At Everest Academy, we are blessed to have educators who lead not only with their minds but with their hearts. One of these outstanding leaders is Mr. Glenn Purpura, our current Dean of Formation and 7th Grade Catholic Formation teacher. Since joining the Everest community in 2021, Mr. Purpura has brought with him a wealth of experience, a deep commitment to faith-based education, and a true passion for forming young Christian leaders.
Mr. Purpura’s educational journey began with a Bachelor of Arts in Physical Education from George Williams College. His drive to lead and support students more deeply led him to pursue a Master of Education in Supervision and Administration from National-Louis University. Always a student himself, Mr. Purpura is also a certified trainer in Brain-Based Learning through Jensen Learning—training that emphasizes how students learn best by aligning teaching methods with the brain’s natural learning systems.
Before stepping into his role at Everest Academy, Mr. Purpura built an impressive resume in both public and Catholic education. He began his teaching career in Schiller Park School District, where he taught Elementary Physical Education for nineteen years and served as Middle School Principal for five years. He continued his leadership as Principal at River Trails Middle School in Mount Prospect for three years.
In 2008, Mr. Purpura answered a vocational calling to serve in Catholic education. Over the next thirteen years, he served as Principal and teacher of Logic at several Catholic schools, including St. Alexander in Villa Park, St. Francis of Rome in Cicero, and Kingswood Academy in Darien. This shift was more than professional—it was deeply personal. His love for teaching and forming children in the image of Christ fueled his dedication to Catholic education.
Now at Everest Academy, Mr. Purpura’s role as Dean of Formation allows him to help shape the spiritual, intellectual, apostolic, and human development of every student. He is deeply invested in the mission of forming young people to become authentic Christian leaders, and his work reflects that mission daily. Whether he’s leading a lesson in Catholic Formation or mentoring a student through personal growth, Mr. Purpura is focused on helping each child live a life centered in Christ.
Mr. Purpura’s career is a testament to lifelong learning, faithful leadership, and the power of education rooted in purpose. We are proud to have him as part of our Everest family and are grateful for the example he sets for our students, faculty, and broader school community.