ZCS Newspaper Spring 2026

Zionsville Community Schools

SPRING 2026

Serving Together Annual ZCS Do-Days brings Zionsville Community Schools students, staff, families, and businesses together in service to our community Across Zionsville Community Schools, classrooms looked a little different during ZCS Do-Days.

Students packed hygiene kits, wrote letters of encouragement, cleaned community spaces, supported local nonprofits, and found countless ways to serve others. The work took place across Boone County.

It was all part of the eighth annual Do-Days, a ZCS tradition built on a simple powerful idea: learning does not only happen inside the classroom. Sometimes the most meaningful lessons happen when students learn the value of service.

What began in 2019 as a student-led effort at Zionsville Community High School has grown into a districtwide commitment to service. Each year, students and staff across every grade level find ways to give their time, energy, and creativity to support others.

Over the course of three days, students participated in service projects. Some students sorted donations or assembled care packages. Others wrote notes to veterans, created encouragement

cards for hospital patients, or helped clean local spaces. Many partnered with local organizations that support families throughout the county. Service is a powerful teacher.

Through Do-Days, students experience firsthand what it means to contribute to something larger than themselves. They see the impact of small acts of kindness. They discover that communities are strongest when people support one another.

Our community has long been known for its strong support of public education.

Do-Days reflects that same spirit of connection. Local organizations, families, and volunteers often join the effort, helping students understand how schools and communities work together.

For many students, Do-Days has become a highlight of the school year. It is a chance to step outside the routine of the classroom and experience the power of collective action.

Eight years in, the tradition continues to grow. And so does the impact.

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SPRING 2026

A Community that Believes in Our Schools

One of the great privileges of serving as superintendent of Zionsville Community Schools is the opportunity to share the story of our schools with others.

Recently, members of our team met with local realtors to talk about what makes our community such a special place to live, learn, and grow. The conversation kept returning to one thing: the strength of our schools and the incredible partnership we share with our community.

Families choose to call this community home for many reasons. They come for welcoming neighborhoods, strong civic pride, and a shared commitment to education. Our schools are stitched into the fabric of this community, and that connection is among our greatest strengths.

In this issue of our spring newspaper, you will see that spirit throughout our schools. Our cover story highlights the eighth annual Do-Days, when students across the district step beyond the classroom to serve others and give back to the community that supports them.

March brought Youth Art Month, a celebration of creativity and student expression. Throughout our schools and across the community, student artwork was on display in businesses, public spaces, and school buildings. It was a wonderful reminder that students are not only learners, but creators whose ideas and talents enrich our community.

Moments like these reflect what makes Zionsville Commu-

nity Schools so special. Our students are supported by dedicated educators, engaged families, and a community that believes deeply in the value of public education.

We recently created a highlight piece to share with those considering a move into our community. The story captures the full picture of our schools and the community that make ZCS unique. As a resident, you know these things, but I invite you to scan the QR code and be reminded of the great story we are writing together.

Thank you for your continued support of Zionsville Community Schools. It is truly a privilege to serve a community that values its schools so deeply.

Dr. Rebecca Coffman Superintendent Zionsville Community Schools

Inside Zionsville Community Schools Eagle Ambassador Academy participants experienced learning, leadership, and connection across the district during a one-day visit inside our schools.

Community members had the opportunity to step inside Zionsville Community Schools for a firsthand look at the inner workings that shape the district each day.

Participants explored academic and extracurricular programs and heard directly from school leaders about how the district works to support students both in and beyond the classroom.

From innovative learning environments to strong traditions in arts, athletics, and service, the experience provided a comprehensive look at how ZCS prepares students for the future.

The Eagle Ambassador Acad-

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emy was created to strengthen connections between the schools and the broader community. By opening the doors of our schools and sharing the story of ZCS, the program helps participants better understand the people, programs, and partnerships that make the district strong.

For many participants, the experience offered a deeper appreciation for the work happening in schools every day.

Zionsville Community Schools is fortunate to be part of a community that values education and takes an active interest in its schools. Programs like the Eagle Ambassador Academy help build that connection, ensuring that community members have opportunities to see firsthand the learning, dedication, and collaboration that take place across the district each day.

