A familiar face has taken on a new role at Terra Ceia Christian School. With the retirement of former principal Vern Parsons, former TCCS history teacher Martin Gelderman has stepped into the position.

“I was encouraged to apply for the role of principal,” Gelderman said. “The transition has gone well, and things are falling into place. I’m enjoying my new role as administrator.”

A graduate of Dordt College, Gelderman has 36 years of experience in the classroom, with 18 years in Canada and 21 years at Terra Ceia. Gelderman takes on this new role as a first-time administrator. Moving forward, the new admin says he hopes to grow the school and build on a rich history of Christian education in the community.

“(We want) to grow, have students that graduate from Terra Ceia with a good, solid education,” Gelderman said.

Since 1937, when a group of locals formed the Terra Ceia Christian Society for Christian Education, the school has become a pillar of the community in Terra Ceia and a bastion of Christian education in the surrounding area. Today, the school has 115 students enrolled in its K-12 program.

“Christian education is paramount,” Gelderman said. “We believe in Christ-centered education.”

Terra Ceia Christian School is located at 4428 Christian School Road, Pantego. Gelderman can be reached at 252-943-2485. For more information on TCCS, visit www.tccschool.com.