The Opportunity

Parkway Christian Academy (PCA) is a vibrant Christian school serving nearly 450 ethnically and socio-economically diverse students from K4 through 12th grade in Lakeland, Florida. PCA is committed to a holistic approach to education, nurturing each student's academic, spiritual, and personal growth, while equipping them to make a meaningful impact for Christ in the world. The school is a ministry of Parkway Baptist Church.

Parkway Christian Academy's mission is to share the gospel of Jesus Christ and invite students to deepen the relationship with Jesus Christ while teaching the students a Biblical worldview through exceptional academics and extracurricular activities. Parkway Christian Academy inspires students to discover and pursue God's calling for the students lives. Beginning in Pre-K, PCA students are equipped with a strong academic foundation. As the students progress through middle and high school, the students consistently demonstrate academic growth through standardized assessments. PCA offers a rigorous, biblically integrated curriculum and opportunities like dual enrollment. Students are also encouraged to explore a variety of extracurricular activities that foster new interests, teamwork, and leadership development.

At PCA, the faculty and staff are dedicated to Christ-centered education and excellence. The teachers are highly qualified, hold certifications in the areas of instruction, and fully embrace PCA's mission. The teachers actively partner with parents, fostering engagement at every level. Several of the faculty members have devoted the facult member's entire careers to Christian education at PCA, demonstrating deep commitment to the students and community. PCA is located in beautiful Lakeland, Florida—one of the fastest-growing areas in the country—conveniently nestled between the Gulf waters of Tampa Bay and the attractions of Orlando. The campus spans 7.72 acres and includes two instructional buildings and a gymnasium, with classrooms equipped with the latest technology. As PCA seeks the next Head of School, PCA is looking for a leader who is passionate about advancing PCA's mission, dedicated to nurturing the spiritual and academic growth of the students and committed to partnering with families to cultivate a Christ-centered, academically excellent school community.

The Position

Parkway Christian Academy, with nearly 450 students, seeks a visionary and Christ-centered leader to serve as its next Head of School. Reporting directly to the CEO of Parkway Ministries/Chair of the School Board and the School Board, the Head of School is responsible for ensuring the efficient and effective operation of all aspects of the school while upholding PCA's mission of providing a Biblically-based, academically excellent education.

The Head of School works closely with the leadership team, which includes the Elementary Principal, Middle/High School Principal, and School Counselor, to manage the daily operations of the school. This position also oversees several key staff members, including the Athletic Director, ESE Teacher, Admissions Coordinator, Executive Assistant/Registrar, and Cafeteria Manager, while benefiting from additional support provided by the church staff.

The Head of School at Parkway Christian Academy will provide visionary leadership, ensuring that every aspect of the school aligns with its mission. The Head of Scholl will oversee day-to-day operations, prioritizing academic excellence, spiritual growth, and financial sustainability. This role includes developing and executing long-term strategic plans to expand the academy's programs, facilities, and partnerships. The Head of School will lead and mentor faculty and staff, fostering a collaborative and growth-focused culture. Additionally, the Head of School will actively engage with families, donors, and the local community to promote and strengthen the academy's mission and vision.

PCA's next leader must be a mature and committed Christian with a deep understanding of Christian education and a proven record of accomplishment in this field. This individual should possess strong executive management skills, experience with donor cultivation, and a talent for leading through change. Additionally, the Head of School must be committed to academic excellence and have a strong grasp of the operational needs of a growing K4-12 school. The Head of School will lead a passionate leadership team and ensure that each member has the support and resources needed to thrive in the roles, contributing to the overall success and mission of Parkway Christian Academy.

General Qualifications, Education, And Experience

Minimum Qualifications:

• Master's Degree or higher, preferably in Educational Administration, Leadership, or a related field, with the ability to obtain certification in Administration from an accrediting organization.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 3-10 years of experience in educational administration, preferably within a Christian school environment or in an equivalent senior leadership role.
• 2-5 years of classroom teaching experience.
• Proven success in growing and improving programs, enrollment, and/or financial support.

Expectations Of the Head of School

• Leadership & Visionary Capabilities: Strong, innovative leader with the ability to set a clear vision for the school's future, including plans for expansion and development; demonstrated experience in leading an academic institution toward growth while maintaining core Christian values; ability to inspire and guide staff and students to reach their full potential.
• Management & Financial Insight: Skilled in school management, including operational oversight of faculty, staff, and students; financially astute with experience managing budgets, overseeing financial planning, and ensuring fiscal responsibility; experienced in developing and executing strategic plans for school growth, including fundraising, facility development, and resource management.
• Commitment to Christian Values: Strong personal relationship with Jesus Christ and unwavering commitment to biblical principles and values; passionate about integrating a Christian worldview into all aspects of education, ensuring students receive both academic excellence and spiritual formation; exemplifies a servant-leader mentality, demonstrating humility, grace, and integrity in all interactions.
• Future-oriented Leadership: Forward-thinker with the ability to identify opportunities for school expansion and improvement; skilled at engaging with the community and key stakeholders to secure partnerships, build a strong school reputation, and expand enrollment.

Application Process & Timeline

For consideration, candidates should submit a resume, including a current resume/CV, a cover letter outlining the interest in and qualifications for this leadership position, and Philosophy of Christian Education. While the position will remain open until filled, for full consideration, please submit all application materials by December 6, 2024.

The new Head of School will begin work July 2025.