What are the responsibilities and job description for the PRINCIPAL position at St. Theresa - Somerville?
St. Theresa of the Child Jesus School seeks a faith-inspired, innovative, and collaborative principal to join the school in its mission to provide an exceptional faith-based education for its students. The ideal candidate is a highly effective communicator and problem solver who is enthusiastic about addressing the challenges of providing access to Catholic education for all. The ideal candidate will be a key collaborator in developing and initiating a clear strategic vision for the school.
Founded in 1926 by Fr. James O’Brien, rector of St. Catherine of Genoa Church, St. Theresa of the Child Jesus School has a long history of educating the students of Somerville and the surrounding community. Originally staffed by the Sisters of St. Joseph, their presence is still felt throughout St. Theresa’s School, a vibrant, culturally and economically diverse PreK - 8th grade Catholic school uniquely located between some of greater Boston’s best educational institutions in Harvard and Tufts University. St. Theresa’s School proudly promotes the Catholic faith and inspires academic excellence within a community of care and support. The school is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges and will be wrapping up its re-accreditation in the 2023-2024 academic year. The school operates under a Board of Specified Jurisdiction to oversee the financial, enrollment, facilities, and advancement aspects of the school.
?Today St. Theresa of the Child Jesus School is a dynamic school community that meets the intellectual, emotional, physical and spiritual needs of its students. Staffed by experienced educators who understand the needs and abilities of their students, St. Theresa School ensures that each student reaches their God given potential. The students of St. Theresa’s today are from Somerville, Medford, Cambridge, Everett, Arlington and other surrounding communities. Many students matriculate to competitive, well-known area Catholic and independent schools.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
The city of Somerville borders Boston and Cambridge and is renowned for its eclectic, diverse, and innovative character. We are home to the HONK! Festival, a celebration of street bands, and Fluff Festival, a celebration of the marshmallow condiment invented in the city. Like many cities, our population has shifted greatly due to gentrification. Once blue collar neighborhoods are now home to many professionals who work in higher education, bio-technologies, and healthcare. Somerville is home to Tufts University and neighbors Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Lesley University. Our campus is situated on a quiet, residential street between vibrant Davis Square and Union Square, two neighborhoods that are home to a rich, diverse array of restaurants, cafes, shops, and theaters.
ABOUT THE POSITION
The principal is a strategic thinker who serves as the spiritual, instructional, and administrative head of St. Theresa School. S/he is responsible for the effective operation of the school as a Catholic educational institution. S/he is the primary agent for creating an environment that fosters academic excellence, Catholic faith formation and operational vitality. S/he is responsible for creating a welcoming atmosphere for all members of the school community (faculty, staff, students, parents, and donors) and a climate that encourages the engagement of each student in the learning process while fostering a love for learning. The principal constantly strives to provide the highest quality educational experience possible and displays a sense of urgency in attaining such outcomes for all students. The principal understands the dynamics of enrollment management in a competitive landscape. S/he also prioritizes development strategies to increase and diversify revenue.
Under the Board of Specified Jurisdiction governance model the principal will report to the Board, which includes the Pastor, the Very Rev. Brian McHugh and members from the community. The principal will work in collaboration with all Board members, the Parish Business Office and the office staff.
As a school leader, the principal is a minister of the Catholic Church and entrusted with the responsibility of evangelizing. The principal must be a practicing Catholic and serve as a joyful witness to the Catholic faith. S/he understands that Catholic schools play a central role in evangelizing students and their families through facilitating daily prayer, regular school-wide Masses and opportunities for the school community to join together in active practice of the faith.
The responsibilities of the principal include but are not limited to:
Displaying a genuine love and enthusiasm for working with children and a loving concern for their spiritual, emotional and educational growth and well-being.
Creating an atmosphere, with faculty, staff and parents, that fosters a love of learning among students and encourages the development of each student to his/her full potential.
Providing leadership within the school and creating an environment that reflects the Catholic identity of St. Theresa School and its mission statement. Collaborating with the school and parish communities to deepen the faith experience of each student.
Creating an inclusive educational environment that actively welcomes, supports, respects and nurtures students of diverse learning abilities and backgrounds. Working with external sources, such as special education providers, to coordinate services and ensure the needs of all students are fully supported.
Collaborating with the Board of Specified Jurisdiction and other key stakeholders on school operations.
Developing a rigorous educational program that meets the needs of the student population, maintains consistency in academic excellence and excels at the integration of technology into all aspects of teaching and learning.
Prioritizing instructional leadership, recruiting talented educators, supporting growth and providing ongoing evaluations, mentoring and support, while setting clear expectations and high standards.
Empowering the Community Coach to seek and implement new strategies on enrollment management and fundraising.
