Announcing New Director of Arts, Eric Willoughby

We are pleased to announce that MPCS has selected Eric Willoughby as the new Director of Arts for Mount Paran Christian School. The search committee chose Mr. Willoughby at the conclusion of an extensive national search that included talented and experienced administrators from K-12, collegiate, and professional arts programs across the country. He replaces Cary Brague who retired in June after holding the position for 15 years.

Mr. Willoughby previously served as the Assistant Band Director at Lost Mountain Middle School. Following, he then served as the Director of Bands at Wheeler High School, Peachtree Ridge High School, and Woodland High School where he also served as the Fine Arts Department Chair, AP Coordinator, and Assistant Principal. Since 2023, Mr. Willoughby has worked for the Georgia Department of Education’s Educator Support and the Development Division, providing leadership development and instructional support for schools statewide.

Mr. Willoughby earned his Bachelor of Arts in Music Education at the University of Georgia, and his Master of Music in Music Education from the University of Southern Mississippi. He has served extensively in church ministry and won numerous teaching awards during his illustrious 30-year career. He brings a wealth of education and experience to MPCS, but most importantly, he believes passionately in the school’s mission to provide academic excellence in a Christ-centered environment. He and his wife Rebecca have been married for 32 years and have three children.

He shares, "I am deeply grateful for the Lord’s guidance in opening the door to this new opportunity. As I step into leadership of the arts at MPCS, I do so with a passion for creativity, innovation, and a commitment to Christ-centered excellence. Guided by the truth of Philippians 3:14, the principle of ‘Ever Onward and Upward’ reflects my desire to press forward with vision, perseverance, and faith. I’m honored to join this community and look forward to what God will do in and through the arts."