Zachery Ward, Ed.S. is an award-winning educator that is on fire for literacy and humanities instruction. He has a heart for instructional technology, children's literacy development, and positive behavior supports. He has accomplished teaching experience as a third-grade teacher, special education co-teacher, and RTI/MTSS Coordinator. Zachery has also taught at the collegiate level where he taught courses in children’s literacy, school diversity, and educational research.

Zachery's educational practices are rooted in love, and he believes that educators must address the heart before the brain. He values building relationships with his students and uses their interests and needs when making decisions. Zachery Ward is a three-time alumnus of Georgia Southwestern State University, having earned a bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, a master's degree in Elementary Education, and a specialist degree in Elementary Education. He also earned his Tier-1 Educational Leadership certification from the University of West Georgia. Zachery is currently a doctoral student and is researching how the five senses influence literacy development.

In 2016, Zachery was named a National Student Teaching Fellow by the Network of National Teachers of the Year. In 2017, he was awarded Distinguished Chapter Officer by Kappa Delta Pi, an international honor society for education. Most recently, Zachery was awarded the 2021 Commitment to Innovation Award given by The Georgia Department of Education and Georgia Public Broadcasting.

Zachery is a South Georgia native and has one son named, Cannon. Zachery and his partner recently relocated to the Grant Park area where they enjoy visiting the park with their two dogs.

Zachery defines himself as a life-long learner and unconventionalist who seeks opportunities to make learning fun and meaningful. He is excited about serving the Virginia-Highland community and looks forward to building relationships with the students and families at VHE.