A little about Jeff Smink

Deputy Director

Jeff Smink is the deputy director at EdTrust-New York. He works closely with the executive director to develop and implement the organization’s strategic goals and key initiatives, while leading policy and advocacy strategies at the state and local levels.

Jeff brings over 20 years of experience in education policy at the national, state, and local levels, working on issues affecting students from cradle to career. Most recently, he led his own consulting practice, collaborating with a wide variety of organizations, including City Year Buffalo, High Achievement New York, YMCA of the USA, and the Campaign for Grade Level Reading.

Prior to consulting, Jeff was a co-founder and vice president of policy at the National Summer Learning Association and New York State director at the National Center on Time and Learning. Jeff also served as a political appointee of Governor Edward Rendell at the Pennsylvania Department of Education and as legislative associate for the Council of Chief State School Officers in Washington, D.C.

Jeff moved back to his hometown of Rochester in 2011 and lives with his wife, two children, and two dogs. He is active in the community and has been a member of the Democrat and Chronicle Board of Contributors, Mayor’s Early Learning Council, the Greater Rochester Summer Learning Association, and the Harvard-Radcliffe Club of Rochester. Jeff earned an Ed.M from Harvard University and a B.A. with teaching certification from Allegheny College.

Favorite Sports Team

Buffalo Bills. I’m a lifelong fan and season ticket holder anxiously awaiting our first Super Bowl championship. Go Bills!

Proudest Moment

Creating the New Vision for Summer School initiative, which has helped transform summer school in over 50 school districts across the nation.

Why are you passionate about working at EdTrust-New York?

Too often, schools underestimate the ability of children of color or those living in poverty. I’ve been a long-time admirer of EdTrust for their focus on equity and am excited to help show that all students can succeed with the right support.