For almost a decade, Chris Lewis has closely monitored Virtus Academy’s evolution, intrigued by the school’s unwavering optimism and growth and the effectiveness of its Project-Based Learning curriculum and charter school structure.
“I’ve long admired Virtus Academy from an outside perspective, and now I am thrilled to be joining its stellar team of administrators and educators,” Lewis said. “The Pee Dee region isn’t fully aware of the unique learning opportunities available at Virtus, and I’m eager to share this information with the community.”
A Florence native with degrees from the University of South Carolina, Webster University, and the American Military University, Lewis’s career has been a testament to his unwavering dedication to education and youth development. As a former head of the Florence Boys & Girls Club and a teacher at schools in Florence and Williamsburg Counties, his passion for shaping young minds is evident.
He’s also been a middle and high school coach, coaching basketball teams for 14 years and baseball teams for three. Now that he’s a member of the Wolf Pack, he thinks adding a golf team would be a positive addition to the athletics program.
“No matter what you do, I believe everything starts with relationships,” he said. “And I look forward to building them with our students and my new extended family as we work together to enrich the lives of our scholars.”
Motivated by Virtus Academy’s forward-thinking leadership style, Lewis noted the rarity of educators who are open to new ideas and committed to helping students reach their full potential. He joins the school at a pivotal moment of growth, with the opening of a new high school and gymnasium this fall.
“Besides supporting students’ academic and extracurricular goals, I want to boost achievement by broadening their exposure to real-world careers and experiences through job shadowing, guest speakers, field trips, and course certifications,” he said. “I’m ready to hit the ground running.”
Chris has been married to his wife, Chrystal, for 20 years, and they are the proud parents of five children.
