Dr. Thomas Kucharski was chosen by GBS representatives to succeed Sue Levine-Kelley as the English Department’s Instructional Supervisor (I.S.) on Monday, April 13.
Kucharski, who will start at the beginning of the 2015-16 school year, is coming to GBS with nearly 30 years of experience in education and recognizes what he must do to ease the department’s transition.
“An I.S., especially one coming from outside of the school district, must first be a good listener, ready to learn and appreciate the uniqueness of the community,” Kucharski said. “Just as important, the I.S. must also be able to support both individual and institutional growth.”
According to Kucharski, he has taught English classes at Loyola Academy and New Trier High School and also has experience managing large groups of students and teachers.
Kucharski was inspired to apply for the I.S. position in hopes to again work in the Chicagoland area in a community and position that sparks his interest. He is excited to transition to somewhere different than his current school.
“At this stage of my career, the opportunity to work with other teachers in the context of such a great curriculum and such a vibrant community is a dream come true,” Kucharski said.
According to Kucharski, throughout his three interviews he was warmly welcomed into South’s community. He met teachers and administrators along the way that made him feel as if he already belonged.
“Because of the extraordinary welcome, I did not experience much of the intimidation one usually feels when entering a new place for an intense conversation,” Kucharski said.
Kucharski has educated himself on South’s environment, and looks forward to being a part of the community.
“I am most excited about the opportunity to work with a truly excellent faculty, administration and student body,” Kucharski said. “I have heard and read wonderful things about GBS, and everyone I have met so far has been positive, gracious and thoughtful.”
