Bates Academy Honors Beloved Educator Mr. Kevin D. Smith
![The image shows a plaque dedicated to the Kevin D. Smith Memorial Gymnasium at Bates Academy, featuring a photograph of a smiling older man with gray hair and a beard.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1772918001/detroitk12org/qr9rcekgwnyddd3t6cif/thumbnail.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1772918001/detroitk12org/qr9rcekgwnyddd3t6cif/thumbnail.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1772918001/detroitk12org/qr9rcekgwnyddd3t6cif/thumbnail.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1772918001/detroitk12org/qr9rcekgwnyddd3t6cif/thumbnail.jpg","width":960}])
Bates Academy Honors Beloved Educator Mr. Kevin D. Smith
On March 6, 2026, Bates Academy proudly dedicated its gymnasium in honor of former physical education teacher Mr. Kevin D. Smith, who made his transition on December 9, 2020. Students and staff gathered for the meaningful ceremony to celebrate Mr. Smith’s lasting impact on the school community. During the dedication, Ms. Cassandra Smith, Mr. Smith’s wife, shared heartfelt words with those in attendance, reflecting on his passion for students and his love for teaching. Their son, Garrett, also joined the special moment via FaceTime to be part of the tribute. The ceremony marked a lasting legacy for Mr. Smith, as the gym was officially named the Kevin D. Smith Memorial Gymnasium, ensuring that his dedication to Bates Academy will continue to inspire students for years to come.
