Jim Smith graduated from Mount Union College in 1990 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Sports Medicine and Secondary Education. He continued his education at the University of Akron as a Graduate Assistant, receiving a Master of Science degree in Exercise Physiology in 1992.  Prior to teaching Jim worked at the Dayton Heart Center as a Exercise Physiologist. In 1995, he started teaching Health and Physical Education at Northmont Schools, he is the Department Chairman and is the Assistant Athletic Director.