Leadership

Dr. Chip Houston holds over 20 years of educational experience, both in private and public education environments. Prior to joining the North Cobb Christian School family as the assistant head of school in January 2021, Dr. Houston served as the head of upper school of The Mount Vernon School in Atlanta. During his 10 years at Mount Vernon, Dr. Houston also served as head of middle school and the director of admissions. Prior to Mount Vernon, he held teaching and leadership positions at Chattahoochee High School, Dunwoody High School and Henderson Middle School. He holds a Doctorate of Educational Leadership from the University of Georgia, a Specialist of Educational Leadership from Georgia College and State University, a Master of Educational Leadership from Kennesaw State University, and a Bachelor of Social Science Education from the University of Georgia. With his professional and educational background, Dr. Houston lends valuable wisdom and perspective to North Cobb Christian School. 

Philosophy of Education:
Dr. Houston, who completed his doctoral work at UGA, wrote his dissertation on The Impact of Mind, Brain, and Education (MBE) Science on Teacher Practice, an academic field that explores the intersection of education, psychology and neuroscience. “We know so much more about the human brain than we did even 20 years ago, so how does that inform our pedagogy and teaching practices?” he says. “There are countless connections to be made between teaching and learning and the science of the brain. I am a big proponent of crafting educational experiences and environments based on how students learn best, to foster those connections.”

Family Life:
The Houston family includes Chip's wife Alli, and their three sons, Larkin, Liam and Oliver, who also attend NCCS. The Houstons live in Kennesaw and currently attend NorthStar Church. They are thrilled to be part of the NCCS Family!

Elizabeth holds a Master of Education in Literacy Curriculum and Instruction from Lesley University, Cambridge, and a Bachelor of Education from The University of Georgia. She began her journey at North Cobb Christian School in 1999 as a fourth grade teacher before transitioning to become literacy coordinator from 2002 – 2007, developing the reading and writing curriculum for the NCCS Lower School. Elizabeth also has extensive experience writing for and editing publications on a local and national level, including editing a New York Times Best Seller. In 2008, she launched Little Black Dress | Little Red Wagon Magazine, an award-winning local print and digital media outlet for Metro Atlanta.

After successfully running and growing LBD | LRW Magazine for a decade, Elizabeth was recruited back to NCCS in 2018 and currently serves as the director of marketing and communications. She says coming back to NCCS was like coming home and is thrilled to have her three children here, as well -- Bantten (class of 2025), Mia (class of 2028) and Brooks (class of 2031). She and her husband, Graham, live in Acworth and attend Vintage 242 Church.

Why I chose NCCS:
"Originally, I chose NCCS as an educator because of the small class sizes, tight-knit community, and ability to share my faith openly with my students. Now, I choose NCCS as a parent so that my three kids can benefit daily from NCCS’s amazing teachers. Everyone at this precious school is committed to knowing and loving the students, challenging them to be all God created them to be."

What sets NCCS apart from other school options: 
"There are public schools and there are private schools, but NCCS is uniquely a Christian school. We always say we aren't a private school -- we're a Christ-centered independent school. The unapologetic commitment to Christ held by our board, administration, and every single faculty and staff member has created a unique, nurturing culture and a tangible feeling when you walk in the doors that can only be attributed to the Holy Spirit."

Tara has been part of the NCCS community since 1988, when she began attending in first grade. She was a member of the first graduating class of NCCS in 2000, and went on to graduate from the University of Georgia in 2004 with an ABJ in advertising. Her previous work experience includes serving as project manager at a retail design firm, as well as assistant editor for Pregnancy Magazine and Little Black Dress | Little Red Wagon Magazine. In 2014, Tara joined the NCCS staff as the development assistant, managing the annual fund and alumni relations. She assumed the position of Director of Development in January 2018.

Tara and her husband David were married in 2004. They have two children who attend NCCS, Luke (class of 2026) and Kate (class of 2028). Tara enjoys spending time with family and friends, dating her husband, eating great food and exercising (but mostly eating), attending her children’s games/recitals/meets, and cheering on the UGA Bulldogs.

