Christopher Horne was appointed at a special legislative meeting in late July to become the newest principal of Pittsburgh Milliones 6-12. Nestled in Sugar Top, UPrep, as it’s called, is home to approximately 600 students.
But, it’s Horne’s deep ties to the community and knowledge of the students that made it an easy decision to place him back at the Hill District school after a five year leave from the school district.
Horne previously served as associate principal of Penn Hills High School. During his tenure in Penn Hills, Horne said the school district helped him “become a better instructional leader” by preparing him through experiences in building operations, academics and school culture.
Prior to joining Penn Hills High School, Horne served the Pittsburgh Public Schools as a Mathematics Teacher (2000-2009) and a Mathematics Curriculum Coach (2009-10) at Schenley High School, and at Pittsburgh Milliones 6-12.
In 2009, Horne was among the original team of teachers that opened Pittsburgh Milliones 6-12. Serving as the Youth Pastor of Macedonia Church in the Hill District from 2005-2010, Horne has become a familiar face to many children and families of the Hill District.
“It’s an honor and privilege to have been selected to lead the students in the Hill District. My heart is in the Hill and coming back to the community that my family is from, where I began my teaching career and, now to lead the school where I once was a founding teacher is a dream come true.”
Horne has three main goals as principal: “realizing our vision” by creating a positive learning environment that holds students and staff to high expectations for teaching and learning; “staying committed to our mission” by trusting the process, utilizing the team and focusing on what he can control; and “focusing on our core values of respect, accountability and performance” with all students, staff, families, community and school partners.
Additionally, Horne plans to focus on effectively implementing the school’s Collective Impact Process, transforming school and community culture, and empowering staff and students to lead.
“The Collective Impact Process brings together school, staff, family and the community with the focus on solving an issue and establishing clear communication. Our goal is that through this collaborative process, there will be a culture shift that leads to academic success,” he said.
The position opened when former principal Derrick Hardy resigned as of July 31. His plans are not known. He has moved out of the city a spokesperson for the school district said.
The Board additionally approved the appointment of Timothy Freeman as Director at Pittsburgh Milliones 6-12. As Director, Freeman will work collaboratively with the school’s principal to execute all aspects of school management and leadership. In his most recent post, Freeman was principal at the STEAM Academy of Warren, Ohio.
“Our new director Tim Freeman is a product of the Hill District also and he shares my sentiments about education. Together, we are committed to transforming the way our students think about school/education and the great opportunities that await them,“ said Horne.
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