Dear St. Thomas School Community,

What an extraordinary start to the new school year! There is such a feeling of joy in the air!

I still recall being four years old and starting school for the first time. I walked into my kindergarten classroom brimming over with anticipation and curiosity. And being incredibly shy, I was also filled with worry.  

I made it through that first day of kindergarten, and gradually overcame my shyness. Years later I made the decision to become an educator – and I never looked back! I have never known an autumn that didn’t mean “back to school.” It is a time filled with optimism and hope, renewal and reconnection. These first few months feel fresh, and yet somehow familiar in their routines. Even today, after nearly forty years in education, I still can’t sleep before the first day of school, and I find myself so excited about how the year will unfold!  

Alas, next year will be my last “back to school” here at STS. After nearly two decades of serving our wonderful school community as head of school, I have decided to leave STS at the end of the 2024-2025 school year.

The decision to leave a community so close to my heart was not taken lightly, and it carries a range of emotions: excitement, nostalgia, gratitude, and optimism. It is bittersweet. The experiences, memories, challenges, and triumphs we have shared will forever remain integral chapters of my life. Together, we have navigated many ebbs and flows, celebrated numerous achievements, bid farewell to some dear friends, and most importantly, have seen generations of students blossom into thoughtful, responsible, and passionate global citizens. Witnessing this transformation year after year has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of my career. 

While my departure certainly brings change, I want to assure you that the transition will be smooth. Our dedicated board of trustees has already begun the search process for my successor, and I am deeply committed to doing what I can to support the process and the community.

While change is inevitable, the core principles and values of STS remain steadfast. Our shared mission to foster an environment of academic excellence, character development, leadership, and global citizenship continues to guide us. The school’s success is a testament to the collaboration between its dedicated faculty and staff, extraordinary students, and supportive, involved families like yours. 

We still have many months together, and I ask for your continued support and partnership in making the transition as seamless as possible. There will be many opportunities to come together as a community, to celebrate our collective journey, and to welcome new beginnings. There is a lot of joy in that!

From the depths of my heart, thank you for entrusting me with the incredible responsibility and privilege of leading St. Thomas School. It has been an honor and joy to serve this community. As I look toward the next chapter of my life, I do so with immense gratitude and confidence that St. Thomas School is well positioned for continued excellence. 

With gratitude,

Kirk Wheeler, Ed.D.
Head of School