College of Education and Human Development

Valerie Smith

Coordinator, Maine’s Alternative Certification and Mentoring Program
valerie.smith@maine.edu
207.581.2419

160 Shibles Hall
University of Maine
Orono, Maine 04469-5766

Bio: Valerie Smith coordinates Maine’s Alternative Certification and Mentoring Program, a collaboration with Maine Department of Education, Division of Special Services. She has been involved in systems change initiatives in both school and community settings throughout her career, and is interested in social justice and full citizenship for people with disabilities. She is a former inclusive special educator and music therapist and served as both teaching and research faculty involved in teacher preparation, diversity initiatives, systemic change, and advocacy. She is particularly interested partnering with individuals with disabilities, families, and community and school entities to promote change.

Education
Ph.D. in Special Education, 2003, Syracuse University
C.A.S. in Disability Studies, 2002, Syracuse University
M.Ed. in Special Education with concentrations in Low-Incidence Disabilities and Transition, 1994, University of Maine
Bachelors in Music Therapy and Music Education, 1986, University of Kansas