Heather Smith has over 27 years of experience in public education and currently serves as Director of Early Education and Development for the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools (SBCSS). She leads a team dedicated to expanding access to high-quality, developmentally appropriate learning environments for children ages 0–8. Before joining SBCSS, she was an elementary school principal and teacher for grades TK–6.

Heather has been married to her husband, Brad, for 30 years and is a proud mom to two sons, Nate (22) and Sean (20), along with their dogs, Moose and Milo. She is passionate about early language and literacy, seeing it as key to bright futures. Her vision is a society where every child and family has the support and resources they need to succeed.