Smithson Lauded for Distinguished Teaching

Headmaster Pete Sanders awarded Science Instructor Garrett Smithson the 2025 Distinguished Teaching Award, given annually to a faculty member who demonstrates excellence. 
“This year’s honoree has brought excellence to his work here since 2014, including teaching eight-grade Physical Science, 10th grade Chemistry, and seventh through ninth-grade Robotics,” Sanders said. “In February, he and faculty associates hosted three dozen area robotics teams on campus to compete for engineering, programming, and strategic supremacy. … He has said that he aims to make students more scientifically literate citizens who realize their potential to contribute while making them stronger and more confident young men.”

Science Department Chair Lee Loden said of the honor, “I couldn’t be more pleased to see Garrett recognized for all of his hard work. He consistently models professionalism and preparedness for the boys, leading them with a gruff-yet-gentle demeanor.”

Mr. Smithson earned a bachelor’s degree in science from Christian Brothers University and worked for the Mallinckrodt Nuclear Pharmacy in Memphis before beginning his teaching career at Holy Family Catholic School in Holly Springs and Holy Rosary Catholic School in Memphis. Along the way he earned a master’s degree from Christian Brothers University. Before coming to MUS, he taught high school biology and physics at Saint Agnes Academy.

The newest Distinguished Teaching awardee served as a park ranger for the Germantown Parks and Recreation Department from 2006 to 2013, including as a liaison for Eagle Scout Projects. Mr. Sanders pointed out that Smithson, an Eagle Scout himself, continues to uphold the Scout Outdoor Code – to leave your environment better than you found it.

Smithson has presented chapels that reflect his interests, including a talk on proper nutrition and weight training. In another chapel he spoke about life’s challenges and the importance of confiding in trusted family members, teachers, coaches, and friends. He reported the results of an anonymous survey he conducted among faculty and staff to illustrate how everyone encounters problems.

He also coordinated a visit by FedEx to teach Owls about vehicle safety, coinciding with the annual eighth-grade egg car crash labs he has taught to over 90 percent of the student body.

“Mr. Smithson, thank you for always leaving your environment here at MUS better than you found it,” Sanders said in presenting the award.

Smithson’s wife, Kristen, was in the audience to celebrate with him.

See the chapel photos or watch the recording.
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