May in ZCS

Thank you to the nearly 85 interested participants who have joined us for the Eagle Ambassador Academy in recent years.

We appreciate you taking time to learn more about Zionsville Community Schools.

Endings. Beginnings. And everything in between.

May is a month of milestones in Zionsville Community Schools.

As we celebrate the graduation of the Class of 2026 at Zionsville Community High School Commencement on May 31, we also look ahead to the newest Eagles preparing to begin their journey in kindergarten this fall. Registration is open, and we can't wait to welcome our youngest learners!

One chapter closes. Another begins. The ZCS story continues.

SPRING 2026

Where Big Dreams Begin Kindergarten registration is now open in Zionsville Community Schools

Many ZCS graduates first walk through school doors as kindergarten students.

Kindergarten is where the school journey begins.

It is the place where many young learners discover the excitement of school for the first time. It is where curiosity is encouraged, friendships begin to form, and students take their first steps into a community of learning.

Zionsville Community Schools is now welcoming families to register the next class of kindergarten students for the upcoming school year.

Across the district’s elementary schools, kindergarten classrooms are vibrant spaces filled with exploration, creativity, and

discovery. Students build early literacy and math skills, learn how to work together, and begin developing the confidence that will carry them through their years in school.

Just as important, kindergarten is where students start to feel a sense of belonging. Teachers work closely with families to ensure that every child feels welcomed, supported, and excited to learn.

For many families, kindergarten marks a meaningful milestone. It is the beginning of a journey that will take students from their first days of school through graduation and beyond.

Zionsville Community Schools is proud to partner with families during these important early years and looks forward to welcoming the newest Eagles into classrooms across the district.

Families can learn more about kindergarten and complete the registration process by scanning the QR codes. The first day of school may still be months away, but the journey begins with registration.

And for the newest class of ZCS students, that journey starts with kindergarten.

Preparing for the Next Milestone “Webs of Support” helps fourth-grade families prepare for middle school While some ZCS families are preparing to begin their school journey in kindergarten, others are getting ready for an important transition.

Each spring, families of fourth-grade students are invited to participate in Webs of Support, a program designed to help parents prepare for the transition to middle school.

Led by ZCS Residency Specialist Lynn Kissel, the program brings families together to learn more about the middle school experience, ask questions, and build connections before the first day of fifth grade.

Parents talk about creating

supports to help students navigate this new stage of their school journey.

From the excitement of starting kindergarten to the anticipation of middle school, Zionsville Community Schools is committed to supporting students and families at every step along the way.

Programs like Webs of Support reflect that commitment, ensuring that students feel confident, prepared, and connected as they move forward in their learning journey.

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SPRING 2026

Looking Ahead to High School ZCHS Academic Transition Night helps eighth-grade families explore opportunities and plan their path

For eighth-grade students and their prepare for the next stage of their child’s families, the transition to high school is an academic journey. exciting step.

As students take this important step to During Zionsville Community High high school, Zionsville Community Schools School’s Academic Transition Night, remains committed to helping every learner families learned more about the wide range explore possibilities, build confidence, and of academic opportunities available to prepare for the future. students as they prepare to enter high school.

The evening provided an opportunity for families to explore course pathways, learn about graduation requirements, and hear directly from school leaders about the many ways ZCHS supports student success.

Teachers, counselors, administrators, and department leads were available to answer questions and guide students as they begin thinking about the academic choices that will shape their high school experience.

From advanced coursework and career exploration opportunities to arts, athletics and student activities, the evening highlighted the many ways students can discover their interests and pursue their goals at ZCHS. For many families, the event offered both information and reassurance as they

Fourth-grade students begin exploring the next chapter Across Zionsville Community Schools, fourth-grade students are beginning to look ahead to their next big step: middle school.

Throughout the spring, students participated in a step-up day to help them become familiar with middle school and prepare for the transition to fifth grade.

Students learned about what to expect in middle school, including new schedules, opportunities for extracurricular activities and music, and the many supports available to help them succeed.

