Today, I had the honor of presenting a proclamation on behalf of the Clayton County Sheriff’s Office to Dr. Anthony W. Smith, recognizing his outstanding leadership and service as Superintendent of Clayton County Public Schools.
Since his appointment in December 2022, Dr. Smith has led with vision, discipline, and a deep commitment to student success—strengthening academic performance, modernizing facilities, prioritizing school safety, and restoring pride across our district.
For me, this moment is also life-changing.
As a young eighth-grade boy at a crossroads, Dr. Smith chose to mentor me, pouring into me discipline, guidance, and belief when I needed it most. He taught me early that there are no dead ends in life—only detours with purpose.
Today, I stand as Sheriff of Clayton County, living testimony to the power of his mentorship.
Dr. Smith’s legacy will live on not only in our schools, but in the lives he has transformed for generations to come.
With sincere gratitude and respect,
SHERIFF LEVON ALLEN
Securing the Future. Protecting the Peace.
PROCLAMATION
Honoring Anthony W. Smith
An Outstanding Citizen and Transformational Leader
WHEREAS, Dr. Anthony W. Smith was appointed Superintendent of Clayton County Public Schools on December 5, 2022, bringing with him a steadfast commitment to excellence, accountability, and student success; and
WHEREAS, under his visionary leadership, Clayton County Public Schools has strengthened academic performance, reinforced high expectations, and fostered a culture of achievement that empowers every student to reach their fullest potential; and
WHEREAS, he has led meaningful modernization of school facilities, ensuring that students and educators learn and work in environments that are safe, innovative, and conducive to 21st-century learning; and
WHEREAS, Superintendent Smith has prioritized the safety and well-being of students and staff, implementing measures that promote secure campuses and peace of mind for families throughout the community; and
WHEREAS, as a distinguished veteran of the United States Air Force, he embodies discipline, honor, integrity, and a profound spirit of service that continues to guide his leadership; and
WHEREAS, his dedication to strengthening partnerships among families, educators, community leaders, and stakeholders has elevated the district’s reputation and restored pride across Clayton County; and
WHEREAS, through courage, commitment, and character, he has proven himself to be a true life changer whose influence will be felt for generations to come;
WHEREAS, Dr. Anthony W. Smith encountered a young eighth-grade boy at a pivotal crossroads in his life and chose not merely to advise him, but to personally mentor him—breathing life into his vision, lecturing him with purpose, instilling discipline, and administering the firm yet compassionate “tough love” required to build character and resilience; and
WHEREAS, long before it became a widely spoken message, Dr. Smith consistently preached that there are no dead ends in life—only detours, growth, and divine purpose—and he ensured that this young man understood that truth at an early age; and
WHEREAS, that once impressionable young boy has grown into a man of honor and public service and now serves as Sheriff of Clayton County, Georgia- I am standing as living testimony to the transformational power of mentorship, belief, discipline, and unwavering guidance; and
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Sheriff Levon Allen of Clayton County, Georgia, do hereby honor Dr. Anthony W. Smith as a true life changer—whose leadership not only strengthens institutions, but shapes destinies and transforms lives for generations to come.
