Director of Pupil Services

The Elizabethtown Area School District appointed Dr. Walter Smith as Director of Pupil Services in 2026. Dr. Smith joined the district in 2018 as Director of Special Education, bringing more than two decades of experience in special education, student support, and educational leadership.

Throughout his career, Dr. Smith has served as a classroom teacher, special education consultant, and educational administrator. Prior to joining the Elizabethtown Area School District, he served as Vice President of Educational Services at Hoffman Homes for Youth, where he founded and led Hoffman Academy, a school designed to serve students who had experienced trauma, abuse, and significant adversity. He has also presented at state and national conferences on topics including inclusive instructional practices and trauma-informed education.

As Director of Pupil Services, Dr. Smith provides leadership and oversight for the district's special education programs, student support services, and specialized educational programming. He is committed to ensuring every student has access to the resources, services, and opportunities needed to achieve success.

Dr. Smith holds a Bachelor of Science in Special Education and Elementary Education from Lebanon Valley College, a Master of Education in Special Education from Millersville University, and a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Pennsylvania Western University. He also holds a Pennsylvania Superintendent Letter of Eligibility.

Outside of the district, Dr. Smith has served as a competitive swim coach in the local community for more than 25 years, reflecting his longstanding commitment to mentoring and supporting young people.

Dr. Smith can be contacted by phone at (717) 367-1521 or by email at walter_smith@etownschools.org.