Meet Our Principal

Dr. Dawn Kirven

Dr. Kirven

The mission of Maranatha Christian School is to provide quality education in a Christ-centered environment in order to reach students for Christ and EQUIP them to SERVE God and IMPACT the world through Biblical thought and action.

Dr. Dawn Kirven

Dr. Dawn Kirven is the principal at Maranatha Christian School and is well-respected by the students, parents, and faculty. She is known for her dedication, fairness, and passion for her students spiritual and educational future. Dr. Kirven is always available to listen to concerns and offers advice when needed. Under her leadership, Maranatha has established strong academic achievements along with more effective opportunities for students and teachers. The 2023-2024 school year holds many opportunities for our students, and she is excited to implement them.

Dr. Kirven received a bachelor’s degree in music education in 1995 from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro with a full scholarship as a North Carolina Teaching Fellow. She also received a master’s degree in education from Southern Wesleyan University in 2007. After completing her internship at Maranatha Christian School and John W. Moore Intermediate School, she received her Principal license from Capella University in 2019 and a PhD in Educational Leadership and Administration from Capella University in 2021.

(right) Dr. Kirven being awarded her PhD in Educational Leadership and Administration from Capella University.

Did You Know?

Maranatha Christian School serves 278 students in grades preK-12th. MCS is a member of the American Association of Christian Schools (AACS) and the State or regional independent school association.

MCS has equipped, served, and impacted generations of young people with excellent Christ-centered education for more than 50 years! Because of this, many of our alumni have enrolled their children and grandchildren at MCS.

We changed our curriculum, and it is phenomenal! The Bob Jones Press is not just scripture based—it is also academically sound. Our materials use hands-on-learning, creative problem solving, and other research-proven instructional strategies to motivate students to take an active role in learning and to master age-appropriate material.

MCS not only has an excellent Christ-centered educational program, but we also have a great community. MCS has many school wide events that bring students, teachers, and parents together. Educational theme days, programs, field trips, and spirit day. The list is on-going! We see the importance of keeping our students engaged, always learning, and getting involved with our community.

MCS takes the safety of our students and faculty extremely serious. We practice school drills and conduct detailed lock down drills with the Florence County Sheriff’s Office. We have an EMT on campus and our staff are CPR & First Aid trained. Our facility is watched by over 100 cameras in and out of the building and is locked 24/7 which makes entry only accessible for those who obtain a key fob.

MCS has a great athletic program and offers sport opportunities for grades 1st-12th. Our Performing Arts program competes against other Christian Schools in the southeast region at the competition every March. Our electives are unique as we offer culinary arts, Technology, STEM, performing/visual arts, Aviation, Yearbook, Weightlifting, and Life Skills. We understand our seniors need electives that will benefit their future. Teachers for Tomorrow (dual credit through Bob Jones University) is provided and other beneficial programs that will set a straighter road in their career path. Dave Ramsey and other similar programs are used to help provide a solid financial foundation for years to come.

Our theme this year is to “Reignite” and to get on fire for God like never before. We are staying strong to support our Mission Statement to provide quality education in a Christ-centered environment in order to reach students FOR Christ and equip them to serve God and impact the world through Biblical thought and action. The three words: EQUIP, SERVE, and IMPACT will guide us as we strive for spiritual and academic excellence. We remain strong with an amazing team for the 2023-2024 school year.

Demo Title

Demo Description


Introducing your First Popup.
Customize text and design to perfectly suit your needs and preferences.

This will close in 20 seconds