Principal

Diocese of Austin Catholic Schools•Austin, TX

About The Position

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 students from under-resourced communities to graduate ready for college, careers, and purposeful lives. With a rigorous academic program and a unique corporate internship model, the school blends classroom learning with real-world experiences, opening doors of opportunity and inspiring hope. Co-sponsored by the Congregation of Holy Cross and the Diocese of Austin, San Juan Diego Catholic High School (SJDCHS) is a vibrant community of faith and learning in South Austin. The school serves a diverse student population of 165 students in grades 9-12, providing an affordable, private Catholic education to families throughout Central Texas. We invite applicants who are passionate about cultivating a positive Catholic school culture and are dedicated to the holistic development of our students to apply. Job Summary The principal fulfills the mission of the Catholic school by serving as the spiritual, educational, and managerial leader of the school. The principal is charged with the implementation of the philosophy, mission, objectives, and the overall management of the school. The principal is responsible for the professional effectiveness of the staff, the educational progress of the students, as well as the relationship within the entire school community. The principal reports to the President. Ministerial Character Catholic schools in the Diocese of Austin are canonically obedient to the Bishop and assist him in fulfilling his ministry and canonical obligations. Pastors, presidents, and principals serve as leaders of the schools to make Christ's mission present and enduring in the schools. In order to fulfill Christ's mission, the school leaders employ suitable, chosen collaborators, sharing with them Christ's mission and entrusting to them various responsibilities. Positions employed in this School help extend the ministry of the School leaders in particular ways as outlined in the job description. The employee in this position is closely connected to and assists the School leaders in the performance of their ministry and, therefore, engages in ministry for the Church.

Requirements

Knowledge of the basic teachings of the Catholic Church.
Knowledge of instructional methods/strategies and curriculum differentiation.
Knowledge of child and adolescent development, learning, and behavior.
Knowledge of the content and the methods of religious education.
Knowledge of effective assessment methods.
Ability to communicate effectively in both written and verbal form.
Ability to work well with others in the school community.
Ability to work independently and self-motivate.
Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding school matters.
Ability in handling multiple tasks simultaneously.
Skill in organizing and relating information in an understandable format.
Skill in job appropriate technology.
Skill in critical thinking and planning.
Skill in managing conflicts effectively.
Skill in organizational management and delegation of responsibilities.
Skill in using group process skills effectively with various school communities.
Education: Master’s degree in Administration or Master’s degree plus 18 hours in educational administration and supervision courses or a valid, appropriate state certificate for a principal or the successful completion of an appropriate state certification examination, as outlined in the Texas Catholic Conference Education Department standards
Experience A minimum of three years of full-time wage earning administration experience.
Certifications and Training: Must be a practicing Catholic in good standing with a commitment to ongoing formation in catechetical and spiritual leadership development
Valid Texas driver's license.
Must maintain compliance with the Diocese of Austin Ethics and Integrity in Ministry (EIM) policies throughout the employment period.
Must meet the minimum requirements for teaching field as set forth by the Diocese and TCCB ED.
Must meet staff development guidelines as set forth by the Diocese and school administration.
Must complete Religion Certification Part 1 within two years of the date of hire, completing a minimum of 25 hours each year.
Mental / Physical Tasks: : Talking Listening Standing Walking Grasping/holding Lifting/carrying Moving heavy equipment Driving Using office equipment, stapler, telephone, etc. Using personal computer Sitting Bending Pushing/pulling Reading & comprehending Seeing
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.

Responsibilities

Supports and upholds the philosophy of Catholic education and the mission of the school.
Acts as a witness to the Gospel values by modeling the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church.
Continuously grow in your ministry by participating in religious ceremonies, training sessions, and reflection activities as directed.
Support and adhere to the Standards of Conduct and policies and procedures of the school.
Develops a school climate reflecting Catholic identity.
Identifies and effects needed change for school improvement.
Ensures the implementation of a comprehensive curriculum through the use of a variety of pedagogical strategies.
Supervises instruction and evaluates the overall effectiveness of the academic program.
Ensures that the religious instruction of students meets the guidelines set forth by the Diocese.
Promotes Catholic identity within the school through liturgical celebrations, faith development, integration of Gospel values, and the practice of Christian service.
Oversees ongoing orientation and staff development in both educational and faith development of faculty and staff.
Maintains the accreditation of the school according to TCCED standards.
Oversees the certification of religion teachers according to diocesan policy.
Hires, supervises, evaluates, and terminates all faculty and staff according to diocesan guidelines.
Fosters collaboration between parish(es), pastor(s), and the school.
Develops faculty and student/parent handbooks in accordance with diocesan guidelines.
Completes and submits all official forms required by the Diocesan Catholic Schools Office, Texas Catholic Conference Education Department, and other public agencies.
Implements and reviews long-range strategic planning.
Develops CIP Educational Curriculum
Promotes healthy staff morale and professionalism.
Maintains current and accurate records according to diocesan and school policy.
Demonstrates professionalism in conduct, demeanor, and work habits.
Maintains a work schedule that maximizes availability to the school, students and staff.
Provides for an orderly school environment and promotes student self-discipline.
Participates in professional development, including diocesan principal meetings and in-services.
Establishes and implements technology goals for the school.
Maintains confidentiality regarding school matters.
Communicates effectively with students, parents, and other professionals.