Head of School

Meet Kirk Wheeler, Ed.D.

Dr. Kirk Wheeler

Dr. Kirk Wheeler has been the head of school at St. Thomas School (STS) since July 2005, leading the institution with vision, innovation, and dedication for nearly two decades. With a career in education spanning almost 40 years, Dr. Wheeler’s journey began at Vail Mountain School, where he taught physical education, Spanish, first through fourth grades, and middle school language arts. Before joining STS, he held leadership roles at the American School of Rio de Janeiro and served as lead supervisor for the summer mountain program for the Town of Vail.

An educator at heart, Dr. Wheeler combines emerging educational philosophies, a strong sense of culture, and collaborative tools to create strategic pathways for school communities. His pioneering approach, known as "edgework," integrates personal, professional, and organizational development to foster powerful partnerships and innovative growth.

Dr. Wheeler has played an active role in the broader educational community, previously serving on the board of governors and accreditation committee for the Northwest Association of Independent Schools (NWAIS). He was also a founding member of the Rubicon Educational Foundation Board of Directors and currently serves on the CustomED Board of Directors. His academic credentials include a doctorate in education with an emphasis in policy and administration, a Master of Arts in international education, and a Bachelor of Arts in elementary education.

A recipient of the prestigious Klingenstein Fellowship for School Heads, Dr. Wheeler has devoted his career to advancing education through innovation and collaboration. At STS, he has guided the school to national recognition as a Microsoft Showcase School and achieved the milestone of becoming Washington state’s first LEED Gold-certified campus. His leadership has also been instrumental in creating the Athletics and Performing Arts Center, the Center for Leadership and Innovation, and the Center for Responsive Learning.

In October 2023, Dr. Wheeler announced that he would conclude his tenure as head of school at the end of the 2024-2025 academic year, marking 20 years of transformational leadership. Reflecting on his legacy, the board of trustees expressed deep gratitude: “We are profoundly thankful for Dr. Wheeler’s leadership and the lasting impact he has had on our students, families, faculty, and staff.”

Dr. Wheeler shared his thoughts on this milestone:
"Together, we have built a community where academic excellence, leadership, and character development thrive. Witnessing generations of students grow into compassionate, responsible global citizens has been the most rewarding aspect of my career. As I prepare to embark on the next chapter, I do so with immense gratitude for this extraordinary school and its future."

As he prepares to pass the baton, Dr. Wheeler is committed to a seamless transition, ensuring that the core values and vision of STS continue to guide its path forward. His legacy as a visionary leader and advocate for innovative education will inspire the community for years to come.

Head's Welcome

What do you envision for your child?

Head of School with students

As we move boldly through the rapidly-evolving 21st century, I believe we must prepare our children for a world that does not yet exist. An excellent academic foundation is essential.

Even more so, our children will need to be able to adapt to change, think critically, communicate effectively, intimately know the world around them, maintain high ethical standards and integrity, and constantly position themselves to absorb a rapid influx of information.

It is not enough to be satisfied with our previous successes as we shape this next generation of learners and leaders. We must pursue innovations and forge new paths - and expect our students to do the same.

Each child is exceptional, and we remain committed to being a school where all students are inspired to reach their fullest potential, surrounded by a community that embraces high expectations, shared values, and a passion for learning. Underpinning our vision is the certainty that our greatest strength has been - and continues to be - our three pillars: character, curriculum, and community.

I am thrilled to welcome you to St. Thomas School. I encourage you to visit us here in Medina and experience this remarkable community of learners and leaders for yourself.

Kirk Wheeler, Ed.D.
Head of School