Meet Mr. Cory Plough, Holston Academy’s New Head of School
May 12, 2025
Holston Academy’s New Head of School, Mr. Cory Plough, brings vision, experience, and heart to the future of online education at the school.
Holston Academy is thrilled to welcome Mr. Cory Plough as our new Head of School! With over two decades of experience in online and blended education, Mr. Plough brings a wealth of knowledge, a passion for innovation, and a deep commitment to student success. In this special Q&A, we had the opportunity to sit down with Mr. Plough and learn more about his background, vision, and goals for the future of Holston Academy.
A Leader with a Strong Foundation in Online Learning
Mr. Plough’s journey in education began over 20 years ago, when he became a teacher in Nevada’s first online and blended learning program. That formative experience sparked a career devoted to pioneering and leading innovative educational models across the country. Since then, Mr. Plough has held leadership roles in private and charter schools, directing online, blended, and traditional programs. The 2025–26 school year will mark his twelfth year in school leadership.
Why Holston?
When asked what drew him to Holston Academy, Mr. Plough’s answer was clear: shared values and a strong mission. “Holston embodies the values I hold most dear,” he said, highlighting the school’s commitment to small learning communities and student-centered education. “It’s an innovative program with passionate teachers and staff who truly care about students and one another.”
Unlocking the Potential of Online Education
Mr. Plough sees Holston as a trailblazer in virtual learning. With flexible programming, personalized support, and a focus on developing future-ready skills, the school creates an environment where students can thrive. “Holston offers an educational experience unlike any other,” he said. “We’re preparing future-ready students for an ever-changing world.”
Early Goals and Long-Term Vision
As he steps into his new role, Mr. Plough is focused on listening and learning. He’s eager to connect with staff, students, and families to understand their experiences and needs. “Creating a strong foundation that supports superior education is a top priority,” he shared.
Looking ahead, Mr. Plough defines success through the lens of community satisfaction. “We want Holston to be a place where students want to learn and educators want to work—because they believe in the mission and see the impact every day.”
Balancing Innovation with Human Connection
Technology plays a central role in Holston’s model, and Mr. Plough is excited about the possibilities—especially as tools like AI become more prominent in education. But for him, tech will never replace the human relationships that make learning meaningful. “At the heart of Holston are the connections between students, teachers, and staff,” he said. “That’s what makes this an amazing experience.”
Supporting Every Student, Every Step of the Way
With students from diverse backgrounds and learning needs, Holston places a strong emphasis on holistic support. Mr. Plough aims to strengthen opportunities for both academic excellence and social engagement, whether through digital communities or in-person events. “It’s all about building a well-rounded education that supports the whole student.”
Leading with Positivity and Purpose
A strong, supportive school culture is essential to Mr. Plough’s leadership philosophy. He plans to lead by listening, celebrating successes, and encouraging collaboration among faculty and staff. “When educators feel supported and inspired, that energy carries over into the student experience.”
Mr. Plough Outside of the Classroom
Mr. Plough is a dedicated father to a 17-year-old son preparing for college, and an adventurer at heart. He’s traveled to all 50 U.S. states and is now on a mission to visit all 63 national parks. In his downtime, you’ll find him reading novels, exploring nature, or streaming his favorite shows.
A Message to the Holston Community
“It is with tremendous enthusiasm and a deep sense of purpose that I join your remarkable community. Holston Academy’s reputation for academic excellence, innovation, and student growth aligns perfectly with my vision for what education should be. As we move forward together, my door is always open. I look forward to getting to know each of you as we work to create an environment where every student can discover their passions, develop their talents, and achieve their highest potential.”