Principal

Title: Principal
Location: Carleton, Michigan - St. Patrick Catholic School pk-8
Start Date: July 1, 2026

Overview

Founded in 1848, St. Patrick Catholic School is a Christ-centered, Spirit-filled community dedicated to academic excellence and faith formation under a classical Catholic School model. Rooted in Sacred Scripture and Catholic tradition, we integrate faith in Jesus Christ in every class, as we foster an environment grounded in love, respect, and the dignity of every individual.

St. Patrick Catholic School seeks a dynamic, collaborative educational leader who will sustain and strengthen our outstanding academic and faith-based programs while advancing the school's mission in a rural/small town setting.

Mission

Our mission is that every member of the St. Patrick School community encounters Jesus, grows in Him, and witnesses to others through a Christ-centered academic environment.

Position Summary

The principal serves as the chief administrator of the school, responsible for daily operations and long-term institutional advancement. This includes strategic planning, spiritual leadership, academic excellence, operational management, financial stewardship, and enrollment growth.

Primary Responsibilities

Religious and Spiritual Leadership

• Uphold and promote the philosophy of Catholic education and the school's mission
• Serve as a visible witness to Gospel values and Catholic teachings
• Foster a strong Catholic identity throughout the parish and the school community
• Ensure adherence to policies of the Archdiocese of Detroit
• Promote liturgical life, faith formation, and Christian service opportunities
• Ensure religion curriculum aligns with Archdiocesan standards
• Oversee certification and formation of religion teachers

Academic Leadership

• Ensure implementation of a rigorous and engaging classical education curriculum
• Supervise instruction and evaluate program effectiveness
• Maintain accreditation through Michigan Association of Non-Public Schools (MANS)
• Lead professional development for faculty and staff in both academics and faith formation

Strategic and Visionary Leadership

• Identify and implement initiatives for continuous school improvement along with the parish pastor
• To set and achieve strategic goals through consultation with the school committee
• Lead advancement efforts and cultivate external partnerships and resources

School Operations

• Oversee school schedules, calendars, and daily operations
• Hire, supervise, evaluate, and (when necessary) terminate staff in collaboration with the parish pastor, in accordance with Archdiocesan policies
• Maintain accurate records and ensure policy compliance
• Oversee facilities, including maintenance and long-term planning
• Implement and manage school safety protocols.

Financial Management

• Develop and manage the annual school budget in consultation with the parish pastor and bookkeeper.
• Oversee expenditures and ensure responsible financial stewardship
• Allocate resources effectively to support the school mission and priorities
• Monitor financial performance and identify cost efficiencies in consultation with the parish bookkeeper

Advancement and Community Relations

• Collaborate with pastors and parish communities to strengthen faith and engagement
• Model professionalism and strong leadership presence in the school and parish
• Communicate effectively with students, families, staff, and stakeholders
• Foster a strong sense of community and partnership among families

Enrollment and Marketing

• Lead student recruitment, retention, and enrollment initiatives
• Partner with admissions and marketing efforts to promote the school
• Strengthen the school's visibility and reputation in the broader community

Qualifications

• Leadership or administrative experience in a Catholic school setting
• Familiarity with or experience in classical education
• Master's degree in educational leadership or related field
• Practicing Catholic in good standing

Application Process

To apply, please visit the Archdiocese of Detroit website.

For more information about the school, please visit St. Patrick Catholic School in Carleton, Michigan.