These transition experiences are designed to build excitement and confidence while helping students feel comfortable with the changes that come with moving to a new school level.

By the time students arrive

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at their middle school in the fall, many already feel a sense of familiarity and anticipation for the opportunities ahead.

From elementary classrooms to middle school hallways and ultimately to high school graduation, Zionsville Community Schools works to ensure that every step of the journey is supported, connected, and filled with opportunity.

SPRING 2026

Where Music Meets Belonging Zionsville Middle School’s districtwide sensory-friendly concert creates a joyful space for every student to participate

Music filled Zionsville Middle School during the fourth annual sensory-friendly concert, an event designed so all students can experience the joy of music in a welcoming and flexible environment.

The concert created a space where students could enjoy live performances by student musicians, dance with friends, and explore instruments in a way that felt comfortable and inviting.

Students clapped and moved along to familiar songs while band members and staff welcomed them to try instruments and discover the sounds of the band.

The atmosphere was energetic, supportive, and full of smiles as students engaged with the music in their own way. Some danced while others listened closely or explored instruments with curiosity and excitement.

More than a concert, the event reflects Zionsville Community

Schools’ commitment to creating spaces where every student feels welcomed and valued. By designing experiences that allow all learners to participate together, students build confidence, friendships, and a shared appreciation for the arts.

Now in its fourth year, the sensory-friendly concert continues to grow, offering a reminder that when schools design experiences with every student in mind, music becomes something even more powerful.

It becomes a place where everyone belongs.

Confidence through Competition Students from Zionsville Community High School recently competed at the Business Professionals of America (BPA) State Leadership Competition, showcasing their skills in business, leadership, and communication.

Among the competitors was junior Garisha Kumari, whose journey in BPA reflects the confidence and growth that student organizations can inspire.

Through preparation and competition, students develop professional skills while discovering new strengths and interests.

BPA provides students with opportunities to apply classroom learning in authentic scenarios, from business presentations and finance challenges to technology and leadership events.

For many students, BPA becomes more than a competition. It becomes a place where they find their voice, build friendships, and prepare for the future.

On the Field with a Camera While athletes compete on the field, another group of students is capturing the action from behind the camera.

The ZCHS Sports Media program gives students the opportunity to document Eagle athletics through photography and video.

From football games under the lights to championship celebrations, students work on the sidelines to tell the story of ZCHS athletics.

Through the program, students develop skills in storytelling, production, and digital media while gaining real-world experience covering live events.

For many students, the sports media team becomes more than a class. It is a community where creativity, teamwork, and passion for storytelling come together.

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SPRING 2026

An Extraordinary Honor Two ZCHS seniors named Lilly Endowment Community Scholars, one of Indiana’s most prestigious scholarships Two Zionsville Community High School seniors, Caroline Cox and Anthony Thieu, have earned one of Indiana’s most prestigious academic honors, being named Lilly Endowment Community Scholars.

The highly competitive scholarship recognizes outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and a commitment to community service. Each year, only a small number of students across Indiana receive the award through their local community foundations.

This year, Zionsville Community High School celebrates the remarkable achievement of two students selected as Lilly Endowment Community Scholars, a distinction that reflects not only their individual accomplishments but also the strength of the academic opportunities and support systems within Zionsville Community Schools.

The Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship provides recipients with full tuition to an Indiana college or university, along with support for required fees and a stipend for books.

More than financial support, the award recognizes students who demonstrate

character, initiative, and a desire to contribute to their communities.

For the ZCHS recipients, the recognition represents years of dedication in the classroom, involvement in school activities, and a commitment to making a difference both in school and beyond.

Their achievement is also a source of pride for the entire ZCS community.

Educators, mentors, families, and peers all play a role in helping students develop the curiosity, leadership, and service mindset that the Lilly Endowment scholarship seeks to recognize.

As these students prepare for the next chapter of their academic journeys, their success reflects the shared commitment of a community that believes deeply in education and in supporting students as they pursue their dreams.

