Oakbrook announces Andy Bell as Head of School

With great excitement and gratitude, the Oakbrook Prep Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Mr. Andrew “Andy” Bell will serve as Oakbrook’s next Head of School, beginning July 1. After much prayer and an extensive search process, we are confident that God has led us to the ideal leader to strengthen Oakbrook as a Christ-centered school committed to academic excellence and nurturing the whole child.

Mr. Bell brings over 30 years of experience in education as a coach, teacher of Economics and Sociology, department leader, and administrator. He joins us from Christian School of York (CSY) in Pennsylvania, where he has served as Superintendent and CEO for the past seven years. His deep passion for Christian education, commitment to building strong school communities, and dedication to creating environments where students thrive academically and spiritually make him an exceptional fit for Oakbrook.

When Mr. Bell arrived at CSY in 2018, the school faced significant financial and enrollment challenges. Under his visionary leadership, enrollment grew from 179 to over 550 students, nearly $1 million in debt was eliminated, and the school’s financial position was significantly strengthened—growing its cash balance from under $180,000 to more than $3 million.

A guiding principle in Mr. Bell’s life and leadership comes from Colossians 3:23: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” He sees education not just as a profession but as a calling—one that compels him to serve students, families, and teachers with excellence. He is eager to bring this passion to Oakbrook and looks forward to becoming part of a community that shares his commitment to Christ-centered education.

"One thing that became immediately clear to me when I stepped on campus is that Oakbrook is a special place—one that feels like family to so many,” said Mr. Bell. “It is my prayer that God has called me here for such a time as this, to help guide and lead the school to newfound heights. I truly believe Oakbrook has the potential to be South Carolina’s premier school for Christian education."

Mr. Bell and his wife, Heidi, have three daughters: Megan (26), Emma (21), and Rylie (18). Their family is excited to join the Oakbrook community, and we can’t wait for you to meet them!

We are incredibly thankful for our Search Committee, the team at NextEd, and all who prayed over this process. Their dedication, wisdom, and discernment have been instrumental in leading us to this moment.

Please join us in warmly welcoming Mr. Bell and his family to Oakbrook! We look forward to the exciting future ahead as we continue our mission of shaping students who will impact the world for Christ.