Why I love my job:
"It’s hard for me to think of a better job than helping NCCS advance and grow. This school has shaped so many children's lives and helped them grow into biblically grounded, academically prepared, and socially adept men and women. Having a role that contributes to the school’s ability to fulfill that mission with more excellence each year is a privilege."

Golden moment at NCCS:
"Though I have experienced many exciting moments at NCCS, the best have been when alumni come back to visit, whether it’s stopping in on a school day or attending an alumni event. We have the best alumni, and hearing all of the incredible things they’re doing when they leave NCCS is always such great confirmation of what we’re doing in the lives of students day in and day out."

Why I chose NCCS:
"For our family, there’s really no other choice. My family has been part of this school since 1988, and it has had a tremendous impact on our lives. This is a special place, with a community atmosphere that is hard to find. I’m so thankful my children will have NCCS as a part of their story, as well."

Linda Ellis joined the NCCS family in 1995, originally starting as a substitute teacher and expanding her role to Director of Facilities by 1998. Now, after 20 years of service, she is stepping into the role of Director of Operations, where she oversees facilities, grounds, transportation, food service and technology. Linda holds an undergraduate degree from the State University of New York.

Linda and her family have a long history at NCCS. Both of her children are NCCS alumni. Her son, Chris, graduated in 2005; her daughter, Meg, graduated in 2008. Linda and her husband, Kevin, founded the NCCS Swim Team in 2002, with Kevin coaching the team to countless victories over the course of 12 years. Linda is also a proud grandmother!

Why I chose NCCS:
I have loved being part of many of the kids lives and seeing them grow and mature into adults who have a passion for Christ. It is also a great privilege and blessing to see how God has brought this school to where it is today.

Brandon Ewing is an accomplished Christian educator dedicated to raising up a generation of committed believers who are fully equipped to thrive in their God-given purpose. He holds a Master of Religious Education degree from West Coast Baptist College and a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Studies and Economics from Baylor University.

During his career, Mr. Ewing has served as the head of school of Lancaster Baptist School in California; principal and teacher at Faith Baptist School in Illinois; youth director at Greater Waco Baptist Church in Texas; and, most recently, as the head of education for PragerU in Sherman Oaks, California, where he designed and reviewed educational content in alignment with biblical principles.

At PragerU, he also established rigorous national education standards in history, civics, western civilization, financial literacy, economics, entrepreneurship, and English language arts. His unique experience across diverse aspects of Christian education brings a valuable blend of biblical insight, curriculum expertise, and personal approachability to his new role as NCCS Middle School principal. 

Why I love middle school: “Students in fifth through eighth grades are going through a key time of faith development and identity expression. My heart for our NCCS students is that each one would have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, would take ownership of their faith, and would grow in their understanding of God's purpose for their lives, ultimately developing into young adults of character who are equipped to lead and serve their school, communities, and nation.”

Why I chose NCCS: "I am very honored to be part of a school community that is doing an excellent job helping children identify and reach their full, God-given potential. What NCCS is doing to raise up students who know the truth of who they are in Jesus Christ is remarkable."
 

Kristin Prince has been part of the NCCS community since 1998 in many roles, including parent, volunteer and Admissions assistant, before transitioning to the Business Office in 2011. She has two daughters who graduated from NCCS in 2006 and 2011, and her bonus son, granddaughter and grandson currently attend NCCS. 

Kristin attended West Georgia State University and Kennesaw State University, with further education from Liberty University. As an early childhood Montessori certified teacher, she holds 23 years of experience as a teacher, administrative assistant and director of operations for several Montessori schools. 

Kristin and her husband, Richard, attend Cowboy Church of Lafayette. Her favorite scripture verse is Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways submit to Him and He will make your paths straight.”

Why I love NCCS:
“From the moment we walked into the NCCS Admissions office back in 1998, our family knew there was something different about this school. This school truly is a family. The teachers genuinely love and want the best for their students. So many faculty and staff have invested in our family over the years, so having the opportunity to give back and serve this school as part of the leadership team brings joy to my heart.”