Being named a Lilly Endowment Community Scholar is an extraordinary accomplishment, and Zionsville Community Schools proudly celebrates these students and the bright futures ahead of them.

Eight ZCHS students named National Merit Scholarship Finalists Zionsville Community High School is celebrating the academic achievements of eight students who have advanced to become National Merit Scholarship Finalists, a distinction earned by fewer than one percent of high school seniors nationwide.

The National Merit Scholarship Program recognizes students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance, strong standardized test scores, and a sustained commitment to learning.

This year’s ZCHS National Merit Finalists are Jake Tompkins, Srinithya Basireddy, Liam Hendry, Luke Kouns, Jacob Clarizia, Tianle Liang, Romaan

Shaikh and Andrew Beardsley.

Advancing from semifinalist standing to finalist status places these students among the most academically accomplished seniors in the country. Finalists are now eligible to compete for National Merit Scholarships awarded later this spring.

Their achievement reflects years of dedication in the classroom as well as the support of teachers, families, and mentors who have helped guide their academic journeys.

Zionsville Community Schools congratulates these students on this outstanding accomplishment and celebrates the bright futures ahead of them.

Youth Art Month Throughout March, ZCS students shared their creativity during Youth Art Month, with artwork displayed in schools and around the community.

Use the QR code to hear what student artists say about what art means to them and why it’s important to have a space to create.

Honoring Excellence in Student Journalism

Lauren Wagner ZCHS Journalism Teacher

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Zionsville Community High School journalism educator Lauren Wagner has been named the recipient of the 2026 Ella Sengenberger Adviser of the Year Award, one of Indiana’s highest honors for scholastic journalism advisers.

Presented by the Indiana High School Press Association (IHSPA), the award recognizes an adviser who has made outstanding contributions to student journalism across the state. The award is named in honor of Ella Sengenberger, a founding IHSPA member and nationally recognized journalism educator whose legacy helped shape scholastic journalism in Indiana.

At ZCHS, Wagner advises the school’s Aerie yearbook and Harbinger news magazine and recently launched the school’s sports media program. Under her leadership, students have developed a strong culture of ownership, creativity, and journalistic integrity while producing award-winning publications.

Her impact extends far beyond the classroom. Wagner has served in every leadership role on the IHSPA executive board, including nearly two years as president. During that time, she helped coordinate state conventions, organize adviser retreats, lead student leadership

workshops, and secure a long-term partnership with Franklin College to support the future of the association.

Wagner’s influence also reaches the national level. A certified Journalism Education Association Mentor Teacher, she serves on the JEA certification committee and frequently presents at national conventions. She also works with Ball State University’s College of Communication, Information, and Media to support student journalism programs across the state through summer workshops and the annual JDay+/CCIM+ conference.

Students and colleagues alike describe Wagner as a mentor who

balances professionalism with genuine care for others while encouraging students to find their voice through storytelling.

“Simply said: She’s the teacher we all strive to be,” said Brian Hayes, assistant dean for student outreach and engagement at Ball State University. “She’s the mentor we all wish we were. And she’s the friend we all want.”

Through her leadership, service and dedication to student voice, Wagner continues a tradition of excellence in scholastic journalism while helping students develop the skills and confidence to tell stories.

SPRING 2026

Curiosity on Display Students showcase creativity and discovery at science fairs across ZCS Across Zionsville Community Schools, students recently put their curiosity to the test during science fairs held at elementary and middle schools throughout the district.

From investigating chemical reactions to exploring environmental questions and engineering solutions, students designed experiments, collected data, and presented their findings to judges, teachers, and families.

Science fairs provide students with an opportunity to move beyond the classroom textbook and explore questions that spark their thinking. Through the process, students learn how to design experiments, analyze results, and communicate their discoveries.

At the elementary level, our young scientists shared projects that explored everything from plant growth and energy to everyday scientific mysteries.

Middle school students expanded

on those skills by developing more complex investigations and presenting their work at the middle school science and engineering fairs.

The events not only highlight student learning, but also celebrate the exploration that drives science forward. Families and community members had the opportunity to visit displays, ask questions, and see firsthand the creativity and problem-solving skills of ZCS students.

