Laynie Smith

I am so excited to spend the next year at Friends School as an Assistant Teacher Candidate! I grew up in St. Louis, Missouri and moved to Colorado for college. I graduated from the University of Denver where I studied Ecology & Biodiversity, Geography, and Leadership Studies. My path to teaching has been somewhat circuitous. Being a teacher was my “dream job” for much of my life, but during college I pivoted my focus to sustainable food systems and environmental education. I’ve spent the past seven years as a professional baker and farm-to-table chef! I’m looking forward to bringing this dynamic experience into the classroom.

My favorite part of teaching is creating space for students to be curious and find what excites them. Outside of school, you can find me walking with my dog Ramona, cooking for friends, or teaching myself how to knit.