Mount Paran Christian School (MPCS), a private Christian school in Cobb County, is pleased to announce Dr. Matthew Kerlin as the new Head of School.
Mount Paran Christian School, the largest private covenantal Christian school in Cobb county, stands poised to embrace a new time in their almost 50-year history as it warmly welcomes new Head of School Dr. Matthew Kerlin.
With a laser focus on nurturing minds and souls, Dr. Kerlin brings a wealth of experience and a profound commitment to the Christ-centered mission of MPCS. Retired Head of School Dr. David Tilley served the school as Interim Head of School from May 2023-June 2024.
In addition to leading some of the Southeast’s best educators and staff, Dr. Kerlin spent the first week of school at MPCS greeting students and parents in the carpool line, playing on the playground with the preschoolers, and posing with Shelton the Eagle.
Dr. Kerlin’s journey in education has been nothing short of extraordinary. With a distinguished tenure spanning six years as Head of School at SouthLake Christian in Charlotte, N.C., coupled with roles at esteemed institutions like Samford University as Assistant VP for Student Development and University Minister as well as Campus Ministry at the University of Alabama and Belmont University, Dr. Kerlin’s path has been marked by a steadfast commitment to student development and holistic growth.
As a shepherding, pastoral leader with deep relational capabilities, Dr. Kerlin states “MPCS is a beacon of academic excellence and unapologetic Christian mission. The opportunity to lead an institution that seamlessly blends both was simply irresistible.” With a vision anchored in ensuring a legacy of financial stability, spiritual vibrancy, and academic distinction, Dr. Kerlin is a strategic thinker, poised to chart a course that will leave an indelible mark on MPCS for generations.
Dr. Kerlin and his wife of 33 years, Jonlyn, are parents of three adult children. MPCS Board of Trustees Chairman George Ethridge shared, “Dr. Kerlin is a strategic thinker and team builder who has the vision and foresight to drive MPCS to new heights. The Board is incredibly excited about the hiring of Dr. Kerlin, as we believe that God has guided the Kerlins to MPCS.”
About: Mount Paran Christian School, the largest private Christian school in Cobb County, is a non-denominational, college-preparatory independent school for students in preschool age three through grade 12. MPCS is committed to elevated excellence in academics, award-winning arts, and championship athletics, all within a
covenantal-Christian environment with small class sizes. Founded in 1976, MPCS is fully accredited (SAIS/Cognia) and located near Kennesaw Mountain on a 68-acre college-like campus. Providing academic excellence in a Christ-centered environment, MPCS unites with home and church to prepare servant-leaders to honor God, love others, and walk in Truth.
