Introduction
In a year that signals both growth and renewed purpose, Pusch Ridge Christian Academy — a well-known classical Christian school in Tucson, Arizona — has announced leadership developments that aim to strengthen its mission for the future. These changes come as part of the Academy’s strategic efforts to deepen its commitment to Christian education, support its expanding student body, and align its governance and administrative teams for long-term success. Building on its mission to “teach students to become like Christ,” PRCA continues to lead the way in faith-based education through thoughtful leadership planning and community engagement.
Understanding the Leadership Structure at Pusch Ridge Christian Academy
Pusch Ridge’s leadership blends spiritual vision with educational excellence. The school’s administrative framework includes a School Board, Head of Schools, campus principals, and key directors who oversee daily operations and strategic priorities.
School Board and Governance
The School Board plays a foundational role in shaping broad policies, guiding mission adherence, and ensuring fiscal stewardship. Board members provide governance, not operational direction, allowing education professionals to focus on daily delivery of high-quality learning rooted in faith and classical methodology. This cooperative leadership model forms the backbone of the Academy’s consistent progress toward its long-term goals. Atholton News
Head of Schools & Administrative Leadership
At the core of leadership is John Tyler, who serves as Head of Schools, offering spiritual and administrative guidance across all campuses. His leadership is supported by an experienced administrative team which includes:
- Campus Principals
- Directors of Academics, Operations, Admissions, Athletics, and more
Together, these leaders ensure that the school’s educational, operational, and spiritual goals are carried out in unity and excellence. Atholton News
Key Leadership Updates for 2026
While no major overhaul has been publicly announced for 2026, incremental adjustments and strategic appointments within the leadership team are in progress as part of the Academy’s long-term planning.
Here are highlights of leadership continuity and change:
1. Strategic Vision for the Future
Pusch Ridge Christian Academy’s leadership recently emphasized its Strategic Plan 2030, which outlines key institutional priorities focused on community growth, faculty support, and faithful mission execution.
This forward-looking strategy supports leadership decisions and growth initiatives, ensuring that administrative development aligns with mission fulfillment.
2. Board Member Roles and Renewals
The 2025–2026 school board comprises a diverse group of committed leaders who bring different perspectives and contributions. These board members work together to support PRCA’s direction with a focus on spiritual integrity and long-term stability.
3. Administrative Leadership Enhancements
The Academy benefits from a strong team of directors and principals, with updates reflecting growth in academic, operational, and student-support functions. New projects, staffing shifts, and expanded roles enrich the leadership structure for improved oversight and student experience.
How Leadership Impacts Students and Families
Leadership changes at Pusch Ridge Christian Academy are not merely organizational; they offer real impact on students, families, and the broader community. Effective leaders shape school culture, support teachers, and create environments where students thrive academically, spiritually, and socially.
Here’s how these updates benefit the PRCA community:
- Consistent Mission Focus: Leadership ensures that every decision strengthens the school’s mission and biblical values.
- Educational Quality: Strong academic leadership ensures high standards across classical learning programs.
- Student Support: Directors of guidance, operations, and culture enhance student experiences beyond basic classroom instruction.
- Community Engagement: Leadership involvement in community partnerships, governance, and prayer partnerships nourish a sense of belonging and shared purpose.
Leadership at a Glance: 2026 Key Roles and Responsibilities
To help you understand the current leadership landscape, below is a clear and useful table outlining core leaders and their primary responsibilities at Pusch Ridge Christian Academy for 2026:
| Role | Name | Primary Responsibility |
| Head of Schools | John Tyler | Oversees spiritual and academic mission of PRCA across all campuses. |
| Board Chair | Wesley Mehl | Leads the School Board, ensuring mission integrity and financial oversight. |
| High School Principal | Jordan Raikes | Academic and student life leadership for upper grades. |
| Middle School Principal | Brian Rafacz | Oversees middle school academics and community life. |
| Grammar Campus Principal | Christine Moon | Leads instructional and pastoral care for elementary program. |
| South Campus Principal | Jonathon Basurto | Manages Dual Language Immersion and K-4 campus. |
| Director of Academics | Jason Clapero | Supports curriculum development and teacher leadership. |
| Director of Admissions | Valerie Turner | Guides enrollment strategies and family onboarding. |
| Director of Athletics | Amy Garnand | Champions student athletics and wellness programs. |
(Note: This table reflects leadership roles and responsibilities supported by the most recent publicly available information.)
Leadership Trends at PRCA: What’s Next?
As Pusch Ridge Christian Academy steps into 2026, several trends are shaping its leadership and educational direction:
Focus on Faculty Development
Leadership is prioritizing the recruitment and retention of excellent teachers who can deliver consistent classical and Christian education — a central theme in its 2030 vision.
Community Collaboration
Partnerships between leaders, families, and church communities are valued as foundational to students’ spiritual and academic journeys.
Holistic Student Experiences
Under the guidance of its leadership team, PRCA continues to support athletics, fine arts, and student programs that help develop well-rounded graduates ready to engage the world.
Conclusion
The leadership updates announced by Pusch Ridge Christian Academy for 2026 reflect thoughtful planning, enduring commitment, and faith-centered purpose. While major structural or personnel shifts were not publicly disclosed in detail this year, PRCA’s leadership framework demonstrates continuity and a shared passion for nurturing students academically and spiritually. With support from a dedicated school board, experienced administrators, and engaged community members, the Academy continues to pursue excellence within its Christian mission.
Students can check out the latest Updates Atholton News