Ms. Felske has dedicated 29 years in service to students in Zion.  In 1995, she began her career teaching 7th and 8th grade social studies in this community. In 2010, she moved to District 126 as a Dean of Students and later the Assistant Principal at New Tech High.  In 2021, she became the Principal of New Tech High @ Zion-Benton East.  She earned her bachelor’s degree in History and Secondary Education from Lake Forest College and a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction and School Leadership credentials from Concordia University, River Forest, Illinois.

"It is my belief that the education of our children is best accomplished through strong partnerships with parents and the surrounding community. I encourage our parents and guardians to become active participants in the education of our students by getting involved in school activities and keeping in contact with teachers and school staff. I recommend staying connected to the school by having an updated phone number and email address in Skyward so we can keep open communication, and you can visit our website and social media platforms regularly for news and updates.

I am honored to serve as principal of New Tech High @ Zion-Benton East and am excited about all the possibilities this new school year has to offer. I look forward to working collectively as a family to ensure our students thrive in our global society and graduate college, career, and life ready. If you have questions or concerns, or would simply like to connect, please feel free to email me at [email protected]

This is going to BEE a great year!"

Mr. McKnight has served the students and families of District 126 in various roles since 2008.  He served as a Dean of Students and as a teacher in the Social Science Department, where he taught Sociology and United States History.

Mr. McKnight grew up in Zion, and after graduating from Zion-Benton, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps where he was stationed at Camp Pendleton, California.  Mr. McKnight attended the University of Wisconsin-Parkside where he received a Bachelor's of Arts in Sociology and his teaching certification.  He then completed his Master of Arts in Educational Leadership at the American College of Education.