LWCC Policyholder Story

Zachary Community Schools: From Community Roots to Academic Heights

As a top performing school district in Louisiana since 2005, Zachary Community School District has consistently paired academic excellence with whole-child support. Its path to excellence continues today, with safety innovations creating a secure education environment rich in opportunity, community, and curiosity.

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Loyal to academic excellence.

Known as a top performer, the Zachary Community School District combines rigorous academic standards with a whole-child approach, fostering character and a lifelong love of learning.

Loyal to innovative safety efforts.

The Zachary Community School District maintains the highest level of safety and has created a culture of vigilance to ensure the wellbeing of every student and staff member.

Loyal to strong communities.

The district’s reputation of excellence is a top reason families move to the area, helping to drive economic growth and shape the next generation of leaders who will strengthen the community for years to come.

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GET TO KNOW

Zachary Community School District

The Zachary Community School District is a top-performing public school system dedicated to excellence in education. Serving over 5,500 students, the district focuses on academic achievement, character development, and preparing students for lifelong success through world-class academics, arts, athletics, and extracurricular opportunities.

Visit Zachary Community School District's Website

Model of Excellence

While growing at a faster rate than any district in the state, the Zachary Community School District has maintained high standards of excellence in the areas of academics, athletics, community service, and extracurricular activities.  This remarkable balance of growth and quality has solidified its reputation as a model educator, not just for Louisiana but for the entire nation.

The district's innovative educational programs challenge students to think critically, embrace creativity, and pursue opportunities beyond the boundaries of Zachary, equipping them to thrive in an increasingly globalized world. By fostering a culture of high expectations, holistic development, and community engagement, Zachary inspires other districts to prioritize academic rigor and student well-being. Their strong track record demonstrates that progress and excellence can go hand in hand.

Leader in School Safety

The Zachary Community School District puts safety first, providing parents with peace of mind and creating a secure environment for students and staff. As an LWCC policyholder, the district works with LWCC's Consultants on Call to review and enhance safety protocols, ensuring compliance with the highest standards.

“As an LWCC policyholder, being able to have a team that can support us quickly and effectively allows us to focus back on our core work, which is education,” shares Ben Necaise, Superintendent of Zachary Community School District.

The district also partners with the Zachary Police Department to provide on-site Student Resource Officers (SROs) and extra-duty officers to maintain a consistent presence during the school day and at extracurricular events. Campuses feature 24/7 camera surveillance, controlled access points, bullet-proof glass, fencing, and panic buttons. Advanced tools like the Evolv Weapon Detection System, ZeroEyes Weapon Detection System, and Raptor Visitor Management System further enhance security.

Additional measures include regular safety audits, staff training, an anonymous reporting app, and gaggle filters to monitor digital activity. Superintendent Necaise emphasizes that safety is the district's top priority, ensuring families know their children are well-protected. Through innovative technology, expert consultation, and proactive measures, Zachary Community Schools sets a standard for safety in education.

More Than Academics

The Zachary Community School District goes beyond stellar academics, offering students a well-rounded education through a variety of extracurricular opportunities that foster growth, creativity, and teamwork. From championship-winning athletic programs to award-winning arts and music initiatives, Zachary provides students with platforms to explore their passions, develop leadership skills, and build confidence. Clubs, community service projects, and innovative programs further enrich students’ experiences, ensuring they have opportunities to excel both inside and outside the classroom. By nurturing the whole student, Zachary empowers young people to discover their potential and prepares them for success in school, in life, and in their communities.

“So often, you see schools focus only on academics, which is important, but so is character development,” says Superintendent Necaise. “Our students have opportunities to understand team building and leadership, and they thrive in those experiences.”

Community Builder

The Zachary Community School District is more than an exceptional educational system; it is a cornerstone of the community, driving economic growth, attracting families, and building a reputation of excellence that enhances the entire area. A high-performing school district like Zachary draws families seeking top-tier education for their children, boosting the local housing market and fostering a thriving, engaged community. Additionally, the district is a significant employer, creating jobs for educators, support staff, administrators, and local contractors, contributing to the area's economic vitality.

“It’s exciting to see students throughout the community, whether working in businesses, supporting local politics, or even returning to the district as a teacher,” says Superintendent Necaise. “And while we encourage them to achieve and go beyond their hometown, we’re happy to see them come back and remain a part of the fabric of us.”

The district's commitment to excellence extends beyond the classroom, promoting community pride and a shared vision for the future. This reputation draws businesses and organizations eager to invest in a community known for its strong schools, further bolstering economic development. By preparing students to become future leaders and creating opportunities for residents to connect, contribute, and grow, Zachary Community School District exemplifies the transformative power a school system can have on its community.

A lasting impact on Louisiana

Public education in Louisiana faces significant challenges, from funding gaps to teacher shortages and achievement disparities. Despite these hurdles, districts like the Zachary Community School District are driving positive change. Known for its strong performance, Zachary focuses on innovative programs, teacher support, and community partnerships to boost student success. By investing in education and addressing key issues, districts like Zachary are helping shape a brighter future for Louisiana’s students and communities.

Top 10 school

Zachary is consistently recognized as one of the top 10 school districts in the state, serving as a powerful example of excellence and progress in a state that regularly ranks among the bottom nationally for education.

95% graduation rate

The Zachary Community School District boasts a graduation rate exceeding 95%, significantly higher than the national average, reflecting its commitment to student success.

'A' rated school system

From the beginning, the Zachary Community School District has consistently been recognized as one of Louisiana's top-performing school districts, earning an "A" letter grade and achieving a near perfect District Performance Score of 96.6 in 2022.

We focus on is the whole child experience and making sure students have access to academics, arts, and athletics to build character and become good citizens.”

Ben Necaise

Superintendent, Zachary Community Schools

We focus on is the whole child experience and making sure students have access to academics, arts, and athletics to build character and become good citizens.”

Ben Necaise

Superintendent, Zachary Community Schools

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