Derrill Smith has been a teacher, coach, and athletic administrator for 42 years. He has worked for Crossett, Center, Texas, and the El Dorado school district. He also served as dean of students for El Dorado, and currently teaching at the Alternative Learning School.

Smith graduated from Magnolia High School, going on to Southern Arkansas University to pursue a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree. He is married to Lydia and together have two sons, Jeff and Scott. They also have a few grandchildren and a daughter-in-law. Smith is a member of El Dorado’s Immanuel Baptist Church, where he serves as a Deacon, usher, safety team member, and Sunday school teacher.

He served several years as Chairman of the Senior High School Conference, as well as chaired two different Junior High Conferences. During his career, Smith helped start several sports at El Dorado High School such as boys and girls club soccer, boys and girls AAA soccer, girls slow pitch and fast pitch softball, and girls volleyball. He was also involved with the renovation and new construction of athletic facilities.

Smith strived to continue his education and took 21 leadership training courses each year, attended state and national athletic director conferences, and a registered volunteer coach instructor. Smith was presented with the State Association’s Award of Merit, and Athletic Director of the Year. Also, he served on the AHSAAA board of directors as Awards Chairman, Vice President and President.