Dr. Randi Smith, principal of Ettrick Elementary, is one of nine finalists for the national Constantino Family Engagement Practitioner Award. Online voting is part of the selection process, so let’s rally around Dr. Smith and vote, vote, vote!
It’s easy and free: Cast your vote here for Dr. Smith before Jan. 30, 2026. You’ll have to provide your name; email address; and affiliation (educator, parent, community member, etc.).
Dr. Smith was named a finalist for the Constantino Family Engagement Practitioner Award based on her work to lift up family, school and community partnerships. She has led Ettrick Elementary since 2015, helping the school overcome challenges and emerge as a beacon of educational excellence. Ettrick Elementary is a fully accredited Title I school that has been recognized as a National ESEA Distinguished School for closing achievement gaps.
Dr. Smith’s most recent innovations at Ettrick Elementary include:
A family hub in the school designed to meet the needs of students, improve attendance and lessen barriers for families, with free services including a food pantry, hair salon and laundry.
A pilot program to boost family engagement by providing adult education to kindergarten parents to improve economic stability, civic involvement and self-sufficiency. This initiative was created by VCU’s Center for Teacher Leadership and is backed by a $30,000 grant from Google in partnership with the Chesterfield Education Foundation.
The winner of the Constantino Family Engagement Practitioner Award will be announced in early 2026 and will receive $10,000 and other prizes. Learn more about Ettrick Elementary and watch this video for a closer look at the school’s family hub.