Thornton named next Naperville Central principal

In hiring Jackie Thornton as its next principal, Naperville Central High School turned to a voice of experience.

Thornton, Naperville Central's assistant principal for curriculum and instruction for the last 19 years, was approved to replace retiring Principal Bill Wiesbrook at Tuesday's Naperville Unit District 203 board meeting.

Thornton, who officially begins her tenure on July 1, will become Naperville Central's first female principal.

"I care deeply about the Naperville Central community, and I'm committed to maintaining our tradition of excellence while I continue to work with District 203 leaders and the Redhawk educators who are so passionately dedicated to the students in our care," Thornton said. "I'm so proud and excited for this opportunity."

Thornton, a Downers Grove native, earned a bachelor's degree in mathematics from Benedictine University and a master's degree in educational leadership and administration from North Central College. Thornton was hired in 1997 as a math teacher at Naperville Central.

The community will have the opportunity to meet with Thornton during feedback sessions in February.

"She clearly distinguished herself as the top candidate for this position throughout the process," District 203 Superintendent Dan Bridges said. "We're honored to have such a strong internal candidate ready to step forward."