GOVERNANCE & LEADERSHIP
Letter from our
Head of School
It is a true blessing and honor to serve as Head of School at Laurence Manning Academy — a school with a rich history, proud traditions, and a legacy of excellence. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to build on that legacy and lead LMA into a future where our values, spirit, and achievements shine brighter than ever. This is our school. This is our family. This is ours to cherish.
Our foundation will always be rooted in family and Christian principles. LMA is — and will always be — a place where faculty, staff, students, parents, siblings, alumni, and community members feel welcomed, valued, and loved. I want every person who steps onto our campus to “feel it” — that sense of warmth, belonging, and purpose that comes from our shared faith. The traditions we hold dear, the relationships we build, and the community we share are ours to cherish. Every interaction here should reflect our commitment to glorify God in both word and action.
We believe in setting the bar high for our students — in academics, athletics, the arts, and in personal character. From their first day to their graduation, we pour into them the tools, knowledge, and values they need to live with integrity, work hard, and pursue excellence. Every classroom, competition, performance, and milestone is an opportunity to create memories worth cherishing and to prepare the next generation to carry our legacy forward. Whether their path leads to college, a career, or service, our goal is that every student leaves LMA prepared for the next chapter of life.
Our athletes will represent LMA with sportsmanship and pride while striving for championships. Our artists and performers will continue to inspire with creativity and excellence. In every endeavor, we want the Laurence Manning name to be synonymous with quality, character, and achievement. We will celebrate what makes our school special while always remembering that the privilege of being a Swampcat is something to cherish.
This is a journey we will take together — faculty, families, alumni, and community — united in helping our students succeed. We are not simply building for today; we are caring for something that has been entrusted to us by those who came before and will be carried forward by those who come after. I truly believe that with our shared commitment, Laurence Manning Academy will set a standard for generations to come.
Head of School Mr. Allen Kirby pictured with his wife, Abbie, and their children, Cal (age 10) & Caroline (age 6)
It is a privilege to lead this remarkable school, and I will never take that responsibility for granted. I am excited for the future, thankful for this community, and proud to call myself a Swampcat.
Proud Swampcat since 2025
Allen Kirby, Head of School
Contact Mr. Kirby
ADMINISTRATION & SUPPORT STAFF
Visit our Lower School, Middle School, and High School pages to meet grade-level faculty and staff.
You may also visit our Employee Directory for an alphabetical list of all employees.
DIRECTORS
BOARD OF
The LMA Board of Trustees is made up of nine board members who rotate terms of service on the board. The 2026-2027 board members (pictured right) include:
Mr. Don Cagney Brunson, Jr. (Chairman)
Mr. Joseph King Coffey
Mr. Steven Gamble
Mrs. Michelle C. Hodge
Mrs. Jennifer M. Jackson
Mr. Gary Curtis Lee, Jr.
Mr. Myles Bennett Lee
Mr. Douglas Paul Newman, Jr.
Mr. Joseph Stukes

