Act 1: Two Truths and a Lie

Can you guess which one of these “facts” about Mr. Zeljo isn’t quite true?

• His favorite activities are indoors
• He can dance the Charleston quite well
• He prefers coffee to tea

Take a moment to guess… then keep reading to find out!

Act 2: An Abbreviated Life Story

Jon Zeljo’s story does not begin with a clear path or sense of direction. As a boy studying in Tennessee, he had no idea what he was good at, what he was passionate about, or where he was headed. That feeling of uncertainty is what would shape his belief in the importance of student-centered learning.

Mr. Zeljo’s academic path led him to Duke University where he earned a masters degree in East Asian Studies, focusing on China. He began his professional career at a boarding school in Indiana as a teaching fellow, then continued his studies at the University of Virginia. As life evolved, so did his journey. When Mr. Zeljo welcomed his first child, the family relocated to Washington, D.C., and later to Boulder, Colorado—a place he still calls his favorite. There, he worked extensively on integrating technology into classrooms and on teaching other educators how to properly teach Asia. As he continued to educate, he grew to feel that education lacked a meaningful focus on the student experience, something that would have been so helpful to him as a child. So, he stepped away from the field altogether.

After spending some time in California, the Zeljo family eventually landed in Cincinnati. In his time away from education, Mr. Zeljo noticed a promising shift – schools were beginning to prioritize student engagement and well-being. When he found Cincinnati Country Day School, he found something that resonated with him: a tight-knit community that valued student input. “School has to be student-centered,” he says. “We must do whatever we can to engage kids and keep the joy of learning alive.” Now, back in the world of education, Mr. Zeljo’s goal at CCD is clear: create a culture in which all students are able to find their purpose and make the most of what they do.

Act 3: Fun Facts

• Secret Fan Alert: Zeljo was a Reds fan before he ever moved to Cincinnati. He even owns an autograph from Reds legend George Foster (left fielder, #15, 1969-1986).
• Favorite Book: Riding the Iron Rooster Through China by Paul Theroux – a captivating travel log full of personal reflections and unique cultural insights.
• Dream Dinner Guest: If he could have dinner with anyone in the word, dead or alive, he would dine with Joseph Campbell, a professor in religion. Mr. Zeljo admires his work with the power of myth and where people can find purpose.
• And the Lie is… that Mr. Zeljo’s favorite activities are indoors! He is an outdoorsy person with a deep love for the mountains.