Institute Team
Phil Strzalka
Executive Director
Learn More About Phil
Phil brings more than 25 years of experience as an attorney and a management consultant developing and implementing people and operational solutions at educational institutions and other not-for-profit organizations across the country. His deep experience includes 100s of projects involving strategic planning, performance improvement, organizational design, business process redesign, and talent/leadership development for administrators, faculty, and staff. He has grown to become a regular thought leader, author, and speaker.
“I strongly believe that Christian educators have never been so well positioned to make an impact. It is my honor to currently serve as the Institute’s Executive Director. Soli Deo Gloria!”
Charity Moon
Marketing & Business Manager
Learn More About Charity
Charity Moon has been at Wheaton Academy for the past 11 years. This past year she took on a new role with Wheaton Academy Institute as the Marketing & Business Manager. In her current role with the Institute she helps coordinate the Best Practices and ISP Intensives as well as the Wheaton Academy Global network of schools. During her time at Wheaton Academy, she has served in a variety of roles within the International Program including the Assistant Director, ELL teacher for 9 years and Program Assistant. After graduating from Dallas Baptist University with a BAS in Sociology, Charity moved to China to teach English. During her five years in China, she taught EFL both to primary and college age students at a variety of language levels. She received her MA in TESOL/Intercultural Studies from Wheaton College and continues to use her experience from both teaching and living overseas to help international students adapt to their life in the States. Through the years, she has presented at numerous conferences on ways to support international students and serves as a resource for schools with international programs.
Dr. Gene Frost
Senior Consultant
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Dr. Gene Frost is an alumnus of Wheaton College, where he majored in religious studies. Gene received his divinity degree from Northern Seminary and his doctorate in education from Northern Illinois University. He began his career as a youth pastor and Bible teacher in a Christian school, then spent 22 years in the business world. His diverse business experience included being a pit trader on the Chicago Board of Options Exchange, a corporate trainer, and a human resources director for a company of 700 employees. His last ten years in business were spent as President and CEO of an educational mentoring and software company. Gene returned to his lifelong passion of Christian schooling by serving as Head of School at Wheaton Academy, West Chicago, Illinois, from 2006-2018. Wheaton Academy is one of the nation’s oldest and most respected evangelical Christian secondary schools. Gene has authored two books entitled, Learning from the Best: Growing Greatness in the Christian School (ACSI, 2007) and Learning from the Best Volume Two: Growing Greatness that Endures in the Christian School (ACSI, 2014).
Gene now serves as the Executive Director of the Wheaton Academy Foundation and as an executive coach for the Wheaton Academy Institute. The Wheaton Academy Institute leverages the experience and success of Wheaton Academy for the benefit of other Christian schools. The Institute sponsors an annual Best Practices Conference for the Christian School™ and an International Student Program conference. Other areas under the umbrella of the Institute are curricula, publishing, and consulting with other Christian schools. Gene continues to speak and consult with Christian schools all across America.
Gene and his wife Barbara have 15 grandchildren aged 13 and under, one granddog and one grandcat. Barb serves as the administrative assistant for the Foundation.
Hannah Young
Marketing and Administrative Assistant
Learn More About Hannah
Hannah Young is a 2020 graduate of Wheaton Academy. She went on to receive a B.A. in English and a minor in Graphic Design from Grove City College in 2024. Hannah found an intersection between her creative skills and written skills in marketing. She joined the Wheaton Academy Institute in June of 2024 and is so grateful for the opportunity to support the community of Wheaton Academy that had poured into her as a student. She is excited to see how God will continue to use the Wheaton Academy Insitute to grow His kingdom.
Faculty
Steve Bult
Head of School | Wheaton Academy, West Chicago, IL
Learn More About Steve
Steve Bult is an alumnus of Calvin College, where he received his B.A. He then received his M.A. from Governors State University. Steve began his career in education as a Social Studies teacher in California. He then went on to serve as a teacher, Assistant Principal, and Principal at Chicago Christian High School. During these same years, he was an Adjunct Professor at Trinity Christian College. In 2006, Steve accepted the position as Principal at Wheaton Academy in West Chicago, IL, and then transitioned into the role of Associate Head of School there in the fall of 2017. In August of 2018, Steve became the 39th Head of School at Wheaton Academy. With 29 years of experience in Christian education, Steve has used his spiritual gifts and passion to develop a Christ-centered learning community at Wheaton Academy. In doing so, Steve has collaborated with his colleagues to implement and embed the Professional Learning Community philosophy at the school. Also, his ability to communicate creatively and efficiently while integrating faith and learning has led to the development of the Living Curriculum Teacher Development Model (LCTDM™). The LCTDM™ is a teacher evaluation model combined with a system of strategic compensation for teachers.