In addition to serving as director of the arts, Megan Pruitt has been the director of the NCCS Middle and Upper School bands since 2021.

In these roles, she has helped to elevate the scope and quality of our student musicians, most notably showcased through concerts, seasonal programs, and the spring musical pit orchestra. Mrs. Pruitt, alongside our instrumental arts team, has also helped advance our Instrumental Academy and reinvigorate the NCCS Pep Band. We look forward to many more years of growth for our student musicians as Mrs. Pruitt steps into the role of arts director, in addition to being director of bands. 

Prior to coming to NCCS, Mrs. Pruitt served as the band director at Cass High School for seven years, overseeing the marching band, two concert ensembles, percussion ensemble, winter guard, and an active booster organization. Under her direction, the Cass High School band doubled in size to over 130 members and received continuous superior ratings at marching band competitions and Large Group Performance Evaluations (LGPE). In 2019, the symphonic band, under her direction, was named Grand Champions at the Southern Star Music Festival. Her students were also regularly selected to participate in UGA Janfest, Reinhardt University Honor Band, District 7 Honor Band, and All-State Band. In 2019, Mrs. Pruitt was named teacher of the year for Cass High School. 

Mrs. Pruitt is a former All-State Chorus member herself, having excelled in flute and voice while in high school and college. She holds a bachelor’s degree in music education from Furman University and a master’s of music in wind band conducting from Georgia State University. Currently, Mrs. Pruitt is a member of the Cobb Wind Symphony and is an active member of the Georgia Music Educators Association. She and her husband Jason have been married since 2013. Their daughter, Adalynn (class of 2034) is a current Eagle, and they plan to enroll their younger daughter, Kaitlyn, when she turns 3. 

Why I love NCCS:
"I love the supportive team atmosphere and working closely with my arts colleagues to dream big and strive to provide a quality arts education for the students at NCCS."

Prior to accepting the position of Upper School principal in 2009, Megan Strange served North Cobb Christian School as the director of Student Life, as well as a Bible teacher and coach. Previously, Megan also worked in student ministry at an area church. She continues to have a heart for discipleship through building relationships and helping students grow in Christ.

Megan holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from The University of Memphis, a Master of Arts in Christian Leadership from Liberty University, and an Educational Specialist in Educational Leadership from Liberty University. She is the coordinator of the Principals 101 leadership group for the Atlanta Christian School Association and also served as a presenter and delegate to the Vancouver Symposium on Christian Education for the 21st Century.

Megan and her husband Clint are active members at NorthStar Church and the proud parents of Emma (class of 2027) and Eli (class of 2031). The North Cobb Christian School community is special to Megan, as she has seen hundreds of students whose lives have been radically changed by the gospel and the way that their teachers at NCCS pour into their hearts and minds.

Why I love my job:
"I love my role as the principal of the Upper School because it gives me the opportunity to support our faculty and staff, our students, and our families. I am so grateful to serve with some of the brightest and most gifted educators around. We love the chance to speak truth into the hearts and minds of our students everyday. The partnership we have with parents is one of the greatest blessings in the NCCS community."

Golden Moment at NCCS:
"As a principal, one of the highlights is when a student comes back to say thank you. Over the years, we have had the opportunity to deal with a variety of discipline situations that come up when working with middle and upper school students. My goal has always been to focus on the 'disciple' part of discipline. It is very exciting when a student realizes that and shows their gratitude for the time that was spent talking with them and helping them learn through a 'teachable moment.'"

Why I work at NCCS:
"I work at NCCS because I can’t imagine doing anything else. I genuinely love driving into the parking lot every morning, excited about what God has in store for us that day. Our faculty, staff and students are a blast to be around, and it is my pleasure to serve them each and every day."

Mike holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from Lee University. He came to North Cobb Christian School in 2008, originally serving as a middle school math teacher and boys basketball coach. Since then, he has enjoyed coaching several sports on the varsity level, including basketball, football and soccer. In 2011, he accepted the position of middle school athletic assistant, then moving into the role of assistant athletic director, and finally into his current position as the athletic director for NCCS. 

