Welcome Mr. Hugo Chong as Head of School

Mr. Chong has dedicated over thirty years to the field of education, beginning his career as an English as a Second Language (ESL) instructor. His early professional endeavors include significant tenures at the Berlitz Academy, also known as the Benedict School of Languages locally, where he focused on enhancing the language skills of professionals across various industries.

Expanding his impact, Mr. Chong took on a pivotal role at the US Binational Center in Ecuador, overseeing the curriculum design department. His leadership in adopting the communicative approach revolutionized language instruction at the center, integrating real-life materials that significantly enriched the learning experience. His efforts were pivotal in elevating the quality of both the speaking and writing courses, and he played a crucial role in training educators to implement these innovative teaching methodologies effectively.

Mr. Chong continued to advance his career in education at Nuevo Mundo, a renowned Catholic bilingual school, where he served as the head of the foreign language department for over a decade. His expertise was instrumental in mentoring and supervising the faculty, significantly enhancing the school's language education offerings.

In 1994, Mr. Chong joined the founding team of Torremar School, a Catholic school in Ecuador, taking on the role of Head of Secondary Education. During his 14-year tenure, he was also responsible for the development and implementation of a comprehensive bilingual program that included American Literature, History, and Science, in addition to advanced ESL courses.

Mr. Chong also leveraged his language expertise in the corporate sector, serving as a foreign language consultant and facilitator to top management in subsidiaries of 3M and Imation, as well as to various local firms in Ecuador, including banks and export manufacturing companies. His insights were integral to enhancing communication and business operations across diverse industries.

Additionally, Mr. Chong contributed to higher education as a professor at a local university in Ecuador, where he taught principles of marketing and foreign language trade, using English as the primary language of instruction.

Later, Mr. Chong accepted a position within the North Carolina School System, where he furthered his educational influence as a faculty member and sponsor of cultural clubs. In 2009, he co-founded a Foreign Language Academy, marking another milestone in his career dedicated to language education excellence.

His administrative capabilities were recognized at Northridge Preparatory School, where he served in various capacities, including Head of High School, Assistant Headmaster, and Director of both the International Program and Business Operations.

On a personal note, Mr. Chong and his wife, Maria Eugenia, are the parents of three daughters, two of whom are graduates of the Willows Academy in Chicagoland, where his youngest daughter is also currently enrolled in the Class of 2027. The Chong family are practicing, devout Catholics, actively engaged in their community.

Mr. Chong is profoundly enthusiastic about his forthcoming role at the Chesterton Academy of The Holy Family. He eagerly anticipates the opportunity to engage with the school’s faculty and administrators, confident that this collaboration will enhance mutual growth and learning. Mr. Chong is deeply grateful for the confidence deposited in him by the school board of directors and appreciates their support. Chesterton Academy represents a unique and compelling opportunity, and Mr. Chong is committed to contributing positively to its trajectory of excellence in education and Catholic formation. He is truly honored to join such a prestigious institution and looks forward to contributing to and supporting the excellent and dedicated work of the faculty and administration to advance the academy to further success.

Mr. Chong is particularly excited to assist all students in their formation, aiming to get to know each of them personally and contribute to the greater community of the school. He is eager to strengthen the connections of families with Chesterton Academy and looks forward to meeting all the members of the community and working hand in hand with the students and families, committed to fostering a collaborative and thriving educational environment at Chesterton Academy of The Holy Family.