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Zacheriah Davis Sr.
Zacheriah Davis Sr. ran for election for an at-large seat of the St. Louis Public Schools Board of Education in Missouri. He lost in the general election on April 8, 2025.
Davis completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. Click here to read the survey answers.
Biography
Zacheriah Davis Sr. was born in Houston, Texas. He earned a bachelor's degree from Potters Bible College in 2004. His career experience includes working as an educator, harm reductionist, social worker, program director, and policy analyst.[1]
Elections
2025
See also: St. Louis Public Schools, Missouri, elections (2025)
General election
General election for St. Louis Public Schools Board of Education (3 seats)
The following candidates ran in the general election for St. Louis Public Schools Board of Education on April 8, 2025.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ |  | Brian Marston (Nonpartisan) | 17.8 | 20,763 |
| ✔ | Karen Collins-Adams (Nonpartisan) | 17.3 | 20,221 | |
| ✔ |  | Allisa Foster (Nonpartisan)  | 13.8 | 16,105 |
| Antionette Cousins (Nonpartisan) | 10.6 | 12,373 | ||
| Teresa Powers (Nonpartisan) | 7.7 | 8,980 | ||
| Krystal Barnett (Nonpartisan) | 7.6 | 8,850 | ||
 | Zacheriah Davis Sr. (Nonpartisan) | 5.9 | 6,895 | |
| Andre Walker (Nonpartisan) | 4.7 | 5,451 | ||
| William Monroe Jr. (Nonpartisan) | 4.5 | 5,222 | ||
 | David Jackson (Nonpartisan) | 4.2 | 4,884 | |
| Tavon Brooks (Nonpartisan) | 3.6 | 4,163 | ||
| Robert Mason II (Nonpartisan) | 2.3 | 2,707 | ||
| Total votes: 116,614 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
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Endorsements
Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Davis in this election.
Campaign themes
2025
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Zacheriah Davis Sr. completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Davis' responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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- Raise Student outcomes through target efforts to raise literacy rates in SLPS— “Ensuring our students succeed starts with a strong foundation in literacy. In SLPS, we must take targeted, data-driven action to raise reading levels, equipping every child with the tools to thrive academically and beyond. By investing in literacy, we’re investing in brighter futures, stronger communities, and a school system that truly puts students first—always!”
- Equity in Education— “Equity in education means ensuring every SLPS student has access to the resources, support, and opportunities they need to succeed—no exceptions. We must allocate funding and tools where they are needed most, closing gaps and empowering every child to reach their full potential. When we invest equitably, we uplift our entire community and create a future where all students thrive.”
- A Living Wage for Teachers/ Educators— “Great schools start with great teachers. To retain and attract top talent in SLPS, we must prioritize competitive pay, professional development, and a culture that values and supports educators. When we invest in our teachers, we invest in the future of our students—ensuring stability, excellence, and a learning environment where every child can succeed.”
I strive to follow their example by being a bold advocate for change, a servant leader who listens to the people, and a bridge-builder across communities. Like them, I believe in nonviolent resistance, the power of education to transform lives, and the responsibility to lift as we climb. Their legacies remind me that leadership is not about titles—it’s about impact, integrity, and putting the needs of others first.
• Book: The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander – A deep look at systemic injustice and the need for policy reform, especially in education and criminal justice.
• Essay: The Purpose of Education by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. – A powerful reflection on the role of education in developing both intelligence and character.
• Film: Waiting for “Superman” – A documentary on public education, highlighting systemic challenges and the urgent need for reform.
Additionally, my lived experience as a parent, teacher, and social justice leader gives me a unique perspective on education policy and community engagement. I am persistent in advocating for what is right, transparent in decision-making, and unwavering in my belief that every child deserves a quality education. My leadership is rooted in accountability, accessibility, and the principle of putting students first—always.
Beyond education, I hope my work inspires future generations to lead with integrity, serve with compassion, and stand boldly for justice. Whether in the classroom, the pulpit, or the community, my goal has always been to uplift others, break down barriers, and create pathways for success. If my efforts lead to better schools, stronger communities, and more empowered young people, then I will have fulfilled my purpose.