Dawn earl
director of alumni relations | Wheaton academy, West Chicago, IL
Learn More About Dawn
Dawn Earl became Director of Alumni Relations at Wheaton Academy in 2006, bringing 16 years of public school experience and four years as a District 200 school board member. She holds a BA in elementary education and a master’s in curriculum and supervision. Previously, she homeschooled her children, who later attended Wheaton Academy. At Wheaton Academy, Dawn has launched initiatives to enhance alumni engagement, including an online platform, reorganizing the Alumni Association Board, and expanding the alumni awards program. She authored a history of the Academy and created an archival system. Dawn also oversees Homecoming
events to celebrate alumni. Dawn and her husband, Bob, have three adult children and nine grandchildren, further enriching their connection to Wheaton Academy.
matt davidson
superintendent | Timothy Christian Schools, Elmhurst, IL
Learn More About Matt
Matt Davidson has led Timothy Christian Schools (PreK-12) for 14 years, raising over $60 million for capital improvements and new initiatives. Under his leadership, the school earned a National Blue Ribbon of Excellence and achieved record enrollment. Davidson has completed six major capital campaigns on schedule, under budget, and without debt. With 31 years in Christian education, he has served as a teacher, coach, and administrator. Davidson also consults with private schools on fundraising and advancement. In 2023, he received the Meritorious Service award from the Illinois State Board of Education. He is a dedicated husband, father, and proud grandfather.
Kori Hockett
Principal | Wheaton Academy, West Chicago, IL
Learn More About Kori
Kori Hockett has been at Wheaton Academy for 24 years and began her career teaching social studies. She majored in political science at Wheaton College and went on to earn her master’s degree in teaching and her principal’s certificate from Aurora University. For ten years, Kori served as the Assistant Principal at Wheaton Academy and currently serves as the Principal. Her roles primarily focus on overseeing the day-to-day operations within the school, developing academic policies and curriculum, encouraging and guiding students and families, and encouraging faculty in professional development through observations, evaluations, and meetings. She has enjoyed the opportunity to lead and present on the Living Curriculum Development Model around the country to help leaders invest in teachers. Kori also enjoys learning from other leaders in Christian Education through her involvement with CESA and the Converge Conference.
Amy Hogan
Director of Admissions | Wheaton Academy, West Chicago, IL
Learn More About Amy
Currently serving as the Director of Admissions at Wheaton Academy. Formally trained as an Elementary education teacher, Amy spent the first part of her career in the classroom and leading a weekly Bible study as the Women’s Bible Study Coordinator at a local church. Now, she leads the Admissions process at Wheaton Academy—conducting tours, interviews, and enrollment onboarding for over 200 families annually.
Justin Horne
PS-8th Principal | Timothy Christian School, Elmhurst, IL
Learn More About Justin
Justin Horne is the PS-8th grade principal at Timothy Christian Schools in Elmhurst, Illinois. He has been an educator for 20 years. First as a 4th and 5th grade teacher and then an elementary principal. By God’s grace he’s been part of schools that have all won US Department of Education Blue Ribbons. Justin has Elementary Education and Psychology degrees from University of Massachusetts at Amherst and a Masters of Education from Loyola University Chicago. He earned his National Board for Professional Teaching Standards certification in 2009 and has spoken at various conferences.
Brittany Klenke
Vice Principal of Enrollment | Wheaton Academy, West Chicago, IL
Learn More About Brittany
Currently serving as the Vice Principal for Enrollment at Wheaton Academy. Upon graduating from Wheaton College, Brittany taught high school English and led various student life activities at Wheaton Academy for years. She transitioned to the Director of Admissions role before overseeing both Admissions and Marketing in her current role. She serves on the administrative leadership team, ensuring enrollment efforts both solidify and further the school’s mission.
Sally Strzalka
Parent Ambassador Coordinator | Wheaton Academy, West Chicago, IL
Learn More About Sally
Currently serving as the Parent Ambassador Coordinator at Wheaton Academy. Formally trained as a nurse, Sally spent her career serving patients and thinking on her feet. She transitioned into education as a school nurse and then as our coordinator. She continues to use her expertise of providing care within process as she pioneers new programs that provide solutions to core problems.
Brad Thornton
Vice Principal | Wheaton Academy, West Chicago, IL
Learn More About Brad
This year marks Brad’s 11th year at Wheaton Academy and 17th year in Christian education. Brad started at Wheaton Academy as an AP English teacher and head football coach and currently serves as a Vice Principal, supporting classroom instruction and learning through teacher observation and coaching. Brad helps oversee the curriculum review process, supervises Wheaton Academy’s student services department, and works closely with the English, Bible, and Fine Arts departments. Brad graduated from Wheaton College in 2007 with a BA in English and furthered his graduate work in 2012 with an MAT from the University of Memphis and a Masters in School Leadership from Baylor University in 2022. Brad cares deeply about improving student learning through investing in teachers and is excited to work alongside other Christian school leaders at the Best Practices Conference this year.
