Wheaton Academy announces leadership transitions for academic excellence
Wheaton Academy in West Chicago recently announced several exciting leadership transitions that reflect a continued commitment to innovation, academic excellence, and Kingdom impact. These changes mark a new chapter in the academy’s story.
Current principal Kori Hockett will be promoted to a newly created role as chief academic officer. In this capacity, she will lead the Wheaton Academy Institute, retain oversight of the school’s athletics department, and continue to provide vital coaching and mentoring to faculty and staff. Hockett spearheaded innovative programs that experienced substantial growth, necessitating Wheaton Academy’s most recent campus expansion.
During her 25-year tenure, Hockett served as a teacher, including Teacher of the Year, a coach, an assistant principal, and, currently, the principal. In the past eight years as principal, Hockett has cultivated a culture of excellence in teaching and learning at Wheaton Academy.
A highly sought-after speaker and consultant in school culture and teacher development, Hockett’s new role will advance Christian schooling for the glory of God.
Brad Thornton, current vice principal, will become the academy’s next principal. Thornton has served for 12 years in various roles — from classroom teacher and coach to department head and campus leader. In 2019, he was named Teacher of the Year.
Thornton has played a pivotal role in building strong athletic programs while also providing leadership in the English, fine arts, and Bible departments. He holds two master’s degrees, including one in School Leadership from Baylor University. Over the past eight years, he has worked closely with Hockett to lead and shape the culture at Wheaton Academy. Together, they secured the academy’s recognition as a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence.
After five years of pioneering leadership as executive director of the WA Institute and head of the business department, Phil Strzalka will be transitioning to a part-time role at Wheaton Academy. This shift will allow him to pursue an exciting opportunity in leadership and consulting with C12, a CEO Business Forum.
During his tenure, Strzalka led remarkable growth in our business program, launched the school’s first student-run business, The Shack, and shared Wheaton Academy’s best practices with schools across the country.
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As Wheaton Academy looks ahead, the community is grateful for God’s provision of faithful and capable leaders. These transitions are a testament to the academy’s mission to nurture growth in students through relationships, excellence, and service to the glory of God.