Michael Goddard, Ed. D.

Superintendent of PCA School Systems

Dr. Goddard’s professional experience of more than three decades is characterized by positivity, energetic encouragement, a pursuit of excellence, and a passion for inspiring excellence in those around him. Prior to his work as the Lovejoy Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Goddard served as Superintendent of the Red Oak Independent School District and as Assistant Superintendent of Prosper Independent School District, where he oversaw the growth of that district from 3,000 to 12,000 students. He also served as an administrator with the McKinney Independent School District. Dr. Goddard was a nominee for National Superintendent of the Year, and districts under his leadership have consistently performed at the highest levels of academic and co-curricular pursuits. He was also recently named the Top Large Company CEO in 2020 by The Dallas Morning News for his exemplary leadership of the Lovejoy school system.

Dr. Goddard is a Nationally Certified Trainer for Vital Smarts – Crucial Conversations and Crucial Accountability, a Certified Jon Gordon Power of Positive Leadership Coach, and an Internationally Certified John Maxwell Speaker, Trainer, and Coach. He is a highly sought-after speaker throughout the country. The Goddards are longtime members of Prestonwood Baptist Church. In fact, he and his wife, Dena, met in the Singles Ministry when Prestonwood was located on Hillcrest.

“I have known Dr. Goddard for about 30 years and have always admired his personal and professional integrity, high-energy leadership style and superb communication skills,” said Dr. Jack Graham, Pastor of Prestonwood. “I truly believe he is God’s man for this role as we begin a new chapter in the PCA School System. I am grateful for Dr. Goddard’s passion for Christ, for Kingdom education, and for instilling the love of both into our students.”

Dr. Goddard earned his Ed.D. in post-secondary administration from University of North Texas (2004), Ed.M. with an emphasis in counseling and student services from University of North Texas (2000) and B.A. in communications from Stephen F. Austin State University (1994.)

Shailendra Thomas, Ed. D.

Head of School

Dr. Thomas’ experience in education extends over 30 years, serving as elementary school teacher, instructional specialist, educational consultant and adjunct college professor, Sr. Administrator/Principal at Fellowship Christian Academy and Scofield Christian School, Dallas Co-Director of the Texas Private School Association, and Regional/National Accreditation Commissioner and Field Director for the Association of Christian Schools International. Under Dr. Thomas’ leadership, Fellowship Christian Academy received its’ initial accreditation status from the Association of Christian Schools International and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, expanded to middle school, implemented a college preparatory curriculum, successfully incorporated computer technology into the adopted school curriculum, and experienced exponential growth.

During her service at Scofield Christian School (SCS), she worked to accomplish the school’s mission of providing children with an academically challenging education that was well-balanced, comprehensive, and integrated with Biblical truths and principles within a nurturing, Christ-centered environment. As Head of School at SCS, Dr. Thomas and the faculty strategically grew enrollment 61 percent.

Dr. Thomas is currently the inaugural Head of School of The King’s Academy. She is excited about the opportunity to offer an exemplary education to youth in the Southern sector of Dallas. Dr. Thomas believes that education involves more than a child’s intellectual abilities; it should ultimately inspire learners to fulfill God’s purpose in their lives.

In her spare time, she enjoys reading, writing, entertaining, teaching Bible courses to women and couples, speaking, and traveling. Dr. Thomas co-authored two Amazon best-selling new releases in children’s books, titled “Image Bearer” and “Genesis: The Beginning”. However, Dr. Thomas’ primary ministry is to her husband of forty years, Richard, three grown daughters, Lorren, Hillary (son-in-love Dorian), and Chelsea, and two grandchildren, Landon Blake and Berkley Sarai.

Rebecca Harsila

Director of Development

Rebecca serves as the primary leader in the creation, implementation, and management of the annual giving strategy. She brings 16 years of experience in nonprofit development, which includes collaboration with individuals, corporations, government agencies, and nonprofit partners. Most recently, Rebecca served as Executive Director of Carry The Load, a fast-growing, grassroots, movement aimed at creating awareness and a public recommitment to honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. She launched Carry The Load in 2011 alongside two local Navy SEALS. The charity thrives today and at this time has raised over $25 million toward its mission and worthy nonprofits directly serving military, firefighters, police, and first responders. Rebecca received recognition from the Communities Foundation of Texas and Blackbaud company for the most organic growth by a nonprofit during her time leading Carry The Load.

A native Texan, she is a graduate of Texas Tech University and began her career shortly after at the Baylor Tom Landry Center and had an opportunity to hone her skills in event logistics during a stint living in Heidelberg, Germany. Rebecca trained in nonprofit development working for the American Heart Association – Dallas Division raising critical funds and handling all aspects for one of the top two Heart Walks in the nation and later went out on her own to support several nonprofits. While freelancing, she spent several years developing the fundraising efforts and event production for the Dallas Global Proclamation Academy of Global Pastors for RREACH, located on the Campus of Dallas Theological Seminary.