Jeremy Tipton: Advancing Christ-Centered Education at FCS

Tell us a little about yourself. 

I am a follower of Jesus Christ. In 2008, I married the love of my life, Shannon. We have been blessed with three incredible daughters, Katie (14), Bethany (14), and Eve (10).  I was born and raised in a small town just outside of Berryville, Virginia.  After attending college, I managed a private health club in Charlottesville, Virginia, for two years while my wife worked as an operating room nurse. After our twins were born, we moved back to be near family, and I took a teaching position.  I have worked full-time in public education for fourteen years as a teacher and an administrator.  Four years ago, we made the decision to begin homeschooling our children, and we did so using a Christian Classical model.  Unbeknownst to us, this was the start of our family's journey to the Faith Christian School community.

What post-secondary schools did you attend? Degrees held? 

• James Madison University: Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology 
• University of Virginia: Master of Education in Adapted Physical Education 
• Shenandoah University: Professional Studies Certificate in Educational Leadership

Have you taught or been involved in schools somewhere else prior to FCS? If so, where, and how long? 

• Part-time Adapted Physical Education Teacher - Nelson County Public Schools (1 year)
• Adapted Physical Education Teacher; General Physical Education Teacher; Elementary Dean - Loudoun County Public Schools (14 years)

What are your hobbies or things you enjoy outside of school? 

I love being outdoors! I enjoy hiking, hunting, and fishing. I have had the amazing opportunity to coach my daughters in various sports in which they have participated.

What or who inspired you to work in education?  

There have been many people (parents, teachers, coaches) who have encouraged me over the years to pursue working with children. I have always found myself working with young children through camps, coaching, teaching, and other programs. 

What do you find most compelling or distinct about Christian classical education? 

I have worked full-time in public schools over the past fourteen years. My first introduction to Christian Classical Education has been through my own children's homeschool education. I have been able to see firsthand the comparison between the two models and the impact a classical education has had on my own children. The emphasis on God as the center of education and the connection of all subjects back to Him is what I find most encouraging for the students and families at Faith Christian School.

What do you love about the idea of teaching at Faith Christian School or what do you anticipate appreciating most about Faith Christian School?

I am looking forward to being part of a school community that openly allows Christ to be at the center of its education. I love that my children will be a part of this community!

What's a favorite book you've read?

• The Coffee Bean: A Simple Lesson to Create Positive Change by Jon Gordon

How many books do you have stacked on your bedside table or in your "To Read" pile?

Since applying for and accepting this position, my stack of books has grown and is mostly centered around classical education. Previously, I enjoyed reading books on development and leadership. The constant has been a two-year Bible reading plan that our church congregation has been collectively doing.

If you have a "life verse" or a verse that is ministering to you right now, what might it be? 

Philippians 4:6- “Do not be anxious about anything,  but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”