'It's Time' | Trinity High School principal retiring after more than 30 years | Education

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) - Trinity High School is saying goodbye to its principal after more than 30 years of service and dedication.

Dr. Dan Zoeller's retirement at the end of the 2025-26 school year was announced Wednesday in a news release. Zoeller is Trinity's longest serving principal and the sixth principal in the school's history.

Zoeller was described as a leader, a lifelong learner, and a respected educator by his peers and colleagues. He started at Trinity in 1991, and was appointed the Activities Director in 2000. He was promoted to principal in 2004.

During his tenure, Zoeller helped develop Trinity's House System, one of the most impactful projects of his career. The House System still stands as a national model, promoting leadership, mentorship, and a deeper sense of community among students.

"Dr. Zoeller has been much more than a principal," Trinity President James Torra said in the release. "His impact on our school and the community is immeasurable, and it will be felt for generations. The Trinity community has been blessed by his vision and leadership."

Zoeller expressed gratitude for his time at Trinity, and praised the staff and other school leaders in a written statement.

"To have a leadership role at Trinity has been one of the great privileges of my lifetime," Zoeller said. "I have immensely enjoyed helping thousands of young people prepare for life's challenges and opportunities, but perhaps my greatest impact can be found in the dedicated, talented staff I've been able to hire and work beside. Trinity's teachers are inspiring and phenomenal. It's time, but stepping away from this vibrant, learning community isn't easy."

A search for Trinity's next principal is currently underway, and the school said the selection will be made before the start of the 2026-27 school year.

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