FRIDAY
FIVE
This week’s Friday Five is packed with highlights of the annual student traditions during this time of year.
We continue highlighting our Teachers of the Year. This week, we feature the final three teachers leading up to the May 11 school board meeting, when the district Teacher of the Year will be announced, and we will also celebrate retirees and milestone achievements. May is always a special time to come together and recognize the people who make ZCS what it is.
May 8, 2026
Senior families:
As we begin celebrating the ZCHS Class of 2026, we are inviting families to share a senior photo to be included in a special district video honoring this year’s graduating class. This will be included in various online spaces including the Friday Five, the ZCS Digest, the Graduation Highlight Report, and on social media.
We would love to feature photos that reflect what comes next for your senior. This might include wearing college spirit wear, highlighting a future career path, trade program, military enlistment, gap year plans, or another meaningful next step. We are excited to celebrate every graduate and the unique journey ahead.
To be included, please send your photo to zcsphotos@zcs.k12.in.us with the subject line “ZCHS Class of 2026” by May 15.
1.
A Night
to Shine
The Zionsville West Middle School Talent and Art Show celebrated creativity, confidence, and student expression across the arts.
Creativity took center stage at the Zionsville West Middle School Talent and Art Show as students shared their talents through visual art, music, performance, and more. The evening highlighted the many ways student expression comes to life, giving families and the school community an opportunity to experience the creativity happening inside classrooms and beyond.
From artwork displayed throughout the space to student performances on stage, the event reflected both courage and creativity. For many students, it was a chance to step into the spotlight and also an opportunity to celebrate the work they have developed throughout the year.
2.
Where the
Road Leads
Some of our ZCHS Seniors shared what's next
Some ZCHS seniors shared their next steps during lunch recently, highlighting the many paths that begin after graduation.
During lunch on May 1, seniors shared what comes next. Through a short video and photos, students shared their plans beyond graduation, offering a glimpse into the many directions the Class of 2026 is headed.
From colleges and universities to trades, military service, careers, and gap year experiences, the decisions reflect each student journey. Spirit wear, future plans, and proud smiles filled the cafeteria last week.
Celebrations continue throughout the month of May!
3.
Recognizing
Academic Excellence
Top 20 students from all three Boone County high schools came together for a countywide celebration at Lebanon High School.
Outstanding academic achievement was celebrated as the Boone County Top 20 students from each of the three county schools gathered for a recognition luncheon at Lebanon High School. The event honored seniors from across the county who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership, and success throughout their high school careers.
Zionsville Community High School students were among those recognized, representing years of commitment inside and outside the classroom. Students were recognized for reaching this impressive milestone.
Congratulations!
4.
Excellence
in Every Building
Meet our ZCS Teachers of the Year, three at a time leading up to the May 11 Board Meeting
We are proud to be highlighting our ZCS Teachers of the Year. We have been featuring three educators a week who represent the very best of our schools through their passion, dedication, and impact on students. These stories offer a glimpse into the classrooms and connections that make ZCS special, as we count down to the May 11 celebration and the announcement of our district Teacher of the Year.
This week, we are highlighting:
- Katie Leach, Pleasant View Elementary School
- Jennifer Hall, Zionsville Middle School
- Lisa Mueller, Trailside Elementary School
Pleasant View Elementary School
"Getting to watch that transformation is just such a special feeling every single year.”
Katie Leach
Pleasant View Elementary School Teacher of the Year 2026
A video conversation with Pleasant View Elementary School Teacher of the Year Katie Leach
Watching Confidence Grow
Pleasant View Elementary School Teacher of the Year Katie Leach finds joy in helping young learners discover their potential
For Katie Leach, teaching has always felt like the right path. Inspired by watching her mother’s impact as an educator and shaped by memorable experiences with her own teachers, she knew from a young age that she wanted to work with children. Today, she finds fulfillment in creating the same sense of confidence, encouragement, and belonging that once shaped her as a student.
