SIDNEY — Christian Academy Schools has announced that Richard “Dick” Dray has been hired as head of school, starting with the 2018-19 school year.

This announcement comes after an exhaustive search by the board of directors and current Superintendent Mary Smith. Smith is retiring after serving for 20 years as superintendent.

Also joining the school will be Dray’s wife, Kendi Dray, as kindergarten teacher. The Drays will relocate to Sidney from Pottersville, New York. Dick has served for 13 years with Word of Life Bible Institute of Schroon Lake, New York. He most recently worked there as associate executive dean and professor. Prior to that, he worked for 12 years as principal of Worthington Christian Schools in Worthington, Ohio.

Dick grew up near Bluffton and has a bachelor’s degree in preseminary Biblical studies from Cedarville University. He has a Master of Theology in Christian education with emphasis in educational leadership from Dallas Theological Seminary. He is currently studying for a Doctor of Ministries from the same school. He is credentialed as a lifetime professional administrator by the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI).

Kendi grew up in the Columbus area and has a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Cedarville University. She has taught early childhood education for 17 years, most recently at Mountainside Christian Academy in Schroon Lake, New York. Prior to that, she taught at Worthington Christian Schools in Worthington. She has a provisional teaching certificate from the state of Ohio and early education certification through ACSI. The Drays have two adult children.

According to Christian Academy Schools Board President Todd Miller, “This was a long search, and we are very pleased to have the Drays joining us. Dick has extensive experience in spiritual leadership, strategic planning, team leading and donor relations. He will be a huge asset to our community and will immediately be able to continue the pursuit of Christian Academy’s vision through our recently completed, five-year, strategic plan. We are confident that he will lead the school into a future of continued success in growing God’s Kingdom.”

The hiring of Dick as Head of School is part of a change in Christian Academy’s overall administrative model. Current employees taking on new or expanded roles include Doug Adkins, director of information technology; Kristina Baughman, director of marketing; Tori Faulder, director of curriculum; Rusty Kirkpatrick, director of students; Denise McPheron, executive secretary; and Lisa Miller, director of finance.

“This change in administrative model will position Christian Academy Schools for growth while allowing members of the tremendous staff we are blessed with to use their individual gifts and talents. So much growth and advancement has taken place at the school under Mrs. Smith’s leadership, we know that God continues to have great things in store for the school and its presence in our community,” said Miller. “With the school’s having started in 1978, this being our 40th anniversary really stands out for us. In the Bible, the number 40 is symbolic of growth, renewal and God’s provision. While we celebrate the last 40 years, we look forward to what the future holds.”