Jonathan Lancaster selected next Head of School at FPDS
Jonathan Lancaster has been selected as the next Head of School at First Presbyterian Day School in Jackson.
With the guidance and support of the Center for the Advancement of Christian Education (CACE), a search committee met with several outstanding local candidates and leaders at Christian schools in Tennessee, Florida, and Washington.
The committee also sought feedback from the larger Day School community through surveys, “coffee and conversations” gatherings, and focus groups. “Your heartfelt input also helped guide us in our search,” the school said in an email to parents on Tuesday.
“Throughout the search, we focused on seeking a leader who values Christian education and has a dedication to academic excellence,” the announcement went on to say.
“After multiple in-depth interviews, we are confident that Mr. Lancaster is the best person to lead the school and come alongside our elementary education experts in preparing our students for future service in God’s Kingdom.”
Lancaster is a Jackson native and earned a Bachelor of Accountancy and a Master's in Business Administration at Mississippi State University. He worked in the financial sector before joining the nonprofit world as Senior Accountant for the United Way of Greater Atlanta.
Lancaster currently serves as the Chief Financial Officer at We Will Go Ministries in Jackson, a ministry very dear to FPDS, officials said.
During his tenure, he helped lead the organization through a season of extraordinary growth while serving many families in need with the love of Christ.
“His life reflects a deep commitment to the gospel and a heart for raising up the next generation to know and follow Jesus,” the announcement said.
“Mr. Lancaster joins us with a deep love for Christ, a heart for discipleship, and a proven record of leadership in both ministry and organizational development.”
Beyond his professional qualifications, what impresses the search committee is his humility, warmth, and commitment to building strong, unified teams.
He has served as a deacon and small group leader at Redeemer Church, and has a clear heart for nurturing both children and adults in the faith. His approach to leadership is collaborative, thoughtful, and firmly rooted in Scripture.
Lancaster is married to Frances (Carter) Lancaster, a Day School alumna, and they have one son, Charlie, who is currently in the FPDS K2 program. They are anticipating the birth of their second child this summer.
Lancaster is eager to dive into the life of our FPDS community. His first official day will be May 15.
Officials said they were excited that he will join us this week for both Awards Days and Field Day.
On May 15 at 7:30 a.m. FPDS will host its final “Coffee and Conversations” of the year, where officials hope parents can stop by to introduce themselves to Mr. Lancaster.
“We thank God for his blessings on First Presbyterian Day School, and we remain grateful for your continued prayers and support,” said Dr. David Elkin, FPDS board chairman.