Distinguished Air Force Lt-Colonel and Christian Educator Poised to Head Elementary

We have immensely enjoyed the leadership, encouragement, friendship and camaraderie of Mr. Darren West, our current Elementary Principal over the last several years. Nostalgia has crept in and taken hold, but we are extremely grateful for our time with him. While we express our sadness that he will be saying farewell to the NCA Family, we are encouraged that he has followed God’s call to return to his home state of Texas, where he will effectively and inspirationally serve families in Christian Education!

Through diligence in prayer, the administration is pleased to share that an offer for our Elementary Principal has been extended to, and accepted by, Dr. Donald Larson. His effective date will be July 1, 2016.

Anchored in a twenty-year career with the United States Air Force, Dr. Larson achieved the distinguished rank of Lieutenant Colonel; leading Joint Special Operations Air Command, combat operations and large teams. Upon retirement, Don answered the calling of Christian education and served as School Superintendent for Rocky Bayou Christian School located in Niceville, Florida. There, Don led efforts in strategic planning, academic advancement, financial execution, spiritual life and development. In 2009, Don and his family were presented with the opportunity to work with inner-city children with Brookstone Schools in Charlotte, North Carolina. As Head of School, he and his team have delivered outstanding results in the areas of academic rigor, fine arts, student growth, and facilities construction and fund development.

Don holds a Bachelor of Science in Quantitative Business Analysis / Computer Science from Louisiana State University, a Master of Military Operational Art and Science along with a Master of Social Science in Modern History / International Relations from Syracuse University. In 2008, he received his Doctorate of Philosophy in Education from Capella University, specializing in leadership in educational administration. The administration is also pleased to share that Dr. Don Larson will be accepting his responsibilities as our new Elementary Principal while at the same time assisting Mr. Fajardo as Associate Head of School.

The Lord continues to bless and show His favor for Northside Christian Academy, Northside Baptist Church and all of her ministries. We are very appreciative of all staff, faculty, parent, and student prayers throughout the search process.

Please join us in welcoming Don, his wife Marielle, and their 13-year old daughter, Priscilla, to the Northside family!