Robert Burris

Background

About Robert Burris

Dr. Robert Burris serves as the Head of School for Maryville Christian School in Maryville, TN since June 2025. Previously he led Lakewood Park Christian School in Auburn, Indiana. He was appointed to that post in August 2018. Under his leadership, the PK3-12 school experienced year-over-year double-digit growth, expanding both its experiential and advanced education offerings while maintaining a focus on academic rigor anchored in a faith foundation. During his tenure, he improved financial stability and conducted extensive campus facility improvements for athletics, the arts, and academics. LPCS was awarded Best Private School, Best Principal, and Best Teacher awards for the Fort Wayne Newspapers Readers’ Choice competition for the 2022-23, 2023-24, and 2024-25 school years. Dr. Burris received his undergraduate degree from Liberty University in Virginia and his Master's and Doctorate degrees from the University of Central Florida. Over the past 20+ years in Christian education, his roles have included school counselor, middle/high school teacher, dean of students, high school principal, and Founder/President of the Atlanta Christian School Association. He is currently an accreditation commissioner for the Association of Christian Schools International, chairman of the Board of Directors for the National Institute for Learning Development, a member of the Board of Directors for the DeKalb County Chamber of Commerce, and a Ph.D. advisor to doctoral students at Columbia International University. Known for his subject matter expertise, Dr. Burris is a seasoned Head of School with a demonstrated history in the education management industry. He is an effective professional skilled in K-12 education, classroom management, marketing, development, fund-raising, the design and execution of master facility plans, strategic road maps, program expansion, and curriculum revision. He is a creative visionary passionate about guiding and inspiring students toward relevant, challenging, and experiential growth in a collaborative environment. He has an extensive background in accreditation processes, teacher development and training, and academic rigor. A travel enthusiast, Dr. Burris continues to lead student adventures and has logged two decades of trips ranging from the canyons of Arizona to the rain forests of Costa Rica and the beaches of Normandy to the castles of England and Scotland. His interests include spending time with family, reading, and gardening. He and his wife, also an educator, have four daughters and reside in Maryville, TN.