Providing professional development for faculty and staff that advances the academic and spiritual goals of the school. Conducting regular meetings to foster a climate of communication, teamwork and collaboration among faculty, staff and administration.
Managing effective and clear procedures for the operation of the school including instructional programs, extended day and enrichment programs, summer programs, discipline systems, building maintenance, record keeping, personnel management, office operations and emergency procedures.
Establishing the annual master schedule for instructional programs. Supervising the instructional programs of the school, evaluating lesson plans and observing classes on a regular basis to encourage the use of a variety of instructional strategies and materials consistent with research on learning, as well as child growth and development.
Monitoring the school’s strategic plan in conjunction with the school board to ensure the school is consistently upholding the NEASC standards and striving for growth.
Overseeing business administration, enrollment, development, budgeting, marketing and communications in partnership with school, parish, and Board leadership.
Possessing strong acumen with technology and its usage as it applies to curriculum and administration.
Maintaining open communication with entire school community through regular email updates, newsletters, maintenance of the parent portals (including FACTS Tuition Management and SIS), open availability for meetings as well as timely replies to emails and telephone calls.
Managing the school office operations, including the submission of reports, record keeping, office/telephone coverage, enrollment management and publication of the school calendar.
Coordinating and promoting parent and community involvement in school activities.
Overseeing the completion of the annual planning process for Title resources.
Maintaining the physical environment of the school building by ensuring its cleanliness and safety.
Serving as an active member of school and parish boards to strengthen the Faith Formation and Evangelization of the Parish.
Displaying the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, transparency with the school community and the Archdiocese alike, and demonstrating sound judgment in handling difficult situations.
Overseeing, amending and enforcing the St. Theresa School discipline policy.
Understanding the role of and willingly engaging with the Board of Specified Jurisdiction as it pertains to the administration of the school.
Qualifications:
Must be a practicing Catholic.
MS, EdD or PhD in Education strongly preferred.
Catholic school experience, as well as school administrative experience is preferred.
Demonstrated communication skills, including public speaking and written communication.
The commitment to work in a collaborative environment and ability to delegate tasks as appropriate.
Application Process:
To apply, please submit the following three documents, confidentially, and as separate PDF attachments.
Cover letter (no greater than two pages), answering the following question:
Why do you find yourself being called to Catholic school leadership?
Current Resume (include all work- and service-related experiences, dates, and education related to the position)
List of three references with names, phone numbers, and email addresses. References are to include a pastoral, personal, and professional associate. No references will be contacted without your knowledge and approval.
Assemble the above in one email to:
Melanie Ribeiro at melanie_ribeiro@rcab.org.
Note: Please include “St. Theresa School Somerville Principal” in the subject line.
Founded in 1926 by Fr. James O’Brien, rector of St. Catherine of Genoa Church, St. Theresa of the Child Jesus School has a long history of educating the students of Somerville and the surrounding community. Originally staffed by the Sisters of St. Joseph, their presence is still felt throughout St. Theresa’s School, a vibrant, culturally and economically diverse PreK - 8th grade Catholic school uniquely located between some of greater Boston’s best educational institutions in Harvard and Tufts University. St. Theresa’s School proudly promotes the Catholic faith and inspires academic excellence within a community of care and support. The school is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges and will be wrapping up its re-accreditation in the 2023-2024 academic year. The school operates under a Board of Specified Jurisdiction to oversee the financial, enrollment, facilities, and advancement aspects of the school.
?Today St. Theresa of the Child Jesus School is a dynamic school community that meets the intellectual, emotional, physical and spiritual needs of its students. Staffed by experienced educators who understand the needs and abilities of their students, St. Theresa School ensures that each student reaches their God given potential. The students of St. Theresa’s today are from Somerville, Medford, Cambridge, Everett, Arlington and other surrounding communities. Many students matriculate to competitive, well-known area Catholic and independent schools.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
The city of Somerville borders Boston and Cambridge and is renowned for its eclectic, diverse, and innovative character. We are home to the HONK! Festival, a celebration of street bands, and Fluff Festival, a celebration of the marshmallow condiment invented in the city. Like many cities, our population has shifted greatly due to gentrification. Once blue collar neighborhoods are now home to many professionals who work in higher education, bio-technologies, and healthcare. Somerville is home to Tufts University and neighbors Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Lesley University. Our campus is situated on a quiet, residential street between vibrant Davis Square and Union Square, two neighborhoods that are home to a rich, diverse array of restaurants, cafes, shops, and theaters.