Mike has over 25 years of experience working in Christian education. Prior to joining the faculty at NCCS, he taught middle school math, Algebra I and Algebra II. He previously served as assistant coach to the state-runner-up boys basketball team at Faith Christian Academy, as well as the athletic director at Conway Christian School in Orlando, Florida. Additionally, he has held teaching and athletics positions in Mississippi and Tennessee.

Mike and his wife Amber have two children, both of whom graduated from North Cobb Christian School. Mike's hobbies include fishing, riding his motorcycle, coaching, and spending time with his family.

Mike’s favorite Scripture verse is Romans 8:28 – “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

Why I chose to work in Christian education:
"I love working in Christian education because it gives me an opportunity to build relationships with young people and minister the Word of God."

Why I chose NCCS:
"The faculty and staff at NCCS sincerely partner with the students and parents to win students to Christ. I have never encountered a better community of godly people with which to surround myself and my family. Working at NCCS gives you an authentic sense of being part of an extended family."

Wendy Titus has over two decades of experience as a teacher and administrator in Christian education, ranging from pre-K through seventh grade. She holds a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Covenant College, a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education, K-8th, from Liberty University, and Lifetime Teaching and All-Levels Principal certificates from the Association of Christian Schools International.

Her career began at Timberlake Christian School in Lynchburg, VA, as a first grade teacher. She then taught third grade at Northside Christian School in Florida before moving to Georgia with her family in 2005, which brought her to North Cobb Christian School. During her tenure at NCCS, Wendy has served in several positions, including fourth grade teacher, Academic Dean, and Lower School Principal. 

Wendy and her husband Scott have three children, all of whom graduated from NCCS. Their church home is NorthStar Church, where they are actively involved. When not serving at church or NCCS, Wendy enjoys spending quality time with her husband and family, baking, cake decorating, scrapbooking, and traveling to visit her children and their spouses around the country!

One of her favorite Bible verses is Deuteronomy 10:12-13, “And now, Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in obedience to him, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to observe the LORD’s commands and decrees that I am giving you today for your own good?”

Why I love my job:
"I love having the opportunity to invest in students’ lives. My goal is to help the students be all that God wants them to be and more! At North Cobb Christian School, I am able to watch them grow up and become godly young men and women for Christ. I am living out my dream as a child and loving every minute of it."

Golden moments at NCCS:
"In fourth grade, the teachers walk the students through the process of writing their own personal Psalm to God. Through that process, I have had the opportunity to sit down with many boys and girls and share the plan of salvation. I love seeing God touch their tender hearts and call them close to Him! There is no greater joy a teacher could have than to encourage their students to know God personally!"

Why I work at NCCS:
"I believe in and am dedicated to Christian education and embracing all learning through a biblical worldview. NCCS is committed to the same values and goals that my husband and I have always had for our children. NCCS is not just a school … it is our home and family!"

Beth has served as a vital member of the staff at North Cobb Christian School for two decades. With a strong understanding of the NCCS culture, Beth serves as the director of admissions, welcoming new families since 2007. Beth also successfully manages the Eagle Ambassador Program at NCCS. Under Beth’s leadership, the Eagle Ambassador Program allows students the opportunity to represent NCCS by serving during open houses, grandparents programs, and special community and school events.

Beth also supports the admissions process for the NCCS International Program, which works with students from around the world who select North Cobb Christian School for their study-abroad experience. Beth, alongside Director of International Students Carrie Peterson, partners with international student agencies and also serves and supports the host families for these students throughout their study-abroad experience.

Beth and her husband are proud parents of three sons, all of whom graduated from NCCS and serve as supportive alumni. Beth and her husband spend their time enjoying their role as grandparents and are active attenders of Church of the Apostles. One of Beth’s favorite Scripture verses is Philippians 4:7, “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Why I work at NCCS: "When I was searching for a school for my boys, I fell in love with NCCS and wanted to be part of the ministry here. I feel very blessed to have a job that I absolutely love. I am surrounded by such wonderful co-workers, families and students!"

