New year brings new leader to TCA

For only the fourth time in its history, Trinity Christian Academy will enter a school year with a new Head of School. Craig Smith took the helm following the retirement of Dr. Steve Newby, concluding a nationwide search.

“Craig Smith is a long-time Christian administrator in the Dallas-Fort Worth area who brings his considerable leadership experience to TCA. I could not ask for a better person to take over as Head of School than Craig," Newby said. "His strong faith, business acumen, and love of Christian education will enable TCA to continue growing and contributing to the Parker County community.”

Smith brings 24 years of leadership experience in administration in the Christian school environment in Taylor and Tarrant Counties. He most recently served as Associate Head of School for Southwest Christian School in Fort Worth before starting his own consulting firm in July of 2023.

Smith attended Abilene Christian University, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications. He later earned a certification in Leading School Strategy and Innovation from the Harvard Graduate School of Education/Harvard Business School.

“I've been blessed to be a part of God's work at multiple schools and, along the way, learn something about best practices," Smith said. "I'm a life-long learner and that's part of the perspective I will bring."

Smith said he was attracted to TCA because of the school's rich history.

"I'm excited to help build on that success. Our location in Parker County is unbeatable," he said.

TCA School Board President Bert Thompson said Smith's extensive experience, commitment to excellence, and visionary leadership make him the ideal choice to lead the school into an exciting future of growth and success.

"The Board is confident that God's will, purpose, and plan were evident for this process, for TCA, and for Craig. We are incredibly excited about the promising days ahead," Thompson said.

Smith stressed that at the top of his mission and goals list is "students first."

"We will continue to partner with families to train students in a Christ-centered environment," he said. "Our land next to our new stadium and track gives us lots of options for expansion. We will do our best to follow God's direction for our school and never grow complacent."

He and his wife Jan have been married for 39 years. She is a first-grade teacher, most recently at Birdville Elementary School in North Richland Hills. They have three adult children, two sons, and one daughter, all of whom are married.

They also have two granddaughters, whom they love to talk about with anyone who will listen.

In his off time, Smith loves the outdoors - walking, biking, kayaking, and rafting - and being still in creation. He and Jan love to travel, see their children and grandchildren, and explore new places.