Now retired after more than three decades in education, Dorothy A. Taylor Smalbein concluded her career in 2000 as a guidance counselor at Pine Trail Elementary School on behalf of the Volusia County School Board in Ormond Beach, Florida. Originally hired in 1966 as a substitute teacher, she was later appointed to the role of a guidance counselor in 1978, a capacity in which she remained throughout the rest of her tenure. An instrumental figure within the district, Ms. Smalbein founded the Terrific Kid Program for elementary school students and was responsible for organizing an annual school-wide program, in which students would meet with area doctors, lawyers and members of public service to gain insight into their careers.
As an expert in group counseling for those suffering from loss and grief, Ms. Smalbein has been known for her contributions to her community. She notably conducted various community workshop before several different parenting groups throughout the Pine Trail community. Ms. Smalbein was also actively involved with organizing the Beach Clean Up program at Daytona Beach, Florida.
After studying at Saint Lawrence University in New York for two years, Ms. Smalbein later transferred to the University of Central Florida, where she acquired a Bachelor of Arts in 1971 and a Master of Education in counseling in 1978. Aligned with several professional organizations, she is a member of the Florida School Counselors Association, the Florida Association for Counseling and Development, and the Retirement Group of Volusia County Teachers. Ms. Smalbein is a member and former sunshine chairman and treasurer of the Volusia Association for Counseling and Development, and a member and former chairman of the Volusia County Elementary Counselors Association.
In 1979, Ms. Smalbein received an Outstanding Service Award from Volusia County Counselors. A celebrated Marquis listee, she has been showcased in the third edition of Who’s Who Among Human Services Professionals, and the 24th and 25th editions of Who’s Who in the South and Southwest. Since retiring, Ms. Smalbein has had more time to dedicate to her avocations, including playing the piano and singing.
Ms. Smalbein became involved in the field of education because she came from a family of teachers including her grandmother, aunt and great-aunt. She was also greatly influenced by her best friend, Ann Oikley. The biggest highlight that stood out to her the most was the work she did for the children and making a change in their lives. Additionally, Ms. Smalbein’s family is very involved in music. Her son has had a passion for music since he was young, playing in his high school’s marching band. Her son grew up to create his own business in the music industry, through which he gets hired to play at parties and even several radio stations.