FRIDAY
FIVE
This week, we begin highlighting our building Teachers of the Year. We will feature three each week leading up to the May 11 school board meeting, when the district Teacher of the Year will be announced and we celebrate our retirees and milestone achievements. May is always a special time to come together and recognize the people who make ZCS what it is.
Here is this week’s look at what is happening across our schools.
April 24, 2026
ZCHS
Inside Forensic Science
University partnership brings forensic anthropology to ZCHS classrooms
Dr. Krista Latham and four students from the University of Indianapolis recently joined ZCHS to share their expertise in forensic anthropology. ZCS forensics students took part in mock skeletal identification scenarios, applying classroom learning to real-world investigative work. It was a hands-on experience that challenged students to think critically and see the field in action.
Art in the City
ZMS eighth grade students explore creativity and culture in Chicago
ZMS eighth grade art students took their learning on the road this month with a trip to Chicago. Highlights included an architecture boat tour along the Chicago River, a visit to the Art Institute of Chicago, and hands-on exploration at the Museum of Science and Industry. Students also stepped back in time at the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, took in skyline views with the 360 Tilt experience, explored Millennium Park, and visited Cloud Gate. It was a memorable experience filled with inspiration and creativity.
ZCHS
Creativity on Display
ZCHS artists shine at the Spring Art Show
The ZCHS Spring Art Show was a vibrant celebration of student creativity, filled with color, imagination, and talent. From detailed pieces to bold designs, the exhibit showcased the work and growth of our high school artists. We are proud of our incredibly talented artists.
Paths and Possibilities
As part of CLP’s career speaker series, School Board Vice President Michael Berg and Local Attorney Sarah Trostle spent time with students sharing their career journeys. From driving a forklift to working with youth in the mental health field and living across multiple continents, Mr. Berg’s path reflected exploration and growth. Ms. Trostle shared her transition from teaching into the private sector as a family lawyer. Both speakers encouraged students to embrace uncertainty and offered important reminders to students that they do not need to have their life trajectory determined by graduation day.
Excellence
in Every Building
Meet our ZCS Teachers of the Year, three at a time leading up to the May 11 Board Meeting
Over the next three weeks, we are proud to highlight our ZCS Teachers of the Year. Each week, we will feature three educators 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.
Zionsville Community High School
“From my very first teaching job, I knew that was where I was meant to be.”
Dawn Makley
Zionsville Community High School Teacher of the Year 2026
A video conversation with ZCHS Teacher of the Year Dawn Makley
A Love for Science, A Heart for Students
Zionsville Community High School Teacher of the Year Dawn Makley finds purpose in curiosity, connection, and helping students see what is possible
From a childhood
Friday Five April 24
