After more than three decades serving Shire Christian School in a range of leadership roles, Principal David Stonestreet will retire at the end of 2026.
Shire Christian School has announced that Principal David Stonestreet will retire at the end of 2026, bringing to a close a 35-year career at the Sydney school.
Board Chair John Ishak announced the retirement in a message to the school community, praising Mr Stonestreet’s long-standing commitment to Christian education and his leadership during a period of significant growth and change.
Mr Stonestreet joined Shire Christian School in 1992 as a music teacher and went on to serve in a range of senior leadership positions, including Head of Music, Head of Creative Arts, Director of Studies, Assistant Principal – Teaching and Learning, Director of ICT and Deputy Principal.
He was first appointed Principal in 2006 before stepping down in 2008 due to illness. After returning to the school in 2009, he resumed leadership roles before serving as Acting Principal in late 2021 and being appointed Principal again in 2022.
During the past five years, Mr Stonestreet has overseen the development of the school’s Learning Framework and Strategic Plan, while also leading the first stage of the campus masterplan, including new sports field and car park projects.
Mr Ishak said Mr Stonestreet had made an enduring contribution to the school community throughout his career.
“David has been part of the Shire Christian School community for 35 of its 50 years of operation. He is an experienced, devoted and much-loved Christian educator who has served our school faithfully in numerous roles since 1992.”
He also thanked Mr Stonestreet for his “Christ-centred leadership and commitment to the cause of Christian education”, noting that he had led an outstanding staff team in partnership with families to fulfil the school’s mission.
Mr Ishak said while Mr Stonestreet was retiring from school leadership, he expected him to continue serving his church and wider community.
“As many would attest, a Christian educator never truly retires from His service, it is only the place of work that changes,” he said.
The school said opportunities to celebrate Mr Stonestreet’s service will be held over the coming months.
Shire Christian School’s Board has commenced the recruitment process for a new principal, with a further update expected later this year.
From humble beginnings in 1977 with a vision to partner parents in the Christian education of their children, Shire Christian […]