About our driving school

Jason Smoots, a distinguished track and field athlete from Gadsden, Alabama, competed at the NCAA Division II level from 1999 to 2003, achieving remarkable success. He is a six-time NCAA Division II National Champion, claiming titles in the 2001 indoor 55m, 2001 outdoor 100m, 2002 indoor 60m, 2002 outdoor 100m, 2002 outdoor 4x100m, and 2003 indoor 60m. Notably, he became the first NCAA Division II sprinter to win three consecutive indoor sprint national titles in the 55-meter and 60-meter dashes. Smoots is an eight-time NCAA All-American, a six-time individual conference champion named the 2003 NCAA Division II Male Outdoor Track Athlete of the Year. His accolades include being twice honored as the CIAA Most Outstanding Male Track Athlete (2002 indoor, 2001 outdoor) and the NCAA Division II Southeast Regional Men's Indoor Track Athlete of the Year. He also won in the 100-meter dash at the 2003 Penn Relays.

Smoots showcased his talent on the international stage by winning the 4x100 meters relay at the 2002 IAAF World Cup alongside Jon Drummond, Kaaron Conwright, and Coby Miller. He repeated this feat at the 2006 IAAF World Cup, setting a championship record of 37.59 seconds with teammates Kaaron Conwright, Wallace Spearmon, and Tyson Gay.

In recognition of his outstanding career achievements, Mayor Bill Bell proclaimed October 26, 2002, as "Jason Smoots Day" in the City of Durham, North Carolina.

In addition to his athletic achievements, Jason Smoots has dedicated 11 years to education as a Health and PE teacher, two years as a Driver’s Ed Instructor, and has over a decade of experience coaching track in Wake County Public Schools and Durham Public Schools.

Kadeidra Smoots, a native and product of Vance County Schools, brings a wealth of educational experience to her role at The Smoots Driving Academy. She has served as a 6th-grade Language Arts/Social Studies Teacher, School Counselor, Dean of Students, Behavior Specialist, Assistant Principal, Principal, and Executive Director of Staffing. Kadeidra holds a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science, a Master's Degree in Public Administration and School Counseling, and an add-on Principal licensure from North Carolina Central University. She is pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Management at National University, with an expected graduation in 2024. A dedicated educator and mother of a 20-year-old son, Kadeidra is passionate about providing opportunities for all students to succeed. Her favorite quote, "Never be afraid to sit awhile and think," reflects her belief in the power of reflection and learning.

Dr. Donna Smoots is a distinguished education professional within the Gadsden City School System, where she has dedicated over a decade to serving as an administrator for the Gadsden City Board of Education. A proud graduate of the historic Talladega College in Talladega, Alabama, Dr. Smoots earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Rehabilitation and Social Work. She further advanced her academic credentials by obtaining a Master of Arts in Special Education and an Educational Specialist and Doctorate in Counselor Education from the University of Alabama. Dr. Smoots has held pivotal roles throughout her career, including teacher, counselor, principal, and coordinator. She serves as the Director of Student Services and Attendance, overseeing the Secondary Alternative School Program and the School Counselors for Gadsden City Schools. Dr. Smoots is an active member of several professional organizations, including District VI of the Alabama Association of Attendance Supervisors, the Alabama School Counseling Association, and CLAS. Additionally, she is an engaged member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Bryson Carr is a Graphic Design and Computer Science major at UNC Charlotte. He is the owner and operator of Pokeasy UX, where he combines his passion for design and technology. Bryson enjoys creating and gaming, bringing a creative and analytical approach to his teaching methodology at The Smoots Driving Academy. His technical expertise and innovative thinking make him a valuable asset to the team, ensuring students receive a well-rounded and engaging driver education experience.