Principal

Archdiocese of Detroit; Carleton (MI); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The Archdiocese of Detroit is seeking a Principal for St. Patrick Catholic School in Carleton, Michigan. This role entails overseeing daily operations, providing leadership in both academics and spirituality, and fostering a strong Catholic identity within the school community. The ideal candidate will possess leadership experience in a Catholic setting, familiarity with classical education, and a Master's degree in educational leadership. This position provides an opportunity to strengthen community ties and promote the school's mission.

Qualifications

• Prior leadership or administrative experience in a Catholic school environment.
• Demonstrated familiarity or experience with classical education models.
• Must hold a Master's degree in educational leadership or a related field.
• Must be a practicing Catholic in good standing.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the principal, managing daily operations and long-term planning.
• Uphold and promote Catholic educational values and school's mission.
• Lead academic and spiritual development initiatives for students and staff.
• Oversee adherence to operational policies and financial management.
• Strengthen community relations and advance enrollment efforts.

Skills

Leadership in Catholic school

Classical education familiarity

Educational leadership

Practicing Catholic

Education

Master's degree in educational leadership

Job description

Position

Principal

Location

Carleton, Michigan – St. Patrick Catholic School (PK‑8)

Job Id

5230

# of Openings

0

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, fostering an environment grounded in love, respect, and the dignity of every individual.

Mission

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, responsible for daily operations and long-term institutional advancement. Responsibilities include 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
  • 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.