Aaron Zalis, EdD, served the Rolla Public School District for 27 years, retiring as superintendent in 2020. He currently serves as director of the South Central Regional Professional Development Center at Missouri S&T in Rolla. His career in education spans more than four decades.
He holds a Doctor of Education degree in educational leadership and administration from Saint Louis University, an Education Specialist degree in superintendency from Northwest Missouri State University, Master of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees from Truman State University, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in commercial art and design from Culver-Stockton College.
Educational Associations
- President of the Missouri Association of School Administrators (MASA)
- Trustee for the State Public School Retirement Systems of Missouri (PSRS/PEERS), serving as chairman from 2008–2020
- President of South-Central MASA for two terms
- Member of the Missouri Association of School Business Officials (MoASBO)
Awards
- Outstanding Emeritus Educator in Educational Leadership, MASA (2021)
- MASA Pearce Award for Distinguished Leadership (2017)
- State Administrator of the Year, Missouri School Public Relations Association (2017)
- Education Excellence Hall of Fame, Culver-Stockton College (2013)
Community Service
- Member of the City of Rolla Comprehensive Planning Advisory Committee
- Member of the Rolla Regional Economic Commission
- Ex officio member of the Rolla Chamber of Commerce and Chamber Ambassadors
- Active participant in community organizations, including the Kiwanis Club
He and his wife, Liz, have called Rolla home for more than 30 years.
“I am honored to serve as an advisory member on the Board of Trustees,” said Zalis. “This community means a great deal to us, and giving back by serving is a tangible way to demonstrate that appreciation.”