The Prospect Primary School’s library has been named after former teacher and reading specialist, the late Michael Eugene Smith.

The Department of Education, school staff, and the family of Mr Smith celebrated the dedication yesterday, with many speaking of Mr Smith’s passion for reading, tutoring, and even fashion.

Volunteers, along with the Continental Society of Bermuda have worked with the school to complete the project, while the Continental Society further donated $500 toward purchasing books for the library.

“We are very proud of the legacy that Michael left and the impact he had on students and their families,” said Mr Smith’s sister, Beverley Jones. “In his passing we met so many students who were touched by his dedication to reading and literacy.”

“Mr Smith taught in a number of schools as a substitute teacher and a reading teacher.

“His last teaching assignment was at Prospect Primary School from 2001-2005.

“He was very concerned about the reading levels of his students and the progress that they were making.

“His greatest challenge was to ensure that students grasped the necessary reading skills in their year level,” said Principal, Dr Shangri-La Durham-Thompson.

Dr Durham-Thompson added that the Reading Recovery Programme was especially important to Mr Smith, and that he would regularly tutor students that needed extra help.

“Often he would have students in his room early before the school bell, assisting them with their reading or checking on their homework assignments.

“Parents have commented that their children are reading better today because of the time Mr Smith spent with them. It was a real joy for Mr Smith to be a part of the teaching profession.

“He has made great contributions to the education systems both locally, and in the United States of America. [He] will be fondly remembered as a meticulous dresser with a passion for tennis, also as a man of few words but a deep thinker and avid reader.”