Leading in an era of educational transformation, Chip Houston has served as Head of Upper School, Head of Middle School, and Director of Admissions at Mount Vernon Presbyterian School, one of the top innovative schools in the country. A native Atlantan, Chip is currently working towards his Doctorate in Education Leadership at the University of Georgia. The focus of his dissertation and action research is the practical application of MBE (Mind, Brain, Education) science. His team is currently implementing a new modular schedule, increasing its capacity for standards and competency based grading systems as part of the Mastery Transcript Consortium, and preparing to move into a new Upper School building.

Passionate about coaching and professional development, Chip and his teammates have conducted hundreds of observations and debriefs since 2013 using their approach to instructional rounds.

For the 2015-2016 school year, the Middle School team launched a series of initiatives designed to ‘expand the learning measures’ for both students and teachers comprised of badging, e-portfolios, student led conferences, and innovative assessment. Co-chairing the Social Science R & D (Research and Design) team since 2011, Chip has led teachers to vertically align learning outcomes, research best practices, and create innovative approaches to teaching and learning such as Mount Vernon’s themed Freedom and Conflict courses.

Looking for ways to strengthen community, Chip shares his learning through blogging, tweeting, as well as has served as a board member for Leadership Sandy Springs, an advisory committee member for Youth Leadership Sandy Springs, and was nominated by his peers to be the commencement speaker of the Leadership Sandy Springs Class of 2014. As a member of Mount Vernon’s 5-year strategic planning committee, Chip chaired the diversity committee and helped to craft two strategic plans: MVx and iPlan17. 

A former TAG department chair and classroom teacher, Chip served students, colleagues, and families in public middle and high schools for 10 years before becoming an administrator. He has earned three advanced degrees; a Bachelor of Social Science degree in Secondary Education from the University of Georgia, a Master of Education Leadership from Kennesaw State University, and a Specialist Degree in Education Leadership from Georgia College and State University. Certifications include Gifted Endorsement, Advanced Placement World History, and Leadership.

Twitter: @Chiphouston1976