Greater Houlton Christian Academy (GHCA) Board of Directors has accepted the resignation of John Bishop, Head of School, effective June 30.
Bishop and his family are relocating to the Portland area, where he has accepted the position as Head of School for Greater Portland Christian School.
“I am excited about the opportunity to potentially lead that school through the accreditation process as well as address some substantial facility challenges,” he said.
“Six years ago, Mr. Bishop brought his career skills as a Christian School Administrator to GHCA and has been a great asset to our efforts here,” said Peter Holmes, GHCA board chair. “He has handled both the opportunities and challenges with integrity and a humble spirit. Our school family is grateful for his service.”
Tom Zimmerman has agreed to serve as Interim Head of School while the GHCA Board of Directors works on a leadership transition plan.
“This role is not new to Mr. Zimmerman,” explained Holmes. “For many years he has assisted in the operational and administrative duties at GHCA. We appreciate his willingness to assist our school family as we work through the assessment process for a future leader.”
Bishop noted one of the benefits of moving to the Portland area is that it will get him and his wife, Sue, closer to their family.
“Sue has worked as a medical secretary at Houlton Regional Hospital since moving to the area and she will greatly miss the staff of the Houlton Pediatrics office,” said Bishop.
During Bishop’s time at the school, he completed the accreditation process with both New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) and the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) — the only private Christian school in the state with accreditation from both of these organizations.
The school facility itself underwent major interior improvements during Bishop’s tenure, including a major renovation of the gym, several technological upgrades, new science lab furnishings and new classroom furniture for the secondary program. The school also purchased property across the street from the school in order to complete its parking lot.
“This seems like an opportune time to leave because the school’s anticipated enrollment is already up for the next school year and there is a lot of parent enthusiasm about some new programs for next year,” he said.
“In addition, scheduling adjustments will now allow for our 11th and 12th grade students to participate in alternative educational opportunities,” said Holmes. “We have announced plans to our association of a full-time preschool at our facility, potentially opening as early as the fall of 2015. The new preschool will provide service for students from ages two and a half to four years. We are a school on the move and looking forward to our future.”
Bishop said that he will especially miss the students.
“I’ve loved starting their days with a big smile and maybe a little teasing! The hugs and grins I got in return were worth the time spent out of the office,” he said.
Bishop said that announcing his decision to the faculty and staff, was very tough because they have developed such strong friendships and professional bonds over these last years.
“I’ve never been part of a faculty and staff that have worked so well together,” he said. “These people are true professionals who are totally committed to their students and to Christian education.”