Beyond personal loss, I’ve also faced the challenges of balancing multiple leadership roles—pastor, educator, father, and advocate—while ensuring that my work remains centered on service. Despite these struggles, I’ve learned that hardship refines purpose. My experiences fuel my passion for equity, education, and justice, pushing me to make meaningful change so that no other family has to endure the same kind of loss.
1. Culturally Responsive Education – I will advocate for curriculum and teaching practices that reflect the diverse backgrounds of our students, ensuring they see themselves in their education and feel empowered to succeed.
2. Teacher & Staff Support – Having spent years in the classroom, I know that educators thrive when they have the tools and support they need. I will push for competitive pay, professional development, and mental health resources to retain and uplift our teachers and staff.
3. Community & Family Engagement – Strong schools are built through partnerships. I will work to strengthen collaboration between families, faith-based organizations, and local businesses to ensure every child has access to resources beyond the classroom.
4. Student-Centered Policies – As someone who has fought for social justice and youth empowerment, I will push for policies that prioritize student success, equitable funding, and targeted interventions, particularly in literacy, college readiness, and vocational training.
5. Safe & Inclusive Schools – Every child and educator should feel safe, valued, and supported. I will advocate for anti-bullying programs, mental health resources, and trauma-informed care to address the social-emotional needs of our students.
How I Will Build Relationships:
• Open Dialogue & Accessibility – I will regularly attend community meetings, parent forums, and neighborhood association gatherings to ensure the community’s voice shapes SLPS policies.
• Faith & Civic Partnerships – I will work closely with churches, interfaith coalitions, and local nonprofits to provide mentorship programs, after-school support, and family engagement initiatives.
• Business & Workforce Development Collaboration – I will partner with local businesses, unions, and trade organizations to create more career pathways, internships, and workforce readiness programs for students.
• Teacher & Staff Engagement – I will ensure educators and support staff have direct input in decision-making, advocating for competitive pay, resources, and professional development opportunities.
• Student-Centered Advocacy – I will meet regularly with student leaders, youth organizations, and advocacy groups to listen, learn, and act on their needs.
Key Groups & Stakeholders I Will Engage:
1. Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) & School Advisory Boards
2. Clergy & Faith-Based Organizations (e.g., Clergy United for Peace, Inc.)
3. Community-Based Nonprofits (e.g., CityHope-St. Louis, LIMBright Scholarship Foundation)
4. Local Business Leaders & Trade Organizations
5. Labor Unions & Educator Associations (e.g., American Federation of Teachers, local teacher unions)
6. Youth Advocacy & Social Justice Groups
7. St. Louis City Government & Civic Leaders
To measure effective teaching, I will advocate for a balanced approach that includes student progress data, classroom observations, and direct feedback from students, parents, and colleagues. Standardized test scores alone do not define great teaching; we must also assess student engagement, growth in literacy and critical thinking, and classroom culture. To support advanced teaching approaches, I will push for professional development in innovative instructional strategies, mentorship programs, and investment in classroom technology. By providing teachers with the resources, training, and autonomy to implement new methods, we ensure that students receive the highest quality education possible.
Beyond career readiness, I would also advocate for financial literacy, leadership development, and social-emotional learning programs to equip students with life skills beyond the classroom. Expanding arts, music, and cultural education is just as critical to fostering creativity and personal expression. If given the opportunity, I would push for more community-based learning initiatives, where students can intern, apprentice, and work with local businesses and organizations to gain hands-on experience. Education should not be one-size-fits-all—we must innovate and personalize learning so every SLPS student can thrive.
Beyond government funding, I will work to strengthen partnerships with local businesses, nonprofit organizations, and philanthropic groups to secure additional funding for STEM programs, arts education, career training, and mental health resources. Grant-writing initiatives and community-driven fundraising efforts can also provide targeted support for underfunded schools. Above all, I will push for transparency and accountability in school spending, ensuring every dollar is invested where it will make the most impact—in the success of our students.
1. Prevention Through Mental Health & Support Services – Schools must invest in counselors, social workers, and trauma-informed care to address conflicts and emotional challenges before they escalate.
