Chicago Native Begins Her Career at Lee High School

Daija Smoot came to Alabama A&M University from Chicago without any immediate family ties to the institution, but she quickly found a place where she could grow. She later learned her cousin, Demico Cole, attended AAMU in 1993 as a civil engineering major, a discovery that added another meaningful connection to her journey on The Hill.

This fall, Smoot will earn her Master of Education in Special Education with a concentration in collaborative special education for grades 6–12, building on the bachelor’s degree in physical education she earned at AAMU in 2023. She secured a full-time teaching position at Lee High School before graduation and began her role as a ninth-grade collaborative teacher the day after Labor Day.

Smoot describes her work as centered on partnership and support. As a collaborative educator, she works alongside general education teachers to support all students, including those with disabilities and those with diverse learning needs. She co-plans and co-teaches, helping ensure every student can access the curriculum through strategies such as differentiated instruction and appropriate accommodations.

“I make sure my students feel heard and supported, whether they need help with their academics or just someone to talk to,” she said. “I advocate for them and encourage them to advocate for themselves. One student even told me I deserve a raise and that I’m a great teacher. I also listen to their suggestions about how they want to be taught.”

She added that students and staff have come to view her as dependable, and she was honored to be named Teacher of the Week within her first three weeks at Lee High. Smoot’s interest in AAMU began when a high school teacher introduced her to historically Black colleges and universities. She said AAMU stood out immediately, offering strong academic programs and a sense of belonging. With family in Talladega, moving to Huntsville also brought her closer to home.

“My time on The Hill was truly a learning experience that shaped me into the woman I am today,” she said. “I will always cherish the memories of Every Sunny Wednesday, the parties on the Quad, step shows and Homecoming. Those moments were filled with community and joy. I am grateful for the connections I built and for the opportunities to learn from others, from classmates sharing advice to alumni offering their wisdom and perspective.”

Smoot credits several AAMU faculty members with supporting and challenging her throughout her academic journey. “Ms. Donika Scott, Dr. Lydia Davenport, Mr. Myron Boyd and Dr. Janet M’mbaha-Zarnesky poured into me in ways I’ll never forget, along with former faculty member Gemma Sivetz,” she said. “They believed in me, challenged me and guided me to reach my full potential as an educator.”

Her preparation included internships at Horizon Elementary School and Huntsville Junior High School, as well as a collaborative practicum on campus. She hopes to earn National Board Certification and eventually pursue an education specialist degree, with a long-term goal of becoming Teacher of the Year.

Smoot encourages future students to choose AAMU for the relationships and support that extend beyond the classroom. “AAMU is more than a campus; it’s a family that helps you grow, believe in yourself and find your purpose,” she said.

She also shared gratitude for the people who supported her throughout her academic journey. “I want to thank God, my mom, my dad, Jailyn, Tyrone, my grandmothers, aunties, cousins, uncles, Sharkayla, White, Smith and Chaya. They’ve been my anchor through it all.”

As she prepares to walk in AAMU’s Fall 2025 Commencement on Dec. 12 at the Event Center, Smoot said the University will always remain part of her story. “Alabama A&M University has felt like a family, and the memories and relationships I’ve made here will always hold a special place in my heart.”