Skip Navigation

Welcome Head of School

Mr. James Armistead

 

Please join us in officially welcoming our new Head of School, James Armistead! 

Mr. Armistead comes to us with nearly 40 years of experience in Christian education, most recently serving as the Head of School at Laurel Christian School in Laurel, Mississippi. He holds a bachelor's degree in Physics and Mathematics from King College, a master's degree in Educational Leadership, and completed the post-baccalaureate education program at the University of Tennessee. 

Mr. Armistead began his teaching career at Chattanooga Christian School, where he taught math and science courses, helped with accreditation, and eventually served as registrar. After 18 years there, he began working on the administrative side of Christian education, functioning as a High School Principal and eventually serving in the Head of School role at four different Christian academies. 

Mr. Armistead is originally from Johnson City, Tennessee, and grew up in Mexico and Ecuador, as the son of missionaries. He is an active church member and has served in various leadership and ministry roles in previous churches. He is married to Patti, and they have one adult son, Lewis. 

The School Board is excited about many of the skills seen while getting to know Mr. Armistead. He is passionate about academics and upholds a thoroughly Christian worldview that views all learning through the lens of Scripture. He is theologically astute and gifted in expressing the truths of the Bible conversationally. Mr. Armistead is invested in shaping the next generation of believers and leaders through classical Christian education. He is an approachable leader but demonstrates a willingness to make tough decisions. We believe he will be a strong leader of our academic ministry.  

We thank you for your prayerful support during the Head of School search process and ask for continued prayer for Mr. Armistead, his family, and First Baptist Academy through this transition. Help us welcome our new Head of School, James Armistead!