Angela Webster
Marketing Manager | Wheaton Academy, West Chicago, IL
Learn More About Angela
Currently serving as the Marketing Manager at Wheaton Academy. Her career began as a graphic designer at a design and marketing firm, helping clients communicate their needs with beautiful simplicity. She learned to code, build websites, and maximize digital marketing strategy. After supporting our marketing efforts for several years, Angela now leads our marketing department at Wheaton Academy—overseeing our digital, video, and print needs with intention and strategy.
Tony Woodall
Founder | Rootstock, Winfield, IL
Learn More About Tony
Like many companies, Rootstock was born out of passion and necessity. During his twenty years of delivering substantial bottom-line results in sales, marketing and brand strategy – Tony “kind of stunk” (his words) as a leader. He “wasn’t the worst leader of all time” (his words again) but after falling short yet again to get his teams to gel, he took a break from leading and went back to ‘“just selling”. Over time a nagging feeling that he had to get back to leading got the better of him. Humbled by his shortcomings, he sought to learn. Early in the journey he became utterly obsessed with all things leaders and team. He became thoroughly convinced that a key is the ability to navigate change with genuine leadership. He’s now dedicating his life and career to helping leaders and organizations thrive in high impact moments.
Tony’s Special Skills and Certifications:
- Routinely delivers that “AHA!” moment
- Distills the complex into vital simplicity
- Sees the best in people and gets them to believe in what he sees
- Transformational Public Speaker (inspires you to change, not just feel good about being inspired)
- Certified Leadership Coach with Discovery Coaching Services
- VAA with TTI Success Insights
- Trained practitioner in Human Centered Design through LUMA Institute
Rochelle Yang
Director of International Students | Wheaton Academy, West Chicago, IL
Learn More About Rochelle
Rochelle Yang has worked at Wheaton Academy for ten years and currently serves as the International Students Director at WA. She also teaches Mandarin Chinese. This is her second year serving as the program director; in her previous role, she provided support to International Parents overseas. Rochelle Yang holds an undergraduate degree from Sanda University in Shanghai and a Master’s in Math Education from the Illinois Institute of Technology.
Rochelle Yang
Director of International Students | Wheaton Academy, West Chicago, IL
Learn More About Rochelle
Rochelle Yang has worked at Wheaton Academy for ten years and currently serves as the International Students Director at WA. She also teaches Mandarin Chinese. This is her second year serving as the program director; in her previous role, she provided support to International Parents overseas. Rochelle Yang holds an undergraduate degree from Sanda University in Shanghai and a Master’s in Math Education from the Illinois Institute of Technology.
Tony Woodall
Founder | Rootstock, Winfield, IL
Learn More About Tony
Like many companies, Rootstock was born out of passion and necessity. During his twenty years of delivering substantial bottom-line results in sales, marketing and brand strategy – Tony “kind of stunk” (his words) as a leader. He “wasn’t the worst leader of all time” (his words again) but after falling short yet again to get his teams to gel, he took a break from leading and went back to ‘“just selling”. Over time a nagging feeling that he had to get back to leading got the better of him. Humbled by his shortcomings, he sought to learn. Early in the journey he became utterly obsessed with all things leaders and team. He became thoroughly convinced that a key is the ability to navigate change with genuine leadership. He’s now dedicating his life and career to helping leaders and organizations thrive in high impact moments.
Tony’s Special Skills and Certifications:
- Routinely delivers that “AHA!” moment
- Distills the complex into vital simplicity
- Sees the best in people and gets them to believe in what he sees
- Transformational Public Speaker (inspires you to change, not just feel good about being inspired)
- Certified Leadership Coach with Discovery Coaching Services
- VAA with TTI Success Insights
- Trained practitioner in Human Centered Design through LUMA Institute
Laura Groenewold
Director of Educational Support | Timothy Christian School, Elmhurst, IL
Learn More About Laura
I graduated from Trinity Christian College in 2011 with a double major in Special Education and Elementary Education. While I attended Trinity, I was one of the Sign Language Club leaders, ASCD student chapter leaders, on the student advisory committee, and on the General Education Committee. I have had several different educational experiences, thoroughly enjoying all, especially when I was teaching in middle school.
Upon graduation, God called my husband and me to teach in a high-needs school district in Freeport, IL. My first two years in Freeport, I was a resource room teacher for Lincoln-Douglas Elementary School. After my first year teaching there, I received the 2013 Illinois Association of Colleges for Teacher Education “Outstanding Beginning Teacher” award. During the summer of 2013, our school district decided to create a new curriculum based on the Common Core Standards. I jumped at the chance to have an influential role in what I would be teaching. I co-created the first grade ELA curriculum for our school district (six elementary schools, 17 first grade teachers use the units). This, of course, led me to wanting to teach first grade; so, after teaching as a resource room teacher for two years, I switched to teaching language arts to all of the first grade students at Lincoln-Douglas. We dedicated our time and hearts to Freeport for four years, but felt the calling to return to our families in the Chicago suburbs. From 2015-2017 I taught Language Arts in sixth grade at Timothy, and I am excited for the next part of my teaching journey!