was above and beyond his duties but because of his commitment to children, he touched lives in ways that he still does not understand. Last year he was my guest at JHS 157 in district 28, and in 2003 he shared the stage with my guests also, including the Deputy Mayor of NYC. Neither of them watched the clock, they gave of their time during a Grade Eight evening Stepping Up ceremony, recognizing students. Kudos to those who inspire students touching them for a lifetime.
- Kim West,
Former Student