District 214 board names new Wheeling High School principal

Northwest Suburban High School District 214 has hired Elgin High School Principal Jerry Cook as the next principal of Wheeling High School.

Cook was appointed to the position during Thursday's District 214 board workshop. He will take up the position July 1.

"We are confident that Jerry's experience in education, leadership and vision will support the tremendous work already happening at Wheeling," Superintendent David Schuler said in a news release. "Jerry will be a tremendous asset as we continue to work to ensure all students who leave our schoolhouse doors are ready for college and career."

Cook has more than 21 years of experience, holding roles ranging from teacher to dean to assistant principal and principal. His career began as a social studies teacher at Elgin High School and at Westchester High School in Los Angeles, where he was named "Most Inspirational Teacher" in 2004.

Two years later, Cook became the dean of students at Gifford Street Alternative High School in Elgin District U-46 and later was appointed assistant principal. In 2011, Cook assumed the role of principal at Elgin High School, where he led more than 2,400 students from diverse backgrounds.

"I can't wait to join teachers, staff, students, families and the community to ensure that every student at Wheeling has a clear pathway to college and a career once they graduate," Cook said in a news release. "I'm excited to help the Wildcats to dream big."

He will replace Angela Sisi, who was recently appointed director of Language Development in District 214.