The Barksdale Family!

BTS

Welcome to Smart's Mill Middle School. My name is Velera Barksdale and I am excited about the 2023-2024 school year. I am an Instructional Specialist.  I really enjoy shopping (who doesn't), baking, traveling, and reading a good book. I also enjoy spending time with my family. We love to travel anytime we are afforded the opportunity.  I received my Bachelor's Degree from Old Dominion University and my Master's Degree from Arizona State University. I started my teaching career in Virginia. Due to my husband's career, we have relocated numerous times. In addition to Virginia, I've also taught in California, Arizona, Maryland, and Texas. I have been teaching for 19 years. Wow! This will be my ninth year at Smart's Mill Middle School. This year I will be teaching Reading Strategies and Decoding to 6th, 7th, and 8th graders.

I am looking forward to this school year. Together, we can make it work!

Velera Barksdale, M.Ed. 

Instructional Specialist

6th, 7th, and 8th Grade Reading Strategies/Decoding

Smart's Mill Middle School 

"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world"-Nelson Mandela