Sarah Marie Smith officially announces her candidacy for Tennessee House of Representatives in the 40th District. 
“It would be an honor and privilege to serve as your State Representative,” said Smith. “I would deeply appreciate your vote and your support.”
Smith is a native of Smith County.  She is the daughter of Ervin and Mary Etta Smith. Her father was an educator for over forty years, serving as both teacher and principal at Smith County High School. 
Her mother was a secretary at the County Extension office.  She assisted 4-H Club and FCE members throughout Smith Count. Her parents were both members of Carthage United Methodist Church, where Smith is also a member.
Samuel Smith, Sarah Marie’s brother, is an archeologist whose work has taken him to historical sites throughout Tennessee.
She added, “Of special joy to me are my niece, nephew, and grand nieces and nephews.” 
Smith currently resides in Smith County, the fifth generation of her family to live here.  “There is no place more beautiful or people more caring than right here in Middle Tennessee,” said Smith. 
She graduated from Smith County High School and MTSU, and she received a master’s degree from Lipscomb University. 
Smith has been affiliated with a variety of civic and professional groups.  Some of these include: Leadership Opportunity Smith County, Carthage Rotary Club, Smith County Historical and Genealogical Society - Vice-President, Smith County Chamber of Commerce,  Smith County Fair Board, FCE “Mary Etta Smith Memorial Rally and Luncheon” sponsor, CASA Smith/Wilson Counties - Board of Directors, Metro Nashville Public Schools Student Nutrition Committee, Nashville Sustainable Business Summit, Tennessee Environmental Council, Screen Actors Guild, and Alpha Chi National Honor Society.  Smith also has a Tennessee Teaching Credential for grades 7-12.
Smith added, “I am a Tennessee Supreme Court Listed Mediator. My work involves both civil and family disputes.  Currently I serve on the Board of Directors for the Tennessee Association of Professional Mediators.  I also teach conflict management skills to schools and businesses. 
From my professional experience as a mediator, I have come to understand how important it is for all sides of an issue to come to the table together and find solutions that work best for everyone involved. As your State Representative, I will use these skill sets to work with Democrats and Republicans in support of legislation in the best interest of the people.   My pledge is to serve the people … not the party, not special interest … the people.”    
Smith went on to say, “Teachers hold a special place in my heart, and public education will be a top issue for me as your State Representative. The challenges that teachers face today are enormous. We need people in the State Legislature who will respect, support, and work in collaboration with our teachers and administrators. Great public schools mean better jobs and a more thriving economy for the people of Tennessee.”
Smith’s name will be on the democratic ballot in the August primary election.  In the November, she will challenge incumbent Terri Lynn Weaver in the general election. 
“I would deeply appreciate your vote and your support in both the primary and general elections,” said Smith. 
To learn more about Sarah Marie Smith and her campaign, visit www.Smith4TN.com.  If you have access to Facebook, “LIKE” her campaign page “Sarah Marie Smith for TN House,” and you will receive news about upcoming events.
Smith added that she wants to extend a special invitation to the teachers and administrators of DeKalb County schools.  “Please join me on Tuesday, May 20th at 3:30 p.m. in the County Complex Building for a ‘Teacher Appreciation’ reception,” Smith said. “This will give us an opportunity to talk about issues important to you as educators and how I can best serve you as your State Representative.” 
Educators are asked to RSVP for the Teacher Appreciation reception by Monday, May 19th at mailto:smith4tn@att.net"smith4tn@att.net .