Zachary Korth

Zachary Korth is the dedicated and equity-driven principal of Morton Elementary School in Chicago. With a passion for technology, innovation, and instructional excellence, he is committed to building capacity among educators, increasing rigor in Morton's traditional program, and expanding access to gifted education for Black and Brown students. His leadership is rooted in breaking down systemic barriers and fostering an inclusive school culture that ensures all students have the opportunity to excel. Since stepping into his role at Morton, Principal Korth has prioritized high-quality, differentiated, and standards-based instruction. Through strategic professional development, instructional leadership, and community partnerships, he has worked to enhance teaching practices and elevate student achievement. Under his leadership, Morton has demonstrated continuous improvement, increasing its ISBE designation and seeing notable gains in math proficiency, particularly among historically underserved student groups. A firm believer in distributive leadership, Korth empowers his staff through collaborative decision-making, instructional coaching, and data-driven initiatives. His focus on student agency and social-emotional learning ensures that students are not only academically prepared but also equipped with the confidence and skills to navigate their educational journeys successfully. Beyond his work at Morton, Korth is deeply engaged in advancing urban education. He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Urban Education at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), where he is further developing his expertise in school leadership, equity, and systemic change. His research and practice center on expanding access to advanced academic opportunities and reimagining education to better serve marginalized communities. Through his innovative, equity-centered approach, Zachary Korth continues to drive transformative change, ensuring that Morton Elementary remains a place where all students—regardless of background—thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.