At Pleasant View Elementary, Leach values the strong collaboration and support that surrounds her each day. Early in her career, she says the guidance of teammates, administrators, and colleagues has helped her grow as an educator and build confidence in her work. She describes the school community as one that works together with a shared focus on helping students succeed.
As a kindergarten teacher, Leach treasures the transformation that happens across a school year. From the first days of August to the final weeks of spring, she watches students gain independence, master new skills, and develop confidence as learners. For her, seeing that growth unfold is what makes teaching so rewarding.
Zionsville Middle School
"I want them to feel safe
every day."
Jennifer Hall
Zionsville Middle School Teacher of the Year 2026
A video conversation with Zionsville Middle School Teacher of the Year Jennifer Hall
Helping Every Student Believe They Can Learn
Zionsville Middle School Teacher of the Year Jennifer Hall builds trust, connection, and confidence in every classroom experience
For Jennifer Hall, teaching has always been more than a profession. From childhood chalkboards and pretend classrooms to a lifelong career in education, she knew early on that working with students was her calling. Inspired by a deep love of learning and a passion for helping children succeed, she has spent decades creating spaces where students feel supported and encouraged.
At Zionsville Middle School, Hall values the strong sense of teamwork that surrounds her each day. She credits colleagues and administrators for creating an environment built on compassion, collaboration, and a shared commitment to students. Their support, she says, helps her bring her best to the classroom.
Throughout her career, Hall has seen the power of relationships transform learning. She recalls students who arrived struggling to trust or succeed but found confidence through patience, care, and consistency. For Hall, the most rewarding moments come when students begin to believe in themselves and discover that learning is possible in ways they never expected.
Trailside
Elementary School
"I see how special it really is, and I don’t take it for granted at all."
Lisa Mueller
Trailside Elementary School Teacher of the Year 2026
A video conversation with Trailside Elementary School Teacher of the Lisa Mueller
Creating a Place that Feels Like Home
Trailside Elementary School Teacher of the Year Lisa Mueller builds connection, collaboration, and a classroom where students feel seen
For Lisa Mueller, the journey to teaching began with a first grade teacher who made a lasting impression. She remembers feeling seen, valued, and at home in the classroom, an experience that later inspired her own path into education. Through cadet teaching opportunities and years of learning, she discovered a passion for creating that same sense of belonging for students.
At Trailside Elementary School, Mueller values the strength of collaboration and the support of her team. She describes her grade-level colleagues as a source of encouragement, humor, and shared problem-solving, helping one another navigate the daily work of reaching students in impactful ways.
In her classroom, Mueller finds fulfillment in helping students take ownership of their learning. She recalls a recent Young Authors project where every child was supported in sharing their voice and celebrating their work. For Mueller, moments like these reflect what matters most, creating a space where students feel confident, included, and proud of what they can accomplish.
5.
Celebrating
Educators
Recognize a favorite staff member during Staff Appreciation Week with an Eagle Honor Certificate through the Zionsville Education Foundation.
Staff Appreciation Week and the month of May bring an opportunity to recognize the educators and staff members who make a lasting impact on students and families across Zionsville Community Schools.
Through the Zionsville Education Foundation’s Eagle Honor program, families can celebrate a favorite teacher, counselor, bus driver, administrator, or staff member with a personalized certificate. With a donation of $10 or more per honoree, each Eagle Honor serves as a simple but heartfelt way to say thank you.
Certificates will be printed and delivered directly to staff members, creating a special surprise.
Take a look at ZCS Digest, our digital publication created for the Zionsville Community Schools community. The first two issues are linked below.
If it is not already in your inbox, we invite you to subscribe and stay connected.
Every story we share reflects the people, moments, and experiences that make Zionsville Community Schools special. This is our story, and it belongs to all of us.
ZCS Spring Newspaper
ZCS Strategic Plan 2025-2030
ZCS Strategic Plan 2025-2030
ZCS Strategic Plan 2025-2030
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