Basic Function: 
The Catholic School Principal, by delegated authority of the Bishop and the North Hills Regional Catholic Elementary Schools, is responsible for implementing the policies and practices of the Department for Catholic Schools. The role of the Principal is primarily one of spiritual and instructional leadership. The Principal endeavors to create a school climate that focuses on the development of Gospel values, positive self-image, and academic excellence. The Principal acts as a catalyst in fostering a Community of Faith among clergy, teachers, staff, parents, and students.  
 
The Principal, as leader in the Catholic school, has the unique privilege and responsibility for providing a Christ-centered school atmosphere in which each child can progress spiritually, academically, socially, and physically in accordance with the God-given gifts of the individual student.  
 
Responsibilities and Tasks 
 Worship 
The Principal:

1. Collaborates with other appropriate members of the staff to assure quality prayer and liturgical celebration opportunities for the school community;

 

2. Oversees the appropriate provision of sacramental preparation programs and of sacramental reception for students of the school community, where applicable.

 

Education 

The Principal:

1. Provides opportunities for in‐service in spiritual and educational development for the staff;
2. Directs, supervises, evaluates, and improves all areas of the curriculum; and
3. Provides staff development for the faculty.

 
Pastoral Services The Principal:

1. Encourages interaction between and among faculty, staff, and students by encouraging a climate conducive to the development of spiritual, personal, and professional growth;
2. Collaborates with host parish, regional staff, and diocesan personnel in planning and implementing programs for a total integrated approach to catechesis;
3. Communicates effectively with the Department for Catholic Schools, Host Pastor, Regional Staff, Advisory Councils, parents, faculty, students, and civic community as appropriate;
4. Establishes positive relationships with the civic community by encouraging the school participation in local programs.

 
 
 

Administration 

As administrator, instructional and faith leader, the Principal:

1. Observes and evaluates teaching personnel;
2. Collaborates with the Regional Superintendent and staff to determine policies that are consistent with the regulations of the Department for Catholic Schools;
3. Maintains close cooperation among those involved in the governance of the school.
4. Articulates the philosophy and objectives of Catholic education as stated in the teachings of the Church and by the diocesan bishop;
5. Monitors the acquisition of Ministry Certification, Induction, and Pennsylvania Instructional II certification of teachers;
6. Prepares and submits required reports for the Diocesan Schools Office and Regional Board;
7. Oversees the maintenance and safety of school facilities;
8. Supervises the implementation of a program for Catholic Identity, the Middle States Accreditation process, and diocesan curriculum guidelines;
9. Supervises and evaluates instruction according to Diocesan policy.
10. Plans and presents orientation for new teachers and paraprofessionals;
11. Participates in the preparation of the annual school budget;
12. Assists in establishing the tuition policy of the school;
13. Cooperates with fundraising projects for the school;
14. Communicates with the local public school administration;
15. Monitors recruitment and retention of students; and
16. Participates in the long-range planning for the school.

 

Qualities 

Effective functioning in this ministry requires a love for learning. An openness to differing opinions and views, especially concerning the Principal's role as administrator of curriculum, pedagogy and educational policies are needed. The Principal should also relate well to children, adolescents and adults, and can coordinate a staff of dedicated teachers to achieve mutually agreed‐upon goals.
 

Competencies and Skills 

1. Understanding of the philosophy of Catholic education, and the policies and programs which governs the Catholic school;
2. Understanding, as an instructional leader, of the patterns of growth in children and adolescents development and possessing a workable knowledge of learning theories;
3. Proficiency in curriculum development;
4. Knowledge of personal and interpersonal leadership styles; and
5. Understanding and appreciation of evaluation techniques for self and other personnel.

 
 

Formation, Training, and Criteria for Readiness 

Preparation for this ministry must follow the guidelines of the Department for Catholic Schools.
Some of the guidelines include:

1. Since the Principal is a faith leader as well as an academic leader, all Principals shall be practicing Catholics who have knowledge and understanding of the Catholic faith;
2. All Principals shall have a minimum of five years of successful teaching, preferably in a Catholic school, a master's degree in administration, and certification in administration;
3. All Principals shall be required to obtain Ministry Certification as determined by the Catholic Schools Office.
4. All Principals shall have a valid Pennsylvania Principal certificate.

 

Safe Environments for Children 

As with all positions that involve contact with children in the Diocese of Pittsburgh, this ministry Requires compliance with the Safe Environment Policy of the diocese.    
 

Catholic Identity And Mission Clause 

A signed copy of the Catholic Identity and Mission Clause must be kept on file for all Elementary School Principals.
 
To Apply: Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter and to Sharon Loughran Brown, NHRCES Interim Regional Superintendent: [email protected]