Why I love my job at NCCS: "Now that all three of my boys have graduated from NCCS, I can see even more how this amazing school prepares students for life … academically, spiritually, and emotionally. I’m grateful beyond words to be able to share the heart of NCCS with prospective families!"

Dan Garcia is the President of C.W. Matthews Contracting Company, located in Marietta. Dan holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from The Citadel, a master’s degree in business administration from Mercer University, and is the former president of the Georgia Asphalt Pavement Association.

Dan and his wife Debbie have been married since 1998 and have five beautiful children who are proud to be NCCS Eagles and alumni: Erika (class of 2019), Brianna (class of 2021), Kevin (class of 2023), Michelle and Katherine (both class of 2025). The Garcias are members of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church.

Dan is a fervent supporter of our community’s youth. In addition to serving as a key internship partner for students through C.W. Matthews, Dan is currently a board member for Youth in Mission, a non-profit organization that provides funding for young men and women to serve on mission trips around the world to impact others for Christ.

Two of Dan’s favorite Bible verses are Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” and 1 Chronicles 29:12, “Riches and glory are from you, and you have dominion over all. In your hand are power and might; it is yours to give greatness and strength to all.”

If you know Dan, you know what a shining light he is to our NCCS Family. We are richly blessed by his wisdom and guidance.
 

LaRonna Turnbough is a fourth-generation minister who serves full time in ministry alongside her husband, Otha, as the co-pastor of Lionheart Church in Austell and Riverdale, Georgia. LaRonna provides spiritual guidance and counsel through teaching, preaching, and individual mentorship. She oversees several departments in the ministry, teaching on topics that include singles and courtship, marriage and family, inner healing, and spiritual warfare. She is a graduate of Word of Faith School of Ministry and uses her education, knowledge, and extensive experience to pour into the lives of others with the transformative power of Christ.

When she’s not in the pulpit, LaRonna can be found showing properties all over Atlanta as a Multi-Million Dollar Club Member with Coldwell Banker Realty. She is also currently pursuing a degree in business administration from Liberty University, in addition to running a health and wellness business.

LaRonna’s first ministry, however, has always been to her family. She and Otha were married in 1996 and have six amazing children, all of whom are accomplished NCCS alumni and current students: Moriah (class of 2017), Otha (class of 2019), Rachel (class of 2021), Sophia (class of 2023), Elizabeth (class of 2024) and Jeremiah (class of 2025). They also recently welcomed their first grand baby, Melody Elizabeth Turnbough!

Clearly a woman of many talents, the most impressive feat on LaRonna’s resume may be previously home-schooling all six of her children … while also operating an in-home daycare to support other working mothers! Finding NCCS as a partner in the scholastic and spiritual development of her children was a match made in heaven, quite literally.

One of LaRonna’s favorite Scriptures is 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NLT) – “Each time he said, ‘My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.’ So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.”

To say that we honor and appreciate LaRonna for her service and wisdom to our NCCS community is an understatement.

Mark Humphrey has worked for The Coca-Cola Company for 23 years and is currently the director of financial planning and reporting. He graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University with bachelor's degree in finance and holds a master's degree in business administration from the University of South Carolina.

Mark and his wife Karen were married in 1988 and have two children, Michael and Allison, both graduates of NCCS who were “lifers” (attended NCCS from kindergarten through high school).

The Humphreys have been members of First Presbyterian Church of Marietta since 1992, where Mark serves as a deacon and has also served as a youth advisor with the middle school youth group. Mark is on the board of Men Abiding in Christ Ministries, Inc., a ministry focused on growing men’s relationship with Jesus Christ and assisting churches in growing discipleship through retreats, seminars and small group programs.

One of Mark’s favorite Bible verses is Colossians 2:6-7, “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.”

Michael Bell serves as the chief financial officer for C.W. Matthews Contracting Company in Marietta. He graduated from Georgia State University with a B.S. in Business Administration, with a major in Accounting.  

He received his CPA Certification from the State of Georgia in 2000.  

Michael married his wife Kayle in 1996 and they have 6 children, Bryant, a graduate of NCCS, Tyler, Angela, Samantha, and Colton, who all attend NCCS, and Jamie. The Bell family attends Cedarcrest Church.  Michael enjoys hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family.

