Administration

Thornton Fractional North is comprised of the following administrators. This 5-member leadership team implements the District 215 curriculum and policies.

Brian Rucinski, TF North Principal

Brian Rucinski started his teaching career at East Chicago Central High School where he taught both Algebra and Geometry, and coached Basketball and Golf. Brian was a member of the Principal Advisory Team and earned Teacher of the Year recognition. In 2002, Brian was hired as a math teacher here at Thornton Fractional North. During his teaching tenure, he taught Algebra, Geometry, and Algebra II while again coaching basketball and golf. In 2012, the Illinois State Board of Education presented him an award of Meritorious Service for his Outstanding Contributions to Illinois Education. He also led the Homework Center program, increasing attendance by over 200%. During the 2012-2013, Brian transitioned into the role of Assistant Principal of Building Control. During his time in that position, he provided a safe environment for students while creating opportunities to grow academically. He reduced suspensions by 78% while celebrating student successes. Brian obtained a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education Mathematics from Indiana University, and holds a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Olivet Nazarene University as well as a master’s in Educational Leadership from Concordia University. He has recently completed coursework to become a Chief School Business Official.

Phone: (708) 585-1001

Email: brucinski@tfd215.org

Lauren Johnson, Assistant Principal of Building Control

Lauren Johnson is the Assistant Principal for Building Control. She has been an educator for over twenty years, with six years of service in District 215, serving as Assistant Principal of Building Control at the T.F Centers. Before coming to 215, she served as a middle school teacher and administrator in the Dallas Fort Worth area for many years. She comes with a vast range of experience and a track record of dedication to schools and community. Mrs. Johnson holds two Masters Degrees from the University of Illinois at Chicago and the University of North Texas. Her passion is working with students by means of restorative practices to help them improve their behavior and decision making.

Phone: (708) 585-1004
Email: ljohnson2@tfd215.org

Christin Passarelli, Assistant Principal of Pupil Personnel Services

Christin Passarelli became the Assistant Principal of Pupil Personnel Services in 2022. In 2020, Christin began working at the Center campuses as the Dean. While there, she became the co-facilitator of the White Allyship group and developed a student leadership team.

From 2009-2020, she was an English teacher at TF North High School. In addition to teaching at TF North, she was the Speech, Group Interpretation, Newspaper, and Freshman Board sponsor and coached soccer and badminton. She also participated in curriculum development and school improvement committees, developed a program for at-risk freshman students, and helped create an orientation for freshmen. Christin began her career as a paraprofessional at TF South.

Christin obtained a bachelor’s degree in Public Relations from Illinois State University, a degree in English Education at Trinity Christian College, a Master’s in School and Community Counseling from St. Xavier University, and a Master’s in Principal Preparation from Concordia University.

Phone: (708) 585-1003
Email: cpassarelli@tfd215.org

Assistant Principal for Instruction

Phone: (708) 585-1002

Email: mwebb @tfd215.org

DeVale Stubbs, Athletic Director

Previous Employment:

School Counselor, Rich East High School
Football and Basketball Coach, Rich East High School
Thespian Club Sponsor and Male Mentorship Group Sponsor, Rich East High School
Football Coach and Drama Sponsor, TF North High School

Credentials:

Educational Specialist Degree in Administration & Supervision, National Louis University
Master's Degree in School Counseling, Lewis University
Bachelor's Degree, Business Administration, Illinois Wesleyan University

Phone: (708) 585-1027
Email: dstubbs@tfd215.org