ABOUT THE POSITION
The principal is a strategic thinker who serves as the spiritual, instructional, and administrative head of St. Theresa School. S/he is responsible for the effective operation of the school as a Catholic educational institution. S/he is the primary agent for creating an environment that fosters academic excellence, Catholic faith formation and operational vitality. S/he is responsible for creating a welcoming atmosphere for all members of the school community (faculty, staff, students, parents, and donors) and a climate that encourages the engagement of each student in the learning process while fostering a love for learning. The principal constantly strives to provide the highest quality educational experience possible and displays a sense of urgency in attaining such outcomes for all students. The principal understands the dynamics of enrollment management in a competitive landscape. S/he also prioritizes development strategies to increase and diversify revenue.
Under the Board of Specified Jurisdiction governance model the principal will report to the Board, which includes the Pastor, the Very Rev. Brian McHugh and members from the community. The principal will work in collaboration with all Board members, the Parish Business Office and the office staff.
As a school leader, the principal is a minister of the Catholic Church and entrusted with the responsibility of evangelizing. The principal must be a practicing Catholic and serve as a joyful witness to the Catholic faith. S/he understands that Catholic schools play a central role in evangelizing students and their families through facilitating daily prayer, regular school-wide Masses and opportunities for the school community to join together in active practice of the faith.
The responsibilities of the principal include but are not limited to:
Displaying a genuine love and enthusiasm for working with children and a loving concern for their spiritual, emotional and educational growth and well-being.
Creating an atmosphere, with faculty, staff and parents, that fosters a love of learning among students and encourages the development of each student to his/her full potential.
Providing leadership within the school and creating an environment that reflects the Catholic identity of St. Theresa School and its mission statement. Collaborating with the school and parish communities to deepen the faith experience of each student.
Creating an inclusive educational environment that actively welcomes, supports, respects and nurtures students of diverse learning abilities and backgrounds. Working with external sources, such as special education providers, to coordinate services and ensure the needs of all students are fully supported.
Collaborating with the Board of Specified Jurisdiction and other key stakeholders on school operations.
Developing a rigorous educational program that meets the needs of the student population, maintains consistency in academic excellence and excels at the integration of technology into all aspects of teaching and learning.
Prioritizing instructional leadership, recruiting talented educators, supporting growth and providing ongoing evaluations, mentoring and support, while setting clear expectations and high standards.
Empowering the Community Coach to seek and implement new strategies on enrollment management and fundraising.
Providing professional development for faculty and staff that advances the academic and spiritual goals of the school. Conducting regular meetings to foster a climate of communication, teamwork and collaboration among faculty, staff and administration.
Managing effective and clear procedures for the operation of the school including instructional programs, extended day and enrichment programs, summer programs, discipline systems, building maintenance, record keeping, personnel management, office operations and emergency procedures.
Establishing the annual master schedule for instructional programs. Supervising the instructional programs of the school, evaluating lesson plans and observing classes on a regular basis to encourage the use of a variety of instructional strategies and materials consistent with research on learning, as well as child growth and development.
Monitoring the school’s strategic plan in conjunction with the school board to ensure the school is consistently upholding the NEASC standards and striving for growth.
Overseeing business administration, enrollment, development, budgeting, marketing and communications in partnership with school, parish, and Board leadership.
Possessing strong acumen with technology and its usage as it applies to curriculum and administration.
Maintaining open communication with entire school community through regular email updates, newsletters, maintenance of the parent portals (including FACTS Tuition Management and SIS), open availability for meetings as well as timely replies to emails and telephone calls.
Managing the school office operations, including the submission of reports, record keeping, office/telephone coverage, enrollment management and publication of the school calendar.
Coordinating and promoting parent and community involvement in school activities.
Overseeing the completion of the annual planning process for Title resources.
Maintaining the physical environment of the school building by ensuring its cleanliness and safety.
Serving as an active member of school and parish boards to strengthen the Faith Formation and Evangelization of the Parish.
Displaying the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, transparency with the school community and the Archdiocese alike, and demonstrating sound judgment in handling difficult situations.
Overseeing, amending and enforcing the St. Theresa School discipline policy.
Understanding the role of and willingly engaging with the Board of Specified Jurisdiction as it pertains to the administration of the school.
Qualifications:
Must be a practicing Catholic.
MS, EdD or PhD in Education strongly preferred.
Catholic school experience, as well as school administrative experience is preferred.
Demonstrated communication skills, including public speaking and written communication.
The commitment to work in a collaborative environment and ability to delegate tasks as appropriate.
Application Process:
To apply, please submit the following three documents, confidentially, and as separate PDF attachments.
Cover letter (no greater than two pages), answering the following question:
Why do you find yourself being called to Catholic school leadership?
Current Resume (include all work- and service-related experiences, dates, and education related to the position)
List of three references with names, phone numbers, and email addresses. References are to include a pastoral, personal, and professional associate. No references will be contacted without your knowledge and approval.
Assemble the above in one email to:
Melanie Ribeiro at melanie_ribeiro@rcab.org.
Note: Please include “St. Theresa School Somerville Principal” in the subject line.
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