2. Strong Community & School Partnerships – I will advocate for partnerships with local law enforcement, mental health professionals, and community organizations to create holistic safety strategies that focus on intervention rather than punitive discipline.
3. Anti-Bullying & Conflict Resolution Programs – Schools need strong anti-bullying policies, peer mediation programs, and restorative justice practices to foster a culture of respect and accountability.
4. Improved Security Measures Without Over-Policing – I will push for smart security investments, such as better entry protocols, security staff trained in de-escalation, and emergency preparedness plans, while ensuring that students—especially students of color—are not over-policed or criminalized.
Beyond staffing, I will push for school-wide wellness initiatives, peer support programs, and partnerships with community-based mental health organizations to provide wraparound services for students and staff. Faculty and staff must have access to mental health resources, professional development on self-care, and policies that prevent burnout, such as manageable workloads and strong administrative support. By fostering a culture of care, open dialogue, and proactive mental health initiatives, we can create a school system where students and educators alike feel supported, valued, and equipped to thrive.
Policies to Change:
1. Resource Allocation Reform – I would advocate for a more transparent and needs-based funding model to ensure schools serving historically underserved students receive equitable resources.
2. Discipline & Restorative Justice – SLPS must move away from harsh, exclusionary discipline policies that disproportionately impact Black and brown students. I would push for expanded restorative justice programs that focus on conflict resolution, mentoring, and support rather than punitive measures.
3. Teacher Pay & Retention – SLPS must increase teacher salaries and professional development opportunities to attract and retain high-quality educators, particularly in critical subjects like literacy and STEM.
New Policies to Implement:
1. Stronger Literacy & Early Intervention Programs – I would push for district-wide initiatives focused on early literacy, tutoring, and intervention services to address learning gaps.
2. Expanded Career & Technical Education (CTE) – I would support apprenticeships, vocational training, and partnerships with businesses to prepare students for both college and the workforce.
3. Mental Health & Wellness Programs – Every SLPS school should have access to counselors, social workers, and mental health resources for students and staff.
4. Parent & Community Engagement – I would implement regular listening sessions, a parent advisory council, and stronger school-community partnerships to ensure families have a voice in decision-making.
In this environment, literacy is a priority, and students receive the individualized support they need—whether through tutoring, mentorship, or social-emotional resources. Schools must also be trauma-informed and equipped with counselors, mental health professionals, and restorative justice programs to support students beyond academics.
However, moving forward, I would advocate for stronger long-term planning to handle future crises. This includes expanding digital infrastructure to ensure every student has reliable internet and devices, enhancing mental health resources to address the lasting impact of trauma, and improving communication between schools, parents, and the community for clearer decision-making. Investing in teacher training for online and hybrid learning models will also help ensure smoother transitions if needed in the future. While the district faced many obstacles, we must learn from this experience to build a more resilient, adaptable education system.
How I Will Build Relationships with Parents:
1. Regular Parent Forums & Listening Sessions – I will host monthly town halls, school visits, and listening sessions across the district to ensure parents have direct access to decision-makers.
2. Strengthening Parent-Teacher Communication – I will advocate for better tools and systems that improve how parents receive updates on their child’s academic progress, school policies, and available resources.
3. Creating a Parent Advisory Council – I will establish a diverse advisory group of parents from different schools to collaborate on policies, share concerns, and advocate for student success.
4. Expanding Family Support & Resources – I will work with faith-based groups, community organizations, and social services to provide parent workshops, literacy programs, and mental health resources for families in need.
5. Building Trust & Accountability – I will ensure parents have a real seat at the table when major decisions are made, increasing transparency in budgeting, curriculum, and school policies.
The Goal:
Beyond compensation, creating a positive school culture is key to retention. Educators need administrative support, mental health resources, and a voice in decision-making. I will advocate for anti-burnout initiatives, smaller class sizes, and stronger community engagement so that educators feel valued and supported. Recruiting and retaining the best talent starts with treating teachers and staff as the essential professionals they are.
Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.
See also
2025 Elections
External links
Footnotes
- ↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on March 4, 2025