Michael’s favorite Scripture is Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your path straight.”

Zack Carden attended Chattanooga Central High School before moving on to earn a Bachelor of Arts Philosophy and Religion at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and a Master of Divinity at Covenant Theological Seminary in St. Louis.

Zack has been in full-time ordained vocational pastoral ministry since 2002. From 1994-2001, he was involved in ministry on a volunteer basis. Currently, he holds the title of Director of Family Ministries at the Church of the Apostles Atlanta.

He and his wife Tennyson currently reside in Kennesaw, GA, with their four children, Seth Carden (class of 2019), Talbott (class of 2020), Cole (class of 2023), and Halle (class of 2025).

Zack’s favorite verse is Philippians 1:6 – “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” 

Robin Michael Hoover graduated from the University of Georgia with a Bachelor of Science in Exceptional Child Education. She went on to teach and tutor at the high school level before transitioning to work for Chick-fil-A, where she served as a grand-opening marketing specialist. Currently, Robin works with several nonprofits and scholarship organizations, including UNTOLD, an organization that exists to embrace and equip people to live a life beyond AIDS, and Extra Special People, a nonprofit that creates transformative experiences for people with disabilities. She is also on the Student Affairs Fundraising Advisory Board at the University of Georgia, through which she serves as a mentor to residents. Additionally at UGA, Robin is an advocate for Let All the Big Dawgs Eat meal plan scholarship, which combats student hunger.

Robin has been married to her husband Wayne since 1985, and they have two children: Wrenn Hoover Coussens (NCCS class of 2008) and Grant Hoover (NCCS class of 2011). They currently reside in Athens, Georgia, and attend Athens Church. 

Robin's favorite verse is Lamentations 3:22-24 – “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, 'The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.'" 

Anita Johnson is an experienced healthcare provider who holds a master's degree in nursing from the University of Alabama in Huntsville. She currently works for Wellstar Health System.

Anita and her husband Eric have been married since 1989 and are proud to call Acworth home. Their daughter Erika (class of 2019) is an accomplished NCCS alumnae who graced the stages of NCCS often with her vocal and theatrical talents. Anita and Eric attend Westridge Church.

Anyone who knows Anita has gleaned her heart for serving others, particularly for mentoring young students and supporting the marginalized. While living in Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia, she has led ministries that serve homeless families in her community.

Anita’s favorite verses are found in Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV), “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

Kimberly Leftwich is a passionate advocate for special needs education and is co-founder of Cobb Dyslexia Network. She has extensive experience working within both the public and private education spheres, as well as with the Georgia state legislature to implement positive change for students with special education needs, especially those with dyslexia.

She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Georgia Southern University. Kimberly’s experience in event and project management for non-profit organizations includes working for Saint Joseph’s Mercy Foundation, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and the Atlanta Board of REALTORS.

Kimberly and her husband Greg were married in 1999 and have two children, Will (class of 2024) and Audrey Jane (class of 2026), who currently attend NCCS. The Leftwich family are members of Transfiguration Catholic Church. She enjoys spending time with family, traveling and volunteering in the community.

One of her favorite scripture passages is Psalm 25: 4-5: "Show me the right path, oh Lord; point out the road for me to follow. Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in you."

Tim McKenzie is a longtime parent at North Cobb Christian School, having first enrolled his children in 2001. He and his wife LeAnn have walked our halls with Addison (class of 2013), Will (class of 2017) and now Emmie (class of 2028). 

Professionally, Tim is the director of software sales at Precisely, a business-to-business software development company. He and LeAnn attend Cedarcrest Church, where they co-lead a Life Group for adults, as well as a third-grade Sunday school class. 

As a member of the NCCS community for nearly two decades, Tim notes that he is most struck by the dedication of our faculty and their commitment to make sacrifices in order to minister to our students. He says that the hours our teachers invest into students outside of class is priceless -- as they choose to be pastors, as well as teachers, to our children.

