Friday Five 10January2025

1.

Do you want to build a snowman?

A frosty start to 2025

Snow has been the theme across Zionsville Community Schools this week! The first week back after winter break brought plenty of snow and lots of fun.

Monday turned into a perfect day for snowy adventures, as students were not scheduled to return until Tuesday. Thank you to everyone who shared snapshots of their snow day fun. We loved seeing the creativity and joy as our students made the most of their winter wonderland!

2.

Clearing the way!

A special snow shout-out

We want to express our gratitude to the ZCS staff members who work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep our schools safe and accessible during winter weather.

From monitoring forecasts and driving conditions to clearing snow and ice from walkways and parking lots, their dedication ensures campuses are ready for the safe arrival and dismissal of staff and students. Thank you also to bus drivers who navigate snowy roads, ensuring students arrive to school and return home safely.

Thank you for "clearing the way" and making safety a top priority.

3.

Update on PowerSchool's security breach

Cybersecurity Update:
PowerSchool Security Breach

We are providing ongoing updates regarding the recent cybersecurity breach involving PowerSchool. Zionsville Community Schools (ZCS) is a client of PowerSchool, utilizing its platforms and services for daily student and staff operations.

We are committed to transparency and will share updates as we receive additional information from PowerSchool. All ZCS-specific communication will shared on the district's website page.

Information about PowerSchool Cybersecurity Incident

4.

ZWMS student earns statewide recognition

Peace Poster contest winner headed to International Competition

Congratulations to Zionsville West Middle School student Yoko Zheng who won the Lions Club Indiana Peace Poster competition and will now represent Indiana in the international competition.

Read article in the Current here

5.

Moon Rocks at Trailside Elementary School

Third grade students at Trailside Elementary School experience lunar exploration

Third graders at Trailside Elementary had an opportunity to engage with history by handling moon rocks from the Apollo 14 mission in their STEM classroom. This experience enabled students to investigate the moon's structure and gain insights into its formation.

By utilizing NASA maps, students traced the path of the Apollo 14 mission across the moon's surface, promoting critical thinking and inquiry-based learning. Literacy Coach Marissa Argus and STEM Teacher Molly Seward, both of whom have previously attended Space Camp, enhanced this experience. Marissa holds a Lunar and Meteorite Certification, which permits her to borrow these extraordinary artifacts, allowing students to interact with them directly.

This hands-on exploration not only broadened the students' understanding of lunar geology but also integrated literacy instruction. The project sparked curiosity and a love for learning, emphasizing the significance of exploration and discovery in education.