Administration

We Are Thornton — Home of the Wildcats!
At Thornton Township High School, we believe pride is something you build. We stand by a simple truth: Wildcat Pride is Built, Not Given. It's earned in the classroom, on the field, and in the everyday effort of students and staff who refuse to settle for less than their best.
Everything we do is anchored in one commitment: every student should leave this building feeling seen, heard, and challenged to become the best version of themselves. We want our students to be known—by name, by strength, by dream—and to be pushed toward a future they can be proud of.
That future is built by a dedicated team of educators who take their craft seriously. Our teachers pursue ongoing professional development so that the instruction and curriculum in front of your child reflect the very best of what our profession has to offer. When our staff keeps growing, our students keep growing.
Thornton also carries a legacy that extends far beyond our walls. Our Wildcat athletic tradition builds discipline, teamwork, and school spirit, while the generous support of the Thornton Alumni Legacy Fund—founded by graduates who never stopped believing in this school—continues to strengthen the academic and extracurricular opportunities available to our students. Ours is a community that takes care of its own.
As I begin my tenure as Principal, I do so with deep respect for this school's history and real excitement for what we will build together. This work cannot be done by the school alone. I invite our families to be active partners—to attend events, ask questions, share what you're seeing at home, and tell us when we can do better. Together, under the banner of one team and one mission, we will make sure every Wildcat has the chance to reach their fullest potential.

Mrs. Charissa Berrini
Assistant Principal - Curriculum
Email: berrini.charissa@district205.net
Phone: 708-225-4103
I am eager and excited to be the Assistant Principal of Curriculum and Instruction at Thornton Township High School. I have experience as a Division Leader of Mathematics and Business for Thornridge High School, Outlook Academy, and Peace Center. While serving as an instructional leader of mathematics and business, I focused on data-driven instruction through common formative assessments to increase student performance on state assessments. I have created systems to increase student performance on the math section of the SAT and initiated curriculum changes throughout the district that have higher than expected growth in multiple grade levels in both math and reading.
Prior to an administrative role, I spent many years in the classroom as a mathematics teacher, MTSS Coordinator, and Advanced Placement Coordinator at Thornton Township District 205. I hold a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mathematics Education from Saint Xavier University; Administrative Leadership from Governors State University with a Master of Arts Degree and I am currently enrolled at Northern Illinois University seeking an Ed.S. in Educational Administration Superintendent Preparation Program into an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies.

Ms. Maria Gonzalez
Assistant Principal - Building and Grounds
Email: gonzalez.maria@district205.net
Phone: 708-225-4102
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Mr. Dontrell Jackson
Assistant Principal - Athletics
Email: jackson.dontrell@district205.net
Phone: 708-225-4122

Greetings from Wildcat Country,
I am thrilled to be back serving as the Interim Assistant Principal at Thornton Township High School. With more than 40 years in education, I remain just as passionate about serving students, families, and staff as I was on my very first day in the profession.
Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of serving in a variety of roles, including classroom teacher, coach, club sponsor, Dean of Students, and Assistant Principal. My administrative experience includes overseeing Athletics, School Safety and Security, Building Operations, Transportation, Professional Development, English Learner (ELL) Programs, Curriculum and Instruction, Student Support Services, and Data & Accountability. These diverse experiences have provided me with a comprehensive understanding of school leadership and a deep appreciation for the many factors that contribute to student success.
I have proudly been part of Wildcat Country for more than 30 years, and it has been an honor to serve this exceptional school community. Each school year brings new opportunities, and I begin every year with the same excitement and enthusiasm as if it were my first. I look forward to partnering with our dedicated staff, students, families, and community as we continue to foster academic excellence, personal growth, and a culture where every student feels valued and supported.
My leadership philosophy is centered on building meaningful relationships, maintaining high expectations, and creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive. I believe that when educators, families, and the community work together, we create the conditions for students to reach their fullest potential—academically, socially, and emotionally.
When I am not at school, I enjoy spending quality time with my family and supporting activities that strengthen our community.
I am excited about the year ahead and look forward to celebrating the growth, achievements, and successes of our students and staff. Together, we will continue building on the proud tradition of excellence in Wildcat Country.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can be of assistance. I look forward to partnering with you to make this an outstanding school year.

Ms. Kenya Underwood
Assistant Principal - Special Ed
Email: underwood.kenya@district205.net
Phone: 708-225-4104

