Irving, TX – For nearly 18 years, Elsie Smith, a Security Officer at the Irving ISD Administration Building, has dedicated herself to protecting students and staff—and inspiring the community. This fall, her commitment was recognized when she received a Community Service Award from the local chapter of the NAACP.
Before joining Irving ISD, Smith spent 29 years with the State of Louisiana’s Office of Community and Social Services, serving as an administrative support team supervisor. Since relocating to Texas, she has worked in school security, emphasizing safety, visibility, and peace of mind for students and staff.
Smith’s impact extends beyond security. She recently helped a student, Monterios Drake, and his mother connect with Irving ISD’s Adult Education and Literacy Department and the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) training program. Encouraging Monterios to pursue the program, Smith promised a reward for completing it. A month later, Monterios returned with his certificate, earning a monetary reward and eventually securing a full-time job using his new skills.
“Mentoring is one of the best things anyone can do for our children and community,” Smith says. “Children just need someone who believes in them.”
Receiving the NAACP award on October 4 serves as both an honor and a reminder to continue her work with Irving ISD students. “I feel very inspired to do more for the community and continue to be involved with the students of Irving ISD,” Smith said.
Through nearly two decades of service, Smith has kept Irving ISD safe while also guiding students toward brighter futures, one conversation at a time.
