Smith retiring from Gowanda schools

Jan 22, 2026

Braden Carmen
Reporter
bcarmen@observertoday.com

At left, Submitted Photo Gowanda Middle/High School Assistant Principal David Smith is set to retire at the end of the school year. Smith is pictured with his wife, Jill.

GOWANDA - David Smith has been a pillar of the Gowanda community for decades. He served as Gowanda Mayor for seven years and as an administrator at Gowanda Schools for more than two decades.

Two years after resigning as mayor, this year will be his last as a school principal. Smith is set to retire from Gowanda Schools after 23 years as an administrator.

Smith's final day on campus will be the last day of this school year, with his retirement officially taking effect on Aug. 14 after exhausting his remaining vacation time. He stated that he will look back on his time at Gowanda Schools "with love, respect and admiration."

Smith has spent 33 years in the field of education, and called it "an absolute pleasure" to serve as an administrator at Gowanda for 23 years. His most recent role has been as Assistant Principal of Gowanda Middle/High School. Smith highlighted a few colleagues in his resignation letter, including Superintendent Dr. Robert Anderson, who he called "a friend and colleague for almost 20 years."

Smith commended High School Principal Rebekah Newell "for her outstanding leadership, organization, attention to detail and willingness to always do what is best." Smith also thanked Janene Draegert and Barb Dempsey, who he said will both be joining him in retirement.

Smith previously resigned as Mayor of Gowanda in June of 2024 after he stated he had become "oversaturated" and "overwhelmed" with the duties as Mayor, within the school, and as a proud member of the Gowanda Free Methodist Church. His tenure as Mayor was highlighted by increasing the village's reserve accounts by 240%, minimal tax increases, and receiving a $4.5 million NY Forward Grant.

At the time of his resignation as Mayor, Smith said, “Who we are is not determined by the positions we hold. Who we are is determined by our hearts and how we use the gifts that God has given us to serve other people and help other people.”

Smith stated he wanted to spend more time with his family when he resigned as mayor. He expressed his gratitude to the families of Gowanda in his resignation letter before his retirement takes effect.

"I would like to thank all the students and families I have had the pleasure to work with and get to know over all these years. Your support has been outstanding," Smith said. "I will forever be thankful to God for giving me the chance to impact so many families over my career."

Following Board approval of Smith's retirement resignation, Anderson offered congratulations to Smith and wished him the best in his retirement.