Featured Speaker

Dominique Smith, Ed.D.

Chief of Educational Services and Teacher Support, Health Sciences High and Middle College

Dominique Smith, Ed.D. (he/him/his) is Chief of Educational Services and Teacher Support at Health Sciences High and Middle College in San Diego, California. Smith is passionate about creating school environments that honor and empower students. His research and instruction focuses on restorative practices, classroom management, growth mindset, and the culture of achievement. Dominique also provides professional learning to K-12 teachers in small and large groups that address classroom and school climate and organization. He holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from San Diego State University with an emphasis on equity as well as a Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California. Dominique also holds credentials from San Diego State University in administrative services, child welfare, PPS, and attendance. Smith has been recognized with the National School Safety Award from the School Safety Advocacy Council. In 2018, he delivered a TED Talk on building relationships between students and teachers.

BOOST TALKS GENERAL SeSSIOn

Dominique will participate as a Featured Speaker in "BOOST Talks: Inspire Youth, Inspire Learning, Inspire Change" at the Opening General Session on Thursday, May 2, from 8:45am-9:45am in the Palm Springs Convention Center.

Dominique Smith focuses on fostering a sense of inclusion and community within schools, exploring strategies and initiatives aimed at creating an atmosphere where every student feels valued, accepted, and connected. Drawing on personal experiences and successes, he will highlight the positive impact of a strong sense of belonging on academic achievement, social well-being, and overall school culture. Gain valuable insights and practical ideas to implement in their school settings, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and supportive educational experience for students.

MASTER CLASS with Dominique Smith

Dominique Smith, Ed.D. will present his Master Class on Thursday, May 2, from 10:00am - 12:00pm at the 2024 BOOST Conference. 

You can register for this Master Class in your online account. We anticipate that this Master Class will be SOLD OUT and we recommend pre-registering in your online account to ensure access to this class.

Creating a Sense of Belonging

In this class, participants can expect to gain valuable insights into the role of school leadership in shaping the overall climate of a school and the impact it has on relationships among students, educators, and staff. The class will provide practical strategies for creating a welcoming and inclusive environment that supports collaboration, communication, and a sense of belonging.
E, M, H, ULA, MLA, CB, DS

Meet the Authors

Dominique Smith will also be participating in our Meet the Authors event on Thursday, May 2, 2024, from 12:00pm-1:00pm in the Exhibit Hall. Meet Dominique and get your book signed by him on-site at the conference. You canpre-purchase the book in your online account and pick it up at the BOOST Booth (#0101 & 0105) on Thursday afternoon. 

Belonging in Schools
Creating a Place Where Kids Want to Learn and Teachers Want to Stay--An Illustrated Playbook

Belonging is an instinctual feeling: you know when you feel it—and you really know when you don’t. Creating a sense of belonging in the classroom has a significant impact on student learning and well-being; it serves as a gatekeeper for other aspects of learning to take root. But how do we create classrooms and schools where every student knows they belong?

This easy-to-use, illustrated playbook has you covered. 11 evidence-based modules feature actions and strategies that teachers can apply to help students feel more included. Interactive features such as essential questions and reflective prompts are designed to engage educators and deepen their understanding of the importance of connection and belonging in a student's educational experience.

GETTING TO KNOW Dominique Smith

BOOST is proud to bring prominent experts, researchers, and leaders to our General Sessions. We have created a useful guide to support your learning prior to attending the BOOST Conference. Download our guide on 5 Ways to Educate Your Team on Dominique Smith and share these with your team so you know what to expect from our 2024 BOOST Conference Keynote Speaker.

Click the image below to download.