Meet Nicholas Smith, Director of Educational Technology

The importance of technology in education has increased exponentially over the past few years—and with that, so too has the need for expertise and leadership for incorporating it in meaningful, age-appropriate ways. As Wildwood’s Director of Educational Technology, Nicolas (Nick) Smith combines his passion for technology and progressive K-12 education to empower teachers and students to find healthy and radical ways to think about, carefully embrace, and actively create new technologies.  

“I get to be a futurist by imagining the world students may inherit to best determine the skills and concepts they will need to thrive,” says Nick. “I admire their ability to quickly find new and creative purposes for technology and love to see their curiosity and confidence for using, remixing, and repurposing technology grow through their years at Wildwood.” 

Paired with Wildwood's core learnings, including the Life Skills and Habits of Mind and Heart, our community's commitment to DEIB work gives me hope for an ethical, equitable, and sustainable future. - NICHOLAS SMITH, DIRECTOR OF EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY

Nick finds that this sense of curiosity and growth mindset around technology is inherent in Wildwood’s faculty as well.

“I find Wildwood teachers to be amazingly open and willing to embrace the continual learning and re-learning that thoughtful technology integration requires,” Nick says. “Their willingness to embrace whatever contributes to innovative learning environments never ceases to amaze me.” 

Beyond technology, Nick is also heavily invested in Wildwood’s work around Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB), serving as a member of the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion,and  Belonging Leadership Team (DEIBLT), as well as co-advisor of the Upper School Students of Color Affinity Group.

“Paired with Wildwood’s core learnings, including the Life Skills and Habits of Mind and Heart, our community’s commitment to DEIB work gives me hope for an ethical, equitable, and sustainable future,” Nick says.

Nick came to Wildwood in 2017, bringing years of experience in design, marketing, and digital asset management to his first role as Instructional Technology Coach at the middle and upper campus. He took on his current role of Director of Educational Technology in 2022. A California native, Nick has a BA in Music Industry & Technology from California State University-Chico, as well as a masters in Learning Technologies from Pepperdine’s Graduate School of Education and Psychology.

Around Wildwood, Nick is also known for a few other talents—notably, his amazing Spotify playlists and automotive engineering/motorsports. 

“My current project is an old Audi TT that I brought back to life during the pandemic,” says Nick. “Just a few more adjustments and it will be ready for the race track!”