Catholic School Principal

Overview

San Juan Diego Catholic High School in Austin, Texas, is seeking a dynamic and faith-inspired Principal for the 2026‑2027 school year. The Principal will provide academic, operational, and spiritual leadership while working closely with the President, faculty, staff, students, and families. Grounded in Catholic values and a strong commitment to education, SJDCHS empowers under‑resourced students to graduate ready for college, careers, and purposeful lives.

The Principal fulfills the mission of the Catholic school by serving as the spiritual, educational, and managerial leader. The Principal is charged with implementing the philosophy, mission, objectives, and overall management of the school, ensuring professional effectiveness of staff, educational progress of students, and fostering a cohesive school community. The Principal reports to the President.

Catholic schools in the Diocese of Austin are canonically obedient to the Bishop and assist him in fulfilling his ministry and canonical obligations. In order to fulfill Christ’s mission, the school leaders employ suitable collaborators, share ministry responsibilities, and gather the Church community around the school leadership.

• Supports and upholds the philosophy of Catholic education and the mission of the school.
• Acts as a witness to Gospel values by modeling the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church.
• Continually grows in ministry by participating in religious ceremonies, training sessions, and reflection activities.
• Ensures implementation of a comprehensive curriculum through a variety of pedagogical strategies.
• Supervises instruction, evaluates overall effectiveness of the academic program, and maintains religious instruction standards.
• Promotes Catholic identity through liturgical celebrations, faith development, and integration of Gospel values.
• Oversees ongoing orientation and staff development in both educational and faith development of faculty and staff.
• Maintains accreditation according to TCCED standards and oversees certification of religion teachers.
• Hires, supervises, evaluates, and terminates all faculty and staff according to diocesan guidelines.
• Develops faculty and student/parent handbooks in accordance with diocesan guidelines.
• Implements long‑range strategic planning and technology goals for the school.

• Knowledge of basic teachings of the Catholic Church, instruction methods, child development, and religious education content.
• Ability to communicate effectively in written and verbal form, work well with others, and maintain confidentiality regarding school matters.
• Skill in organizing information, planning, conflict resolution, and managing multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Technical proficiency in group processes, educational technology, and critical thinking.

• Master’s degree in Administration or a Master’s degree plus 18 hours in educational administration and supervision courses, or a valid Texas principal certification.
• A minimum of three years of full‑time wage‑earning administration experience.

• Must be a practicing Catholic in good standing with ongoing formation in catechetical and spiritual leadership.
• Valid Texas driver’s license.
• Compliance with Diocese of Austin Ethics and Integrity in Ministry policies, teaching field requirements, and staff development guidelines.
• Must complete Religion Certification Part 1 within two years of hire and maintain 25‑hour annual religious instruction training.

• Talking, listening, standing, walking, grasping, lifting, moving heavy equipment, driving.
• Using office equipment, personal computer, and reading & comprehending.
• Physical tasks include bending, pushing/pulling, riding, and sitting.

• Fast‑paced environment with changing priorities, working weekends, evenings, and some holidays.
• Exposure to religious ceremonies, Christian prayer, and liturgical celebrations.
• Requires adherence to established dress codes, tobacco‑free buildings, and use of personal or school vehicles for off‑site locations.
• Travel within and outside the school, including overnight lodging, may be required.
• Must maintain a work schedule that maximizes availability to students, parents, colleagues, and administration.

All employees must adhere to the Catholic Schools Standards of Conduct, the Diocese of Austin EIM policies, and the social, ethical, and moral teachings of the Roman Catholic Church as interpreted by the Bishop of Austin. The position is at‑will and not a contract.