ACSI Announces Elisa Carlson as the New Board Chair September 29, 2025

The Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) is pleased to announce Elisa Carlson as its new Board Chair. She will assume her duties Oct. 7. 

In this role, Carlson will lead the ACSI Board of Directors for a two-year term, ensuring proper board oversight and accountability so that the association effectively fulfills its mission to strengthen Christian schools and equip Christian educators worldwide. She will provide strategic leadership and spiritual oversight, helping to steward the association’s resources faithfully while guiding the board in effective, mission-aligned governance. 

  
ACSI President & CEO Dr. Larry Taylor expressed his excitement in the appointment of Elisa Carlson’s to serve in this role. 

“We are honored to welcome Elisa Carlson as the new Chair of the ACSI Board,” he said. “She has served faithfully on the board for several years and leads a fruitful member school in Oregon. Elisa brings exceptional wisdom, experience, and passion for Christian education, and we are confident that her leadership will help advance our mission worldwide. We are also grateful for former Board Chair Dr. Todd Marrah’s exceptional service and are glad that he will continue serving as an ACSI Board Member.”

Carlson brings over three decades of experience in both public and private schools. She currently serves as the Head of School at Central Christian School in Redmond, OR, and has served on the ACSI Board as Chair-elect. 

Carlson has also served on both the ACSI Global and Northwest Accreditation Commissions.  

She expressed her excitement and commitment to her new position.   

"I am grateful for the opportunity to serve as Board Chair and to work alongside such committed leaders who share a deep passion for advancing Kingdom education. As we move forward with Vision 2030, my focus is on keeping our eyes on the prize while seeking the Lord’s direction and discerning the best way ahead,” she said. “I’m eager to strengthen not only faithful governance and spiritual discernment, but also our growth as a truly global association. The goal is for Christian schools to flourish and, most importantly, for students to come alive in Christ. Whatever we can do as an association and board to foster that, the better."   

ACSI is confident that Carlson’s leadership will provide strong guidance to ensure the organization’s mission is fulfilled.