Zionsville Community Schools
ISSUE 2
WINTER 2023
Celebrating a legacy of leadership Preparing to name a new Zionsville Community High School principal
After 38 years as a teacher, coach, and school administrator, Zionsville Community High School (ZCHS) Principal Tim East will retire at the end of the school year and pass the baton to a new high school principal. Mr. East first joined Zionsville Community Schools in 1999 in what he identifies as his most important role, parent of two ZCS students/graduates. He joined the team professionally as principal of Eagle Elementary in 2002. His tenure also included four and a half years as principal of Zionsville West Middle School before being named the ZCHS principal for the 2010-11 school year. Mr. East said, “The Zionsville Community has been a special place for our family and will always be the place we call home.” His wife, Jenni East, was the first to join the ZCS family in 2000 as a teacher’s aide at Eagle Elementary, and she will also retire from her teaching position at Zionsville Middle School at the end
of this school year. Over the past 23 years, the Easts have had the honor of serving nearly every family with school aged children in our community. East said, “Jenni and I feel very blessed that we have been able to pour into the lives of others in the community that has been so instrumental in shaping the lives of our own now adult children.” With their children and grandson in the area, the Easts plan to remain in Zionsville after retirement. Tim and Jenni are looking forward to spending more time with their grandson (soon to be grandsons) and traveling in retirement. However, for the next eight months, their continued focus is on their mission to be the best educators they can be for our students and community. “Our work is very cyclical in nature and as a reflective leader, my focus is on ensuring ZCHS is in a great place for next year and the years to follow," East said. “At this point, it is still business
as usual, and I am doing everything possible to support the next principal to continue ZCHS’s legacy of excellence for our students.” Beginning this month, Dr. Coffman will begin the process of recruiting the next ZCHS principal. Superintendent Coffman said, “One of the most critical things we do is the recruitment and selection of outstanding teachers
and school leaders. The high school principalship is a unique role in our organization, and we will be using a process inclusive of stakeholder voices to select the best person to be the next leader of Zionsville Community High School.”
As we search for a new high school principal, anyone interested in contributing feedback about what they believe to be critical for the future of ZCHS is encouraged to submit the form via the QR code by December 31, 2023.
Seventh annual district Do Days set for March Mark your calendars for the seventh annual ZCS Do Days taking place from March 7th to March 9th, 2024. Students and staff district-wide will be actively engaged in various service projects. We hope you will consider the projects your family would like to be a part of as we all come together to give back to our community. Help us extend the invitation to organizations in need of support during these dates. Those interested can contact Kelly Antcliff at kantcliff@zcs.k12.in.us.
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WINTER 2023
Eagle Ambassador Academy off to a great start
State of the Schools 2023 Leaders in Zionsville Community Schools showcase district highlights during the State of the Schools event held at the Zionsville Town Hall. Zionsville Community
Thank you to everyone who gathered at Zionsville Town Hall for this year’s State of the Schools address. We appreciate our event sponsors whose support makes this annual event possible. This year's address included updates on curriculum, operations, finance, and safety, among other important topics. It also provided an opportunity to publicly express our gratitude to our school community partners who play a role in the success of ZCS. Our tradition of academic excellence is possible because of the partnerships we have with families and the community. The current state of our schools is strong, and our focus remains on achieving excellence as a growing school corporation.
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In addition to the new kindergarten class, we welcomed more than 600 new students into our schools. Establishing connections with these new students and their families is important, as is supporting and warmly welcoming new staff members who play a vital role in facilitating learning for all ZCS students. Fifty-seven new teachers joined the district for the 2023-2024 school year, a testament to the continuous growth and strength of our educational community. With gratitude, Dr. Rebecca Coffman Superintendent of Schools
Schools Everyone belongs here.
8k+
499 teachers
students
60
9
native languages spoken
schools
65k+
98.4%
dollars raised for charities by members of the Class of 2023
graduation rate
2,500+ miles driven by school buses each day
3,200+ lunches served each day
The inaugural cohort of more than 50 community members attended the first session of the Eagle Ambassador Academy designed to give those interested an opportunity to learn about the inner workings of Zionsville Community Schools. In the first session, ZCS Superintendent Dr. Rebecca Coffman provided an introduction and brief overview of the program before all members boarded a school bus for a tour of the school district. School safety was the focus of the second session, held in October. Members will meet once a month throughout the school year for an in-depth look at Zionsville Community Schools. Thank you to all who signed up for the academy. Those interested in participating in a future cohort should watch for applications that will be available at the start of the next school year.
