Principal

At Sacred Heart School in Yankton, South Dakota, we believe that Catholic education is more than academic excellence—it is a joyful participation in the mission of Jesus Christ. Our next principal will join a vibrant, faithful, and growing school community that values tradition, celebrates innovation, and forms students to be saints and scholars.

Sacred Heart School has over 25 staff members in two buildings. Grades range from Pre-Kindergarten thru the 8th grade. The current enrollment is about 300 students from 200 families. Our growth is evident in our preschool, junior kindergarten and two sections in many grade levels receiving a foundation of faith as well as achieving academic excellence.

If you are a leader who seeks not only to guide an institution but to shape souls in the image of Christ, we invite you to prayerfully consider this opportunity. Come and lead a school where faith is lived, truth is taught, and community is cherished.

Key Responsibilities

• General Faith Development: Promote the mission, vision, and values of Sacred Heart Catholic School, modeling Catholic teachings in word and action while integrating faith into all aspects of education.
• Faculty and Curriculum Development: Lead faculty in delivering a rigorous, faith-centered curriculum that develops students as critical thinkers and lifelong learners.
• Management of Facilities and Records: Oversee daily operations and provide a daily presence in one of our two buildings, maintain student and faculty records
• Parental Involvement: Maintain strong relationships with parents, parishioners, and stakeholders through effective communication and collaboration
• School Organization: Work collaboratively with the Pastor, the school Advisory Council, and other relevant groups to manage budgeting, fundraising, and long-term strategic initiatives.

• Additional duties may include: work with finances and tuition assistance, technology integration and/or marketing

Qualifications

• Be an active and practicing Catholic in good standing and capable of serving as the spiritual leader of the school.
• South Dakota principal certification or eligibility to obtain.
• Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.
• Be interested and willing to be involved in professional and spiritual growth that includes, but not limited to, attendance at Diocesan meetings and workshops, regional and national professional development opportunities.

• Proficiency with Google/Microsoft platforms and relevant educational technology.

Why Join Us?

Sacred Heart School is rooted in rich Catholic tradition. On March 25, 1881, The Sisters of Mercy of the Sacred Heart Convent announced the opening of Yankton's first parochial school. Three days later the first classes were held. It was known as St. Martin's and was located on the northwest corner of Cedar and Fifth. Relatively short-lived, it was succeeded by Sacred Heart School, erected just west of the present day church.

Sacred Heart School is located in Yankton, South Dakota. The first school was built in 1884 just west of the current Sacred Heart Church. In 1922, a new two-story brick school was completed at 5th and Capital. In 2002, construction of the new PK through 4th grade classrooms was added on to the St. Benedict Church building. In 2011, a new 5th through 8th grade building was constructed at the Sacred Heart Parish site. At that time, all but the gymnasium of the 1922 building was razed.

Apply Today!

To apply, please submit a letter of interest which includes your educational philosophy, a resume, transcripts, credentials, copy of current teacher’s certificate, and contact information for three references. Also include a letter of reference from your local parish priest of your status as a Catholic in good standing.

All document should be sent to Melissa Pavlish, Business Manager at business@stmartintours.org

More information can be found by calling 605-664-6214