Another favorite aspect of NCCS for Tim is the authentic community. “We live in a big city, but it feels like a small, close-knit community at North Cobb Christian School,” he says. 

Lauren Morris is a proud alumna of the North Cobb Christian School Class of 2013! After her time at NCCS, she attended the University of Georgia where she earned a bachelor's of business administration with a major in real estate. Lauren currently works as a senior sales consultant at Mark Spain Real Estate. She enjoys helping clients accomplish their real estate goals along with spending time mentoring and leading new agents as they begin their careers.

Lauren currently attends Christ Covenant Church. In her free time, she enjoys traveling with friends and family, playing tennis and cheering on the Braves!

Lauren’s favorite Bible verse is Mark 10:27, "Jesus looked at them and said, 'With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.'"

Ricky Poe has been practicing veterinary medicine since 1996 and has been the owner of East Paulding Animal Hospital, along with his wife Pam, since 1998. He holds a bachelor's degree in biochemistry and a doctoral degree in veterinary medicine, both from the University of Georgia. 

Ricky is also a partner at Defense Research and Development, Inc. Additionally, he has served as vice president of the board of directors for McKenna Farms Therapy Services since its inception, providing mental and physical therapy for disabled children.

Ricky and his wife Pam were married in 1998 and have two daughters, Alexandria (class of 2019) and Victoria (class of 2022). Their church home is Lighthouse Christian Church in Dallas.

A few of Ricky’s favorite verses are Philippians 4: 6-7, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus,” and Psalm 46:10, “Be still, and know that I am God .…”

Dan Smith served as the chief financial officer for New South Construction for 29 years. Having recently retired, Dan continues to serve on New South’s advisory board and also provides leadership for New South Foundation, the company’s nonprofit organization, which Dan helped establish in 2009. New South Foundation provides scholarships to deserving students with families in the construction industry and also supports veteran organizations, women and children’s shelters, Make-A-Wish, and more. 

Additionally, Dan has been involved with the Construction Education Foundation of Georgia (Construction Ready) since 2014, previously serving as chairman of the board. He has also been an active member of the Associated General Contractors (AGC) since 1999, where he served on multiple committees. Dan has been a devoted member of Lost Mountain Baptist Church since 2001, serving on the church's leadership board.

Dan and his wife Alana are the proud parents of NCCS alumni Chad (class of 2011) and Ansley (class of 2013). They are thankful for the investment of NCCS in the lives of their children. 

One of Dan's favorite verses is Ephesians 2:8-10, which says,"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast.  For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."

Rod Smith is a real estate investor, as well as an advocate for orphans and adoption. He is the co-founder of Freedom Electronics, where he served as CEO for 22 years. He sold the company to private equity in 2018 and retired the following year. Rod holds a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering technology from Southern Polytechnic State University and an MBA with a marketing focus from Kennesaw State University.

Rod and his wife Lisa have been married since 1985. They have been NCCS parents since 1994, guiding seven children through our halls, including Logan (class of 2008), Parker (class of 2010), AnnaBelle (class of 2023), and Macy (class of 2030). Parker currently serves as NCCS's director of Student Life. In addition, the Smiths have three precious grandchildren with another on the way!

The Smiths worship at Burnt Hickory Baptist Church, where Rod is a deacon and teaches 4th grade Sunday school, and Lisa teaches 11th grade. Rod and Lisa are also marriage mentors.

Adoption and orphan ministry are close to the family’s heart. Four of the Smith kids are adopted internationally from Ukraine and Bulgaria. Rod serves on the board of directors of both Radooga, a Ukrainian-based ministry to children at risk, and LifeSong for Orphans Ukraine. He travels to Ukraine in orphan ministry. 

In his spare time, Rod enjoys tennis, hiking, coaching Macy’s softball teams, spending time with family, and mentoring young men in business. His favorite scripture is John 14:6, “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way, and the truth and the life. No one comes to the father except through me’.”  To Rod, the amazing thing about this passage is not just the exclusivity of salvation through Jesus alone, but also the fact that the perfect God of the universe chose to allow a way for sinful man to approach Him at all is overwhelming.