School Leader Spotlight: Andrew Hart on Instilling a Culture of High Expectations

Andrew Hart, Head of The Oaks Academy in Indianapolis, talks about his biggest challenge: ensuring a culture of high expectations among a demographic that is not used to people believing in their abilities. The school's mantra is every child is capable of the duty and delight of learning, and Hart seeks to maintain this culture on a daily basis. Hart says that when a parent is committed to his or her child's education, you can almost ensure the student's success. Hence the only prereq to enter the school is a parent's commitment. In addition to parent involvement, quality teachers who inspire children and parents are very important. Oaks seeks to serve as a catalyst for urban renewal, a high performing school that draws people back into cities. Hart is presently the Head of School at The Oaks Academy in Indianapolis where he has served for ten years. After receiving his Bachelor of Arts from Washington & Lee University and his Master of Business Administration from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, he worked as a legislative assistant in Washington, DC for Rep. Frank R. Wolf. Prior to The Oaks Academy, Hart was a visiting instructor at the University of Bucharest, Romania, served as a management consultant for Price Waterhouse, and was a business development manager for Eli Lilly and Co. He is a member of the Independent School Association of Central States, and is a member of Redeemer Presbyterian Church.