Schaumburg High School is proud to announce Mr. Tom Mocon as the new principal. He will be the sixth principal to lead the institution, succeeding Mr. Brian Harlen. Mr. Mocon and his family are excited about about the opportunity and possibilities.
Mr. Mocon currently serves as the assistant principal at Hoffman Estates High School, bringing with him valuable administrative experience that will contribute to his new role. He has served as a Dean and Assistant Principal for four years, worked as an Assistant Principal at Conant High School for three years, and then moved to Hoffman Estates High School, where he spent five years as an Administrator and also took on the role of Activities Director. He began his career as an English Language (EL) and Social Studies teacher, teaching for six years before transitioning into leadership roles.
Mr. Mocon is also very excited to join Schaumburg High School and continue the school’s strong traditions and programs, with a focus on enhancing the student experience. His passion for school leadership has been influenced by past leaders, who allowed him to work with them rather than for them, shaping his collaborative and inclusive leadership approach. He believes that no one individual has all the answers and that collective efforts bring the best results, fostering a strong learning environment. He values the opportunity to build relationships with new people and communities while leveraging his past leadership experience.
“As soon as I found out that this was a possibility… that there was a position opening up, it took me seconds to decide that I wanted to be considered for it because of all the great things I have heard about the reputation of Schaumburg High School… an incredible place to be, very special,” Mr. Mocon said.
Student voice is a key priority for Mr. Mocon. He regularly engages with students, including meeting with the Principal’s Advisory Board, to hear directly from them about what is working and what needs improvement. He plans to continue engaging with students to gather input and ensure that decisions are made in their best interest.
Mr. Mocon values student involvement in school events and activities, noting that these experiences are critical to the overall high school experience. He mentioned the school’s 50th anniversary celebration, which featured events such as a bonfire, fireworks, homecoming, and prom on a boat, as an example of how traditions help shape students’ memories.
His leadership style suggests that he will focus on positive behavior reinforcement, collaboration, and a student-centered approach to discipline. His goal is to create a fair and supportive system that encourages growth, accountability, and respect among students.
To be a successful principal at SHS, several qualities are essential, including strong leadership skills, effective communication with staff, parents, and students, a student-centered approach, problem-solving abilities, instructional leadership, and organizational skills.
“I want to be there at your graduation and shake your hand with certainty that you had a great experience,” he added.
Mr. Mocon’s vision for SHS can be summed up simply: “My goal is for you, from the moment you walk into the building as a freshman to the moment you graduate, to have the best experience possible. It’s not just about time in class—your academic time is crucial, and you should be engaged, actively learning, and getting everything you need to develop the skills to be your best self when you graduate. But beyond academics, it’s also about interactions in the hallways, participation in activities, and involvement in athletics—these are all critically important to the high school experience.”
As Mr. Mocon steps into his new role, the SHS community looks forward to the positive changes and growth his leadership will bring. With his wealth of experience and dedication to education, the school is excited for what lies ahead.