Elementary School Principal

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRINCIPAL

The principal-minister, under the pastor, is responsible for the total functioning of the school. He/she has a threefold responsibility as religious leader, educational leader, and manager of the total school program. This commission between the parish and the school is a mandate for the principal-minister to serve in these roles. 

The principal-minister serves primarily as one who inspires and guides the staff in the creation of an integrated entity of a faith community within a program of academic excellence. Therefore, the principal-minister needs to assume responsibility for the on-going Christian formation and religious development of the teacher-ministers as well as the students. It is the primary role of the principal to articulate and implement the unique mission of the school.

QUALIFICATIONS

1. In order to carry out the roles expected of a principal-minister of a Catholic school, the principal-minister must be a practicing Catholic whose faith and lifestyle model a commitment to the tenets of the Church. 

O.C.S.A.A. Standard II states the following: 

a. The governing authority and chief administrator of the school shall establish and communicate the school’s mission, philosophy, direction, priorities, and strategies for addressing stakeholder needs, especially those of students. In addition, he/she will serve as a positive role model, reinforce best practices, and provide strong leadership. 

b. The elements of a Catholic leadership system that will guide a high performing district or school include: 

1) strong Catholic identity; 

2) a student-focused environment; 

3) high expectations for student and organizational performance, individual student and staff development, initiative, innovation, and a commitment to continuous improvement. 

2. To assume the role of religious leader for the school, the principal-minister must also complete both the Catholic School Orientation program (CSO) and the Basic Level Catechetical Certification offered through the Mysterium Christi Diocesan Institute. 

3. The principal-minister must hold at least a bachelor's degree and an Ohio administrative certificate. Administrators holding a non-tax license only must complete, every five years, continuing education units or graduate credit comparable to state requirements for renewal of an administrator’s license. (cf. Appendix 2500 Principal’s Handbook) 

4.  Must successfully pass the required BCI/FBI background check prior to employment and every five years.