Principal Professors

of

Cortona Academy

Meet the Director, Founder, and Lead Professor of Cortona Academy

“I remain at Cortona Academy because our program literally saves students’ educations and lives. Our revolutionary approach has altered  American education.  We are all leaders in our respective fields and are a positive, supportive force in each of our student’s lives. My staff is brilliant, kind, and fighters for ALL our students. I cannot wait to get to work each day to be with this amazing, courageous dedicated staff.”

Sharon Strauchs

Cortona Academy

About Sharon Strauchs

Teaching and Administrating at Cortona Academy for 30 Years!

Background:  

  • B.A.–Carnegie-Mellon University
  • M.Ed.–George Mason University
  • Ph.D.–Credits towards Ph.D., ongoing

Subjects Taught:

  • All Language Arts
  • Classical-Level Literature
  • Psychology
  • Sociology
  • Writing
  • SAT Prep

Meet Our

Professors

“Teaching at Cortona provides the best way to teach, with the best  teachers.”

Years on staff: 18

Background:

  • B.A. (Chemistry and Mathematics)
  • M.A. (Philosophy)
  • Ph.D. (Philosophy)

Subjects taught, present and past:

  • Math
  • General Science
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
  • Philosophy

“I teach here because I feel I can truly make a difference in the lives of my students and foster a relationship that will help them become well-rounded humans.”

Years on staff: 14

Background:

  •  B.A. (History)
  • B.A. (Art History)
  • M.A. (European History)
  • Ph. D. (Candidate-British Culture & History)

Subjects taught, present and past:

  • US History
  • Geography
  • World History
  • Social Civics
  • Art History

 “I teach here because I love teaching math and at this Academy the environment is friendly and congenial.”

Years on staff: 7

Background:         

  • M.S.    (Mathematics)
  • Ph.D.  (Doctorate in Mathematics)
  • M.St.  (Masters in Statistics)
  • M.Ed. (Masters in Education)
  • M.B.A.(Masters in Business Administration)

What do I teach: 

  • All Mathematics Grade 7 through Calculus A/B & B//C and Statistics

“I am the newest member of the Cortona staff. I was immediately impressed with the ability at this academy to stay open (due mostly to their small size and compliance with mitigation protocols) during the pandemic and their uncompromising view that students should not be allowed to fall behind. Cortona Academy provides a safe, personalized, and supportive learning environment in which students can thrive and set their sights on higher education.”

Years on staff: 2nd year

Background:

  • B. S. (Biological Science)
  • M.Ed. (George Mason University–in progress)

Subjects taught, present and past:

  • General Science
  • Earth Science
  • Biology
  • Guitar

 “I play my part in an Institution making a difference in education.”

Years on staff: 16

Background:

  •  M. S. (Mathematics)

  • Ph. D. (Physics)

Subjects taught, present and past:

  • Physics
  • Math
  • SAT Prep (SSAT/PSAT)
  • TJ Prep