Dr. A. Katrise Perera became the Superintendent of Schools for the Lancaster Independent School District in Lancaster, Texas, in June 2021. In her role, she has actively engaged with stakeholders, resulting in a swift, positive impact on students, staff, and the Lancaster ISD community.

As the former Superintendent of Schools for the Okemos Public Schools and the Muskegon Heights Public School Academy System, Dr. Zachery-Ross led many successful initiatives that resulted in positive outcomes. As a result of her intentional and focused work, these districts experienced positive growth in the following areas: development of the district’s profile, reduction in student suspensions and expulsions, increased student and staff attendance, decrease in the dropout rate, and an increase in the graduation rate for high school students. Dr. Zachery-Ross also worked at Van Dyke Public Schools in Warren, where she was the first African American administrator. She served with distinction as an Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, Elementary School Principal, Middle School Principal, School Psychologist, and Teacher Consultant. In addition, she began her career as an Elementary School Teacher and School Psychologist for the Detroit Public Schools district.

D. Zachery-Ross attended Grand Valley State University, receiving a Bachelor’s Degree with a Special Education/Psychology major in 1995. She earned her Masters of Arts in Education Psychology from Wayne State University in 1999, and in 2021 she received an Educational Doctorate Degree in Educational Leadership from Michigan State University. Dr. Zachery-Ross is a prominent speaker, educational consultant, and professional developer facilitating professional learning throughout Michigan.