Head of School
Meet Kirk Wheeler, Ed.D.
Dr. Kirk Wheeler has been the STS Head of School since July 2005 and has been in education for thirty years. Previously, he served as the Preschool – 12 Curriculum Coordinator and Lower School Principal at the American School of Rio de Janeiro, a classroom teacher at Vail Mountain School, and supervisor for the summer mountain program for the Town of Vail. His teaching experience includes physical education, Spanish, first through fourth grades, and middle school language arts. His leadership philosophy is embodied in the phrase, “Educational Leadership through Partnership." Dr. Wheeler believes that two elements define 21st century schools: relationships and "edgework."
Dr. Wheeler is a former member of the Board of Governors for the Northwest Association of Independent Schools (NWAIS) and founding member of the Rubicon Educational Foundation Board of Directors. He currently serves on the Accreditation Committee for NWAIS and the CustomED Board of Directors. Dr. Wheeler holds a Doctorate in Education, with an emphasis in Policy and Administration, Master of Arts, with an emphasis in international education, and Bachelor of Arts, with an emphasis in Elementary Education.
As a recipient of the Klingenstein Fellowship for School Heads, Dr. Wheeler has continued to pursue his passion for developing schools and brings together emerging schools of thought, collaborative experiences, and a sense of history to create powerful partnerships for 21st century education. He is proud to have the opportunity to collaborate with an exceptional leadership and teaching team at STS, which has resulted in the School being recognized as being one of 33 Microsoft Showcase Schools worldwide, LEED Gold certification, and WA Green School status.
Head's Welcome
What do you envision for your child?
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