Originally from Wisconsin, Smith earned his bachelor's degree in history with a minor in Gender and Ethnic Studies from the University of Wisconsin before completing a master's degree in Holocaust and Genocide Studies with a minor in Judaic Studies from the University of Pennsylvania. His academic interests were inspired by an unexpected chapter in his professional life. "Before I was a teacher, I was a police officer in Wisconsin," Smith said. "That job put me face to face with questions about authority, order, and how ordinary people behave inside a system. It's what led me to study how ordinary citizens become functionaries of a genocidal regime. That question has shaped almost everything I've taught since."

Although education is now his passion, Smith admits it wasn't always the plan. "I originally thought I would be an international rugby player," he said with a smile. "After a career-ending injury, I went back to my favorite class in high school, history."

Now entering his second yearat Vermont Academy, Smith has quickly become one of the school's most involved faculty members. In addition to teaching Humanities and serving as Director of Summer Operations, where he coordinates Vermont Academy's summer programs, he is also a dorm parent, coaches Strength and Conditioning during the fall season, and keeps the clock for Vermont Academy's hockey teams throughout the winter. Students have also seen him on stage, where he has participated in multiple school theater productions, embracing yet another opportunity to engage with campus life.

For Smith, being part of a boarding school means much more than teaching classes. "I love the students and being able to give them a deeper understanding of education," he said. His decision to join Vermont Academy was motivated by both family and community. "We wanted to be closer to my in-laws in Connecticut, and I was excited about working at a coeducational school," Smith explained. "Before coming to VA, I had only taught at all female boarding schools."

Inside the classroom, Smith encourages students to challenge assumptions, ask questions, and examine multiple perspectives. "I hope students learn how to see all sides of a story," he said. "I want them to think for themselves and become more intellectually inclined to think deeper." His previous career continues to influence his teaching philosophy. "In fields where you're expected to follow orders, education gives you an opportunity to help students make their own choices," he said. "That's one of the most rewarding parts of teaching."

Students quickly discover that Smith's classroom has a personality all its own. "It's random," he said. "I wear the same clothes to class every day to create a sense of consistency, but after that, anything can happen." That unpredictability is balanced by the consistency of his presence across campus. Whether he's leading a discussion in the classroom, checking in with students in the dorm, coaching in the fitness center, supporting the hockey program, directing summer initiatives, or stepping into the spotlight during a school play, Smith embraces every opportunity to build relationships with students.

Zach believes those everyday interactions are what make boarding school education unique. "The mentoring in the classroom, on the field, and in the dorm creates special memories for these students," he said. When asked about the role teachers play at Vermont Academy, his answer was immediate. "Most important," Smith said. "Without teachers, there is no VA."

Outside of school, Smith enjoys spending time with his wife, Jennifer, their daughter, Ryndi, and their three dogs, Bella, Echo, and Parv. Whether they're taking walks, playing board games, or attending outdoor concerts, family time is a priority. Students may also be surprised to learn that their history teacher is a fan of EDM house music.

For new students joining the Vermont Academy community, Smith offers simple but meaningful advice: "Be yourself, stay true to who you are, and find yourself if you can." When asked which of Vermont Academy's pillars resonates with him most, Smith didn't hesitate. "Ingenuity," he said. "It's in everything. You just need to look for it."

From teaching history through thoughtful inquiry to mentoring students well beyond the classroom, Zach Smith exemplifies the spirit of Vermont Academy. His willingness to wear any and all hats, and occasionally a costume for the stage, reflects his commitment to creating meaningful experiences for students every day. In the classroom, the dorm, the theater, the fitness center, or on the sidelines, Smith is helping shape a community where students are encouraged and given the room to become.