WINTER 2023
Congratulations Five students from Zionsville Community High School named finalists for the Boone County Lilly Endowment Scholarship Zionsville Community High School proudly announces the five students who were named finalists for the 2024 Boone County Lilly Endowment Scholarship. These five outstanding individuals stand among a group of eight finalists from across the county, all vying for the distinction of becoming one of the two recipients of a full-tuition scholarship to any Indiana college. Finalists are not only academically accomplished but also deeply committed to making meaningful contributions to their communities. As of press time, scholarship recipients have not been announced.
More than 200 students inducted into the ZCHS National Honor Society this year and 11 students named National Merit Semifinalists
Student affiliation is important Sports, arts, clubs...connection is key for students Student affiliation thrives through the many clubs and activities offered in Zionsville Community Schools. Our district-wide club and activity fairs serve as a platform for students to explore and engage with others who share the same interests. This year, there were more than 80 clubs and organizations represented and more than 4,200 student registrations as a result of the club and activity fairs. Students actively participate in these offerings, with an average involvement of 1.8 activities per student. This rich affiliation not only fosters a sense of belonging and community but also provides many opportunities for students to develop their skills, interests and passions in a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone belongs.
Middle school teacher flies with Blue Angels
Zionsville Middle School teacher Brittany Moon recently realized a lifelong dream when she was chosen to fly with the Blue Angels, a nomination that came from her peers. Having grown up surrounded by aviation and holding a pilot's license, Moon said, "I wanted to do this when I was 10." Prior to her flight, Moon engaged with her ZMS students through a video call, discussing her preparations for the upcoming flight. The excitement among the students was evident as they eagerly connected with their teacher, making them feel part of her dream-turned reality. In a heartfelt message to her students, Brittany conveyed a simple yet powerful sentiment: Never stop dreaming.
Zionsville Community High School recognized in the top 1.5% nationally Students, parents, teachers, and community members all play a role in this high level of achievement. While we do not set our school goals to align with the criteria for recognition in national publications, it is nice that ZCS is recognized for strong educational programs that support our students in accessing a rigorous curriculum. This year U.S. News and World Report ranked ZCHS in the Top 1.5% of schools nationally. Specifically, ZCHS has maintained a position near the top of the list at #267 nationally*, #5 in Indiana, and #2 in the Indianapolis Metro Area. Most importantly, this ranking validates our work to open doors for our students to continue their education after high school. This recognition is only possible because of our committed students, supportive parents, and a community that values public education that encourages our students to reach their full academic potential. *There are 25,000 high schools
nationally and 17,680 included in these rankings.
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WINTER 2023
Celebrating student experiences Academics, arts, sports, school events...there are many defining moments
Transportation News ZCS meets new emissions standards ahead of schedule REPRINT FROM SCHOOL TRANSPORTATION NEWS OCTOBER 11, 2023 ZCS is now operating 33 new propane school buses that are 90% cleaner than the current Environmental Protection Agency’s standard for nitrogen oxides. To keep up with district growth, ZCS increased bus routes using an alternative fuel that it knows and trusts: propane autogas. “We love operating propane buses,” says ZCS Transportation Manager Amy Eaton. “They produce less pollution, which is great for our students. They’re much quieter, which benefits the drivers. And they provide fuel savings, which is great for the school.” ZCS joins about 150 school
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districts across the country that began the 2023-24 school year with brand-new Blue Bird propane buses powered by ROUSH CleanTech’s innovative propane technology - an affordable, sustainable alternative fuel that allows the district to easily meet upcoming emissions regulations. “Propane provides a simple solution to complex problems,” says Todd Mouw, executive vice president at ROUSH CleanTech. “Propane is the common-sense approach. It works, and it will do the job you need it to do while meeting regulations through 2027.” ZCS began adopting propane autogas in 2020, with an initial purchase of 21 propane buses from MacAllister Transportation. The initiative to adopt a cleaner fuel has
been so successful that ZCS now operates 54 propane school buses, which is 65% of its fleet and 73% of its total daily routes. Propane vehicles reduce smog-producing emissions, eliminate particulate matter and lower nitrogen oxides by 95% compared with diesel. It is the leading alternative fuel for school buses in the United States. Over the last three years, feedback about propane buses has been positive. “Once the drivers get behind the wheel, they love them,” says Eaton. “My mechanics love them, too.” “The performance of a propane bus is very similar to a diesel bus in relation to speed and acceleration,” Eaton continues. “And there are zero issues starting up in cold weather.”
