It’s Halloween, and a figure straight out of a beloved classic is bustling through the hallways. Wearing a black hat, a patterned scarf, and holding an umbrella, she rummages through a floral carpet bag before spotting students outside. “Girls, come in quick!” she calls, ushering them into the classroom. From her bag, she pulls out a bag of mints. “Thanks, Mrs. Smith,” the students say, wide-eyed. That’s when the realization hits: Mrs. Smith isn’t just any substitute teacher today—she’s Mary Poppins.
For Leida Smith, a substitute teacher with over 15 years at Riviera, moments like this are second nature. Known for her unwavering dedication and unique ability to balance discipline with kindness, Smith has become a cornerstone of our school community.
“I’ve been working at Riviera since my daughter attended this school. She’s an adult now,” Smith shares with a laugh. Reflecting on her years of experience, she adds, “I just enjoy being with the kids. A lot of students know me as ‘Mrs. Smith, that crazy, strict lady,’ but I want them to realize how important it is to work hard. If you do that, you can go anywhere in life.”
Smith’s reputation extends beyond her classroom demeanor. Dennis Gatto, Assistant Head of School for High School, highlights her commitment: “For her, this is a career. She’d happily substitute every day. When Mrs. Smith walks in, students know it’s time to get serious. She’s consistent, and that’s a rare quality.”
But it’s not all rules and structure, Smith’s yearly Halloween tradition of dressing as Mary Poppins has become a beloved event at Riviera. “I’ve always adored the movie,” Smith says. “When my daughter was young, she’d watch Mary Poppins nonstop. It became a part of our lives.” Spotting a Poppins costume years ago, Smith embraced the opportunity and has donned the iconic outfit every Halloween since.
This year, she elevated her costume, crafting her own version of Mary Poppins’ carpet bag. Using fabric, wire, and her sewing skills, Smith created a piece that even the magical nanny herself would admire. “I love how Mary Poppins is strict but playful, always finding fun in the mundane,” she explains. “That’s what I want to bring to the classroom—a balance of work and joy.”
Smith’s connection to the character isn’t just about the costume. To her, Mary Poppins represents an approach to life: “Do your work, but do it with a little fun,” she says. Her cheerful perspective leaves a lasting impression on students and staff alike.
However, Smith’s impact is felt year-round. Known for her reliability, she’s the first call when a teacher needs coverage. Her presence ensures students continue learning seamlessly, even in a teacher’s absence.
Substitute teachers often go unrecognized, yet their roles are vital. The National Education Association describes them as “educational bridges,” ensuring classrooms stay connected and functional when regular teachers are unavailable. At Riviera, Smith exemplifies this role, reminding everyone that substitutes are more than placeholders—they’re essential contributors to a school’s success.
With her Mary Poppins costume, dedication to students, and warm, no-nonsense approach, Leida Smith is a testament to how much a substitute can inspire and impact their students.
