Administration
Smith Academy for Excellence is led by an administrative team consisting of a School Leader, and two assistant School Leaders. Together, these administrators ensure that the school operates productively and efficiently.
Corey Smith
Co-Founder and School Leader
As School Leader, Corey Smith oversees and manages organizational, fiscal, and employment matters. He establishes a school culture of success supported by a climate that is conducive to high achievement.
Mr. Smith holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Grace College and a Master of Education Administration from Grand Canyon University. He was a teacher in Fort Wayne from 2004 to 2012. During those years, he was a high school assistant basketball coach for girls for one year and for boys for three years. He held leadership roles as a teacher including Math Bowl Coach, Quality Improvement Team member, Thinking Skills Coach, and Leadership Team member. Mr. Smith piloted the Primary Years Program, International Baccalaureate’s elementary program, for his school and led the school through the process of adopting elements of that program.
Since 2012, Mr. Smith has been an administrator at Smith Academy, holding positions as Chief Academic Officer, Assistant School Leader and School Leader. He has received various honors including a 2017 Greater Fort Wayne Business Weekly Forty under 40 Award.
Zachary Brown
Assistant School Leader
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As Assistant School Leader, Mr. Brown supports the School Leader in fostering a positive school culture and ensuring student success. His responsibilities include overseeing student discipline and attendance, assisting with academic programming, supporting school operations, and strengthening partnerships with families and the community.
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Mr. Brown holds a Bachelor of Arts in Health and Physical Education and a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology from West Liberty University. He earned a Master of Arts in Education: Leadership and Coaching from West Liberty University and completed his Post-Master's Building Level Administration License through Purdue University Fort Wayne. Mr. Brown also holds a Post-Master's Autism Endorsement and maintains professional administrative licenses in Indiana, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia.
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Mr. Brown has previously served in roles including classroom teacher, Dean of Students, Site Director, and coach at both the high school and collegiate levels. In addition to his work in schools, he has held leadership roles in athletics, helping recruit, mentor, and develop student-athletes while promoting academic excellence. Mr. Brown joined Smith Academy for Excellence in 2026 and is passionate about building strong relationships with students, families, and staff while helping every learner reach their full potential.