ZCS partnered with Co Alliance to install onsite propane fueling stations and is currently paying $1.59 per gallon of propane compared to $3.12 per gallon of diesel. The savings and ability to negotiate low pricing help manage the budget during a time of rapid district growth.
WINTER 2023
ZCHS students support senior citizens in the digital age Student-led technology help desk brings generations together
The ZCHS Student Technology Team worked alongside some of our Senior VIP members who took advantage of the student-run technology help desk. We will continue to create opportunities for the senior citizens in our community to build connections with our students. If you or someone you know is a senior citizen over the age of 65, and a resident of Eagle or Union Township, you are invited to join the Senior VIP program that offers free admission to hundreds of school events including plays, concerts and
Growing up digital: Artificial Intelligence in education In October, ZCS Chief Innovation Officer Dan Layton and Digital Coach Carly Havlik presented a one-hour session for families and community members exploring Artificial Intelligence (AI). This presentation took a deeper look into how ZCS is approaching AI in education. ZCS has formed curriculum and technology teams for exploring the best ways to manage rapid and exciting advancements in computing. Havlik talked about working with sophomore students to gain feedback on their perspectives regarding AI. She said she learned, through a series of discussions, that young people share very similar views with teachers and adults. We continue to explore best practices in education as it relates to the use of technology. This technology is constantly evolving, and we have a team dedicated to helping our students learn to use AI responsibly.
sporting events. There are also speeches, carnivals and other fun opportunities for you to engage, enjoy, and/or learn. To participate, call Lynn Kissel-Brown at 317-873-2858, ext. 11230.
Strong in Every Way Speaker Series
If you missed the presentation on the Science of Reading by Jamey Peavler, you can access resources and a recorded presentation at this QR code.
If you missed the presentation on Artificial Intelligence in Education, you can access the recorded presentation here.
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WINTER 2023
ZEF Fall Classroom Grants help fuel innovative learning in ZCS Thank you to all Zionsville Education Foundation supporters The Zionsville Education Foundation (ZEF) surprised ZCS 2023 Fall Classroom Grant recipients across the district with news that their projects were being funded. ZEF Classroom Grants enrich ZCS student learning experiences. These ZEF Classroom Grants serve as a testament to the commitment of ZEF and its generous donors, further enriching the educational experience for ZCS students. The collective efforts and generosity of ZEF and its community of supporters make a profound impact on the growth and learning opportunities for ZCS students. Thank you to the Zionsville Education Foundation and all of the ZEF donors who make ZEF Classroom Grants possible.
ZEF Fun Fact: Did you know that since 2010, ZEF has awarded more than $100,000 for K-12 robotics-related grants? 6
Consider donating to the ZEF Fund
Thank you to all who attended ZEF Bash
Consider contributing to the ZEF Fund anytime during the year. The ZEF Fund supports its mission to provide funds that promote academic excellence in our schools. Your gift enables future grants for teachers, students and schools, making innovative projects and unique learning experiences for students come to life across the district.
Thank you to all those who joined us at ZEF Bash on November 4, 2023, to support our schools. An evening filled with dinner, dance, a lively silent auction, and the much-anticipated 'Cap off the Night' made it a memorable community gathering.
WINTER 2023
A focus on safety Building a heart safe school
The safety and well-being of our students and staff is a top priority. We ensure the highest standards of preparedness and care on all our school campuses. One aspect of our safety commitment is the availability of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in multiple locations in every school. These life-saving devices are strategically placed throughout our campuses, and our staff are trained to be ready to provide immediate assistance in the event of a cardiac emergency. We are prepared to respond swiftly and effectively in any situation that may require life-saving intervention. As part of the school district’s dedication to safety, teachers are certified, and we encourage training and certification for our entire
The STOPit Reporting Line is available and monitored 24-hours a day, seven days a week. We encourage families and community members to embrace the "see something, say something" philosophy. This platform invites anyone who believes a situation warrants investigation, that contributes to the safety and security of our staff and students, to use this anonymous means of reporting.
school community. By equipping ourselves with these life-saving techniques, we are better prepared in our emergency response. Together, we are fostering a heart-safe school environment where we all take responsibility for the safety and well-being of those around us. Certification is offered through ZCS Eagle Recreation and Enrichment once a month throughout the year. We encourage all in our school and community to consider enrolling in a class.
