Building Administration
Morton West Administrators
At Morton West High School, our mission is to create a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for all students, staff, and educators. Meet the dedicated Morton West administrative team—committed to delivering the highest quality education and helping every student succeed. Together, they lead with purpose, foster a culture of respect and achievement, and work in partnership with families and the community to ensure student growth. Get to know the leaders who make Morton West a place where students thrive.
Dr. Jorge Sanchez
Morton West Principal
I am honored to serve as the Principal of Morton West High School. My journey in education began at Morton East High School as a paraprofessional, where I discovered my passion for working with students and the lasting impact educators can have on young people's lives.
Over the years, I've held leadership roles in other school districts including Department Chair, Dean, Assistant Principal, and Principal.
This opportunity is especially meaningful because it brings me back to the community where I grew up and where my career in education began. Returning to Morton is more than a professional milestone, it's personal. This community helped shape who I am, and I am grateful for the chance to give back to a place that has given so much to me.
I look forward to working alongside our students, staff, families, and community partners to build on Morton West's strong tradition of excellence. It is a privilege to serve this community, and I am committed to ensuring that EVERY student succeeds.
Degrees and Certifications
- Superintendent Endorsement –Illinois State University
- Ph.D. - Educational Administration - Illinois State University
- M.Ed. - Educational Leadership - American College of Education
- M.B.A. - Accounting & Marketing - Northeastern Illinois University
- M.Ed. - Higher Education Leadership - Northeastern Illinois University
- M.A.T. - Business Education - Chicago State University
- B.S. - Accounting & Marketing - DePaul University
Nicholas Battaglia
Assistant Principal of Operations
- Bachelor's of Science in Biology-Benedictine University
- Secondary Education Licensure
- Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction-National Louis University
- Master of Arts in School Leadership-Concordia University
Amanda Torres
Assistant Principal of Instruction
I am excited to be entering my seventh year at Morton West! I have had the pleasure of assuming the role of Assistant Principal of Instruction. I am honored to have the opportunity to serve the students of District 201 in this new position. I will continue to collaborate with teachers to strengthen, not only our academic curriculum, but our social-emotional learning as well.
Prior to becoming Assistant Principal, I served as the Lead Dean of Students at Morton West. I am proud of my time in the Deans' Office and cherish the times I spent guiding our students towards a life of citizenship and happiness. During my 16 years in education, I have strived to help each student become a successful contributor to their community.
I am looking forward to another great year in District 201!
- Bachelors of Science in Mathematics and Secondary Education from Upper Iowa University
- Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Dustin Heap
Assistant Principal for the Freshman Academy & Student Activities
I am honored and excited to begin my third year as Assistant Principal of the Freshman Academy at Morton West! I am looking forward to building relationships with students, staff, and the entire community of Morton West. I believe that students are most successful when they are truly a part of the school community. I want to encourage every student to get involved, whether that is in clubs, sports, or other opportunities.
Prior to joining Morton West, I spent the last 8 years teaching social studies. I also coached football, wrestling, and track. I believe in constantly pushing oneself to improve their knowledge and skills and want to empower students to do the same. I look forward to being a part of the Morton West family. GO MUSTANGS!
- Bachelor of Arts in History and Secondary Education, Southern Illinois University Carbondale
- Master of Arts in Educational Administration, University of St. Francis, Joliet
- Master of Science in Public Administration, Southern Illinois University Carbondale
Alex Karr
Lead Dean of Students
I am excited to begin my administrative career as the Dean of Students for the freshmen class at Morton West High School. It’s an honor to serve the students, families, and staff of District 201 in this new role. I am looking forward to building relationships with students and families and contributing to a positive school culture where all students feel valued.
Previously, I was an English teacher at Marist High School for 11 years, where I also served as the boys’ varsity tennis coach. I earned my Bachelor of Arts degree in English Education from Illinois State University and my Master of Arts in Educational Administration from Governors State University. I am eager to help our freshmen start their high school careers with confidence, support, and a sense of belonging that they will carry with them throughout the next four years at Morton West.
Degrees and Certifications
- Illinois State University – B.A. in English Education
- Governors State University – M. A. in Educational Administration
McKenna Powers
Dean of Students
I graduated from the University of Iowa in 2020 with a bachelor’s degree that ignited my passion for education and student development. Over the past several years, I’ve dedicated myself to creating supportive and engaging learning environments, both inside and outside the classroom. In the spring of 2025, I earned my Master’s in Principal Preparation, further equipping me with the leadership skills and vision to support students and staff on a broader level.
This school year, I’m proud to begin my role as a Dean at Morton West High School. I’m excited to be part of a school community that values diversity, academic excellence, and student empowerment. My goal is to work collaboratively with teachers, families, and students to ensure that every student at Morton West feels supported, challenged, and prepared for their future. I’m committed to building strong relationships, promoting a positive school culture, and helping all students reach their full potential.
Degrees and Certifications
- B.A Social Studies Education at the University of Iowa
- B.A History at the University of Iowa
- M. Ed Principal Preparation at Concordia University Chicago
Xiomara Bustamante
Dean of Students
I’m thrilled to serve as Dean of Students at Morton West! With almost 20 years in education, I’m honored to serve our students, staff, and families, and I’m committed to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive school environment where every Mustang can succeed.
Before this role, I served as the Biliteracy Instructional Coach and taught Spanish and English Learners (EL) here at Morton West. As a bilingual educator and instructional leader, I’m passionate about supporting diverse learners, building strong relationships, and working together to ensure every student feels valued and empowered.
I look forward to an amazing year ahead in District 201!
Degrees and Certifications
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M.Ed. Educational Leadership – North Central College
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M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction – National Louis University
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B.A. in Secondary Education, Spanish – Northeastern Illinois University
Jennifer Pufpaf
Special Education Coordinator
I am honored to serve as Special Education Coordinator at Morton West High School. I have had the pleasure of being an administrator at Morton West High School since 2016.
I started my educational career in January 2008 as a Special Education teacher and began my administrative career in 2016 as a Dean of Students at Morton West. In my eight years of teaching, I worked with students ranging from five to twenty-one years old with a variety of disabilities in both the public and therapeutic day school setting. At Morton West, we provide an entire continuum of special education services. We have programs ranging from adaptive skills instruction to resource services. I will work closely with the students, staff, parents, administration, and community members to ensure that students receive a free appropriate public education in the least restrict environment. My focus will be to support students who require special education services to become a productive member of society by supporting them in achieving their individual post-secondary goals. I look forward to a successful and wonderful year!
Degrees and Certifications
- Western Illinois University, Bachelor of Science: Special Education, K-12, Learning Behavioral Specialist
- Concordia University Chicago, Master of Arts: Educational Leadership
- IL Professional Educator License, General Administrative Certificate