COOKEVILLE – Heavenly Host Lutheran School’s (HHLS) Board of Education has extended a three-year contract to second-year Director of Schools Dr. Zachary Murphy. The extension will keep Murphy in his role through June 2023.
“Dr. Murphy understands the mission of Heavenly Host and has exceeded the Board’s expectations with his vision for the school,” said Gary Case, School Board Chair. “He is keeping up with technology and safety guidelines to better protect our children during this pandemic. We look forward to working with him as we help our students receive a Christian education and strong academic foundation.”
Murphy took the helm of HHLS at the beginning of the 2019-2020 school year. Under his direction, the school has doubled its enrollment numbers compared to the previous school year. With the new growth, classes in the lower elementary that were combined are now split into separate classes. Murphy has updated the school’s curriculum and met the demand for a high school program by expanding the school’s offerings to include grades 9-12. Furthermore, he has ensured the school received accreditation with Cognia (formerly AdvancED/SACS CASI) in addition to maintaining its continual accreditation with the National Lutheran School Accreditation (NLSA).
“I am thankful for the Board’s confidence and trust and grateful for the opportunity to continue to reach and serve students and families in the years ahead at HHLS,” said Murphy. “The first year was nothing short of amazing, and I give thanks to God for the blessings He has granted. I know our brightest days are still ahead, and all that has been achieved so far is just the beginning of what we will accomplish together as we continue to utilize the momentum that has been created in year one.”
Murphy earned his Bachelor of General Studies in biology and psychology, his Master of Education (M.Ed.) in secondary education, Education Specialist (Ed.S) in instructional leadership, and Doctor of Education in educational leadership (Ed.D), all from William Carey University, Hattiesburg, Miss.
HHLS serves grades PK-4 through 12th and infants through PK-3 in the Early Childhood Center. For over 25 years, its mission has been to provide students with Christ-centered teaching and excellent academics that prepare them for service to God, community, and family.