Thank you to our partners at Star Bank for supporting students and families in Zionsville Community Schools.
Ascension Medical Group St. Vincent Zionsville West Primary Care 51 N. Ford Road Zionsville, IN 4607 t 317-973-3333
Ascension Medical Group St. Vincent Zionsville West Primary Care Healthcare services close to Zionsville
Our primary care team takes the time to get to know you and your family and to learn about your family’s health history.
51 N. Ford Road Zionsville, IN 4607 t 317-973-3333
We deliver a wide range of personalized services, including health physicals, screening tests and treatments for existing health conditions. We’re here for your everyday healthcare needs, including: • Annual, school and sports physicals • Newborn and child well-checks; immunizations
Healthcare services close to Zionsville
Play On Zionsville administers the Zionsville Band and Orchestra Musical Instrument Endowment, which provides funds to purchase instruments for the high school bands and orchestras. Play On Zionsville has helped with other projects benefiting instrumental music students in our middle schools. Their broad purpose is "Supporting Instrumental Music in the Zionsville Community." Play On Zionsville supports the endowment fund and other projects through donations from the community and fundraising events. You can help by visiting their website
and making a donation directly. Supporters of the arts understand that music programs are an essential part of the educational system. Numerous studies confirm the link between music study and academic success.
The Endowment is a component fund of the Community Foundation of Boone County.
• Healthcare for teenagers
• Preventive heart care (high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat) Our primary care team takes the time to get to know you and your family and to learn about your family’s health history. • Senior health We deliver a wide range of personalized services, including health physicals, screening tests and treatments for existing • Women GYN exams (Pap tests and family planning) health conditions. We’re here for your everyday healthcare needs, including: • Worker’s health exams (DOT/CDL); urgent care • Annual, school and sports physicals • Newborn and child well-checks; immunizations • Healthcare for teenagers
Zionsville area doctors
As your care team, we are committed to delivering a personalized, compassionate healthcare experience.
• Preventive heart care (high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat) • Senior health • Women GYN exams (Pap tests and family planning) • Worker’s health exams (DOT/CDL); urgent care
Zionsville area doctors
Melissa Arthur, NP Michael Gallagher, MD As your care team, we are committed to delivering a personalized, compassionate healthcare experience. Family medicine Family medicine
Melissa Arthur,to NP support Michael Gallagher, MD Yes, I want Family medicine Family medicine music in our schools. Donate using QR code above or VENMO @playonzionsville. Katherine Pedersen, MD
Pediatricsyou. Thank
Beata Samuel, MD Pediatrics
Meenu Goel, MD OB/GYN
Chandra Ostrognail, MD Family medicine
Chandra Ostrognail, MD Meenu Goel, MD Beata Samuel, MD Katherine Pedersen, MD Family medicine OB/GYN Pediatrics Pediatrics
Accepting new patients t 317-973-3333 Ascension St. Vincent ascension.org © Ascension 2023. All rights reserved.
Accepting new patients t 317-973-3333 Ascension St. Vincent ascension.org © Ascension 2023. All rights reserved.
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WINTER 2023
Pleasant View Elementary School STEAM/ Wellness Night
This year's EagleFest was one of the most highly attended to date
The annual EagleFest community celebration, organized by the Zionsville Athletic Booster Club, was one of the largest school community events to date. Attendees enjoyed an outdoor festival at Jennings Field before heading over to the first home football game of the season. The Eagles won their first season game against Pike High School.
Pleasant View Elementary School held a STEAM/Wellness event for students and families. The event brought the school community together to celebrate science, technology, art, music, math and wellness.
ZCS students honor veterans in school ceremonies ZCS students at every grade level participated in Veterans Day programs held across the district. These celebrations are a vital component of the curriculum and instill a sense of citizenship in our school community. Each year, ZCS sets aside this special time to encourage students to honor veterans and express their respect by taking a moment to pause and reflect on the sacrifices made by those who have served or are currently serving our country.
Artwork created by Carwen Jones, 8th grade student at Zionsville West Middle School.
ZCS Board of School Trustees
Mr. Mike Berg Board President
Mrs. Katie Aeschliman Board Vice President
Mrs. Jennifer Valentine Board Member
Dr. Jeff Papa Board Secretary
Dr. Christy Wessel-Powell Board Member
This newspaper is a community publication of Zionsville Community Schools that is written and designed in-house. Print and mailing costs are paid for using donation funds.
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