Johnston joins Sussex Academy as middle school dean

To optimize and streamline operations, Sussex Academy has reorganized its administrative structure and hired additional leaders to enhance services for students and families.

Sussex Academy is a K-12 public charter school led by Head of School Kyle Bentley, who directs all academics, student services, communications and business operations systemwide, a role akin to a superintendent in a traditional public school.

Previously, an elementary school dean managed kindergarten through fifth grades, and a secondary school dean oversaw sixth through 12th grades.

To improve communication and workflow, the secondary school dean position held by Lauren Hvorecny has been divided into two positions: dean of high school and dean of middle school. Hvorecny has assumed the high school dean role and Rachael Johnston has been hired as dean of middle school.

Johnston comes to Sussex Academy from the Cape Henlopen School District, where she most recently served as special education coordinator and also taught special education for students in grades six to eight. She began her career as a special education teacher in New Jersey.

“I’m truly excited to join Sussex Academy students and staff on their educational journey,” Johnston said.

Johnston received her bachelor’s degree in elementary and special education from St. Joseph’s University and her master’s degree in special education from the College of New Jersey. She also holds certifications in educational leadership and is currently pursuing a doctorate in organizational leadership at Wilmington University.

Previously the director of secondary student services and operations, Dr. Sherry MacBury has been promoted to chief of student services and will oversee athletics, behavior, counseling, nursing, nutrition, technology, transportation and school safety for K-12 students.

Brittany Burslem has also been promoted from financial analyst to full-time business office manager, responsible for directing the school’s financial operations. Burslem previously served as treasurer for the Sussex Academy executive board, and she attended Sussex Academy as a middle school student in 2000. She earned her bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance at Wilmington University, and she has held various roles in public accounting and for-profit industries, and in nonprofit accounting.

Sussex Academy’s mission is to foster academic achievement and social responsibility in a small-school environment where students participate in a highly accelerated college preparatory program that prepares them for the technological and global mindedness needed for the 21st century, and instills ethical conduct and service to others in their day-to-day lives.