Mark Smith, co-owner and general manager of Krapohl Ford & Lincoln, said he and his wife, Shelly, are committed to helping education in the community.
Mark and Shelly Smith have been involved at Renaissance Public School Academy since their three sons started going there — and the oldest now is 21.
Shelly would read with students, taught Spanish and served as president of the parent teacher organization at the K-8 school on Isabella Road. Mark then joined the school board, and today serves as its president.
“Kids and education are important,” said Mark, a third-generation owner of Mount Pleasant’s only locally owned and operated, full-service dealership. “I grew up watching my parents give back to the community, and Shelly and I work to instill that same ethic in our boys.”
The Smiths are co-owners of Krapohl Ford & Lincoln, along with Tom Krapohl. Those who know them say their influence and impact goes far beyond their immediate family.
“Mark and Shelly are champions for Renaissance and the community as a whole,” said Lisa Bergman, executive director of the school. “They’re role models. Businesses such as Krapohl Ford & Lincoln, which has been a community leader for decades, help all of us. They also challenge all of us to care more and help more.”
The Smiths live west of Mount Pleasant, in the Montebella school district. They began exploring options after learning the boys would have a 45-minute bus ride each way, to and from school.
Mark is proud of positioning Renaissance to buy its building and supporting the leadership team and staff as they reshaped the school with an emphasis on project-based learning.
“Renaissance offers something unique in the community,” Mark said. “The school is in strong financial shape, and students and teachers alike are happy.
“It’s gratifying to watch teachers guide students as they dig in and do projects that expand their knowledge of the world, help them identify their passions and build their confidence. This has been a good school for our family,” he said.
Lisa Diaz Sytsema, vice president of the board, said Mark’s constant view of what’s best for students is invaluable.
“Mark is committed to keeping students and the entire school community as our center of focus. His leadership and business expertise are essential when we take on new initiatives that advance learning experiences,” Sytsema said.
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