Delaware’s Kathleen Smith Honored with NASBE Award

Alexandria, VA—The National Association of State Boards of Education (NASBE) is pleased to present its 2026 David A. Kysilko Award to Kathleen Smith for her dedication and excellent service as executive director of the Delaware State Board of Education.

Smith became executive director in 2022 after three years as the board’s administrative assistant. In this role, Smith exhibited a strong and passionate commitment to the work of the state board and the broader mission of ensuring Delaware’s students receive an excellent education.

“Smith went above and beyond her administrative responsibilities for the board,” said Delaware State Board Member Deborah Stevens. “Her strong educational expertise and policy knowledge advanced several key board initiatives, and she was diligent in supporting members’ development.”

During her tenure, Smith served as an officer of the National Council of State Boards of Education Executives and was a member of NASBE’s Early Literacy Work Group. As part of NASBE’s Early Childhood Education Network, she supported Delaware’s efforts to review its early literacy certification and professional development system and explore ways to expand its reach. After the pandemic, Smith worked with Delaware’s student member to revive “student forums” to engage with middle and high school students statewide and share their insights with the board. Smith was also one of NASBE’s most engaged members, consistently attending Member Exchanges, webinars, and conferences to share Delaware’s work and bring back what she learned about other states’ education initiatives.

Previously, Smith spent more than 25 years as a music and performing arts teacher in Delaware’s Caesar Rodney School District before working as an adjunct professor in two of Delaware’s higher education institutions as well as at a community-based organization. She holds a master’s in music performance from the University of Delaware and a bachelor’s in music education from West Chester University. She is now serving as a school program guide at the Winterthur Museum, Garden, and Library, one of her favorite places.

“Kathleen’s dedication to Delaware’s students shows in everything she does, from her policy expertise to the steady, thoughtful support she gave board members year after year,” said Paolo DeMaria, NASBE’s president and CEO. “Her consistent engagement with NASBE reflects the best of what this award honors. We are grateful for her service and proud to recognize her many contributions to public education.”

The award will be presented during NASBE’s Annual Conference in Baltimore, Maryland, on October 28, 2026. The recognition is awarded to an individual who has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to NASBE values and service to state boards. It is named in honor of David Kysilko, a longtime NASBE employee who retired in 2014.

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