Science fairs reflect the district’s commitment to hands-on learning and encouraging students to ask questions about the world around them.

Across Zionsville Community Schools Science and Engineering Fairs, one thing was clear: the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators is already hard at work.

The World Comes to PVE International Night celebrates cultures, traditions, and community connections Pleasant View Elementary School was transformed into a celebration of global learning during the school’s annual PVE International Night.

Families, students, and staff filled the building as cultures from around the world came to life through colorful displays, traditional foods, music, and special performances.

Throughout the evening, families shared stories about their countries, traditions, languages, and customs, turning the school into an interactive global learning experience. Students

and families explored together, learning about cultures from around the world while celebrating the diversity within the school community.

The event encouraged curiosity and cultural awareness, offering students an opportunity to see the world through the experiences and traditions of others.

PVE International Night also reflects the strength of the school community. Families, educators, and students work together to create an

evening of connection, celebration, and shared learning.

Events like this extend learning beyond the classroom, helping students develop a broader understanding of the world around them while strengthening the bonds that make the Zionsville Community Schools community so special.

Curtain Up across ZCS The spring performing arts season is taking center stage across Zionsville Community Schools. Zionsville Middle School presented Oklahoma! while Zionsville West Middle School brought Newsies to life, kicking off a season of spring musicals across the district. From elementary and middle school stages to the high school spotlight, students are sharing their talent, creativity, and hard work with audiences throughout the community.

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SPRING 2026

Thank You, STAR Bank, for Supporting ZCS

Launch Your Future!

Get a head start on college and your career with our 2026–2027 Internship Program, located right here at Zionsville High School.

From classrooms to boardrooms, our interns gain real world experience, professional mentorship, and a meaningful resume boost—all before graduation.

Our hearts are in it Keeping Indiana heart strong

Indiana’s heart beats strongest when we do it together. Neighbors, families, caregivers, fans and communities. Every simple step toward heart health, every connection, every story adds up. Together, we’re building a stronger, healthier Indiana for generations to come.

This hands-on opportunity helps students build confidence, skills, and connections that set them apart for what’s next.

SCAN THE QR CODE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ZCS AND STAR PARTNERSHIP AND LOOK FOR NEW INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES OPENING SOON!

Scan the code to learn more

starfinancial.com © Ascension 2025. All rights reserved.

ZCS Awarded Prestigious Rosie Award Health Rosetta proudly announced that Zionsville Community Schools has been awarded the Rosie Award.

This recognition placed Zionsville Community Schools among a select group of employers and public sector leaders who are transforming health benefits into a force for good.

Health Rosetta evaluated plan design, transparency, primary care access, pharmacy benefits, and stewardship practices.

ZCS demonstrated measurable results, not only controlling costs but also reinvesting savings back into their people and communities.

In response to evolving legislation and funding complexities, the district recently launched a refreshed finance section on the ZCS website. The updated resource explains Indiana school funding sources, enrollment-based revenue, the role of local referenda, and long-term financial planning in a more accessible and interactive format. The site includes visual tools and will continue to be updated as legislative changes occur.

ZCS Board of School Trustees

Mrs. Katie Aeschliman Board President

Mr. Michael Berg Board Vice President

Mrs. Jennifer Valentine Board Member

Mr. Mike Coussens Board Secretary

Dr. Christy Wessel-Powell, Ph.D. 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 donated funds.

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Financial Transparency and Community Engagement

ZEF Grants in Action A Zionsville Education Foundation grant for $1,800 is bringing adaptive art experiences to middle school life skills and functional academics students through a partnership with nonprofit ArtMix, helping life skills students explore creativity through hands-on art with a professional artist. Student artwork will be featured in an exhibit at the SullivanMunce Cultural Center on May 1 from 5–7 p.m., with additional viewing hours on May 2.

Please consider supporting grants like this across every discipline by visiting zionsvilleeducationfoundation.org

©2026 STAR Financial Group

A ZCS Partner with a Big Heart for People