Hello, my name is Richard Smith, and I am very excited to be the physical education teacher at Tarpon Springs Fundamental. I graduated from Brockport State University in Brockport, New York with a BS degree in physical education, and a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of South Florida. I began my teaching career in 1998 as an elementary physical education teacher in Boise, Idaho. Since moving to Tarpon Springs in 2002, I have enjoyed working as a physical education teacher at Sunset Hills Elementary, and as their school’s student achievement coach. In 2018, I joined TSFES as the physical education teacher. Additionally, I have worked as an adjunct professor at the University of South Florida teaching health and physical education curriculum.

My wife and I enjoy spending time outdoors with our two children, Cameron and Emma. Camping, fishing, kayaking, basketball, baseball, golf, and tennis are some of our favorite activities. We also share a love for animals, art, and music. Sports, art, and music have provided my family with lots of opportunities to learn from each other, inspire each other, and create positive memories that will last a lifetime.

 It is my mission to create a safe learning environment for our students’ at Tarpon Springs Fundamental. An environment that provides all students with lots of opportunities to enjoy being outdoors, learn from each other, inspire each other, and create positive memories that will last them a lifetime!

Hello families, my name is Joseph Paez. I have been volunteering here at TSFES since 2008 and now have the pleasure of being the PE Assistant here at this wonderful school. I have spent hundreds of hours volunteering as the Kindergarten Science Dad, going on field trips, helping Dr. Cruz teach drumming and still volunteer countless hours as the Director/Producer of the TSFES Drama Club.

 I am a proud parent of two TSFES alumni. One is now a student at Florida State University and the other is at Tarpon Springs High in the Leadership Conservatory for the Arts Program. Being both a parent and now a teacher here at TSFES gives me a great understanding of what it takes to create a positive educational experience for your child. Thank you for your continued support!