Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy is excited to announce that Chris Wright will be our new Executive Director. Mr. Wright is a former United States Air Force Officer with 20 years of service to the military. He spent most of his career in operations and education. He has an extensive background in teaching and instruction, curriculum development, mentoring and served twice as a Head of School. During his Head of School positions, Mr. Wright was responsible for managing over $30M in assets and operating a $3.65M budget. More importantly, he led 81 staff members to teach over 600 students in subjects such as radio wave theory, advanced mathematics, government policy, leadership and management, and advanced physical activities. Most recently, Mr. Wright served as an Assistant Headmaster, Athletic Director, Dean of Students, and Teacher for a start-up classical academy in Denver, Colorado.
Mr. Wright earned his Bachelor's in Public Administration from Samford University and his Master's in Education specializing in Teaching and Instruction from Trident University in California. Mr. Wright is an expert in organizational leadership, effective communications, and team-building by establishing trust and instilling discipline. He brings a wealth of athletic experience as a former Division I-AA football player and coach of high school football, wrestling, and lacrosse in Virginia, Colorado, Georgia, Florida, and Alabama.
Chris is married to Karen Wright, and they have three boys. Elijah Wright (16), Jaxson (12), and Lagassee (12) have grown up in classical education and love to play football and lacrosse. Karen has over 20 years' experience in coaching and athletics at schools such as Michigan State, University of Colorado, Hillsdale College, and Trinity University.
"I am deeply honored to accept this position and am excited to get to work! TJ is an exceptional school with outstanding leadership, staff, and faculty. My family is excited to get back to North Carolina, and I look forward to meeting everyone over the next few months. Thank you, and Go Gryphons!"
Chair of the Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy Board of Trustees, Ray Maxwell, shares, “We are thrilled to have Mr. Wright join our team at TJ and look forward to his contributions. He brings talent and energy to our school, and his classical education background fits well with our TJ mission. It is truly an exciting time at TJ with our new high school, ball fields, and new Executive Director.”