Principal

Located in Corpus Christi — “the Body of Christ” — Our Lady of Perpetual Help Academy seeks a joyful, faith-filled, and mission-driven Principal to lead its growing Catholic elementary school community serving approximately 120 students from PK2 through 5th grade. As the only Catholic school in the Diocese of Corpus Christi offering a PK2 program, OLPHA provides children with an early foundation rooted in faith, learning, and loving care.

Guided by its mission of nurturing young hearts and minds through Christ-centered education, OLPHA fosters a safe, caring, and child-centered environment where students grow in faith, knowledge, confidence, and character. The school is known for its strong sense of community, dedicated teachers, joyful spirit, and commitment to helping every child feel loved, respected, encouraged, and known.

The next Principal will build upon OLPHA’s strong academic and spiritual foundation while leading the school into continued growth and excellence. The ideal candidate is a practicing Catholic who serves as both an educational leader and spiritual role model for students, faculty, and families.

Ministerial Character:

The Diocesan Bishop is the visible principle and foundation of unity in the particular Church (“the Diocese”) entrusted to him.  In a unique and visible way, he makes Christ's mission present and enduring as the Shepherd of the Christian Community.  In order to fulfill his mission, the Diocesan Bishop employs suitable, chosen collaborators, who are clerics, religious, and lay people.  He shares with them the apostolic mission and entrusts various responsibilities to them.

Each position employed in the Diocese of Corpus Christi helps to extend the ministry of the Diocesan Bishop in particular ways as outlined in the job duties and responsibilities.  Therefore, this position is closely connected to and assists the Diocesan Bishop in the performance of his ministry and thereby engages in ministry for the church.

Key Responsibilities:

The list below reflects the general details considered necessary to describe the primary functions of the job identified and shall not be construed as a detailed description of all the work requirements that may be inherent in the job.

• As an integral part of the ministry for the Church, this position will support and uphold the philosophy of Catholic ministry and the mission of the Diocese of Corpus Christi in both professional and personal life
• Acts as a witness to Gospel values by modeling the teachings of the Catholic Church
• Continuous growth in the ministry by participating in religious ceremonies, training sessions, and reflection activities as directed
• Catholic Identity: Serve as a collaborative and faith-filled leader, nurturing the Catholic mission and spiritual life of the school through Christian witness and visible faith leadership
• Governance and Leadership: Collaborate effectively with the pastor, Diocese of Corpus Christi, School Advisory Council, and parish leadership to support the mission, governance, and long-term vitality of the school
• Curriculum and Instruction: Lead the continuous growth of teaching and learning through strong instructional leadership, faculty development, and a commitment to academic excellence
• Student Services and Activities: Advocate for and effectively utilize school, diocesan, and community resources to ensure programs and services support the spiritual, academic, social, emotional, and developmental needs of every child
• Facilities and Operations: Ensure school facilities, operations, and resources support a safe, welcoming, and mission-centered learning environment

Mental/Physical Demands:

• Ability to carry, pull, push, lift, or move objects 10 pounds or more
• Ability to maintain composure under duress; maintain emotional control under stress
• Must maintain confidentiality

Minimum Qualifications:

• Practicing Catholic in good standing with a commitment to the mission of Catholic education
• Master’s degree in educational leadership or related field
• Minimum of three years successful teaching experience
• Demonstrated leadership experience in a school setting
• Valid Texas driver's license

• Must be 21 years of age or older

Desired Attributes:

• Faith-filled and mission-driven leader
• Visionary and relational leader with the ability to lead a school community forward
• Strong communicator who builds trust and collaboration
• Strategic thinker committed to growth and sustainability

Additional Requirements:

• Must submit to employment required screenings including a criminal history background check, motor vehicle record check, and drug screening
• Certification in Safe Environment training provided by the Office of Safe Environment and Child & Family Resources
• Position requires adherence to Diocesan policies and procedures

Application Instructions:

To be considered for employment with the Diocese of Corpus Christi locations, all interested individuals must complete the online application at https://diocesecc.org/human-resources. 

In addition to the application, please submit:

• Resume
• Letter of Interest
• Written responses to the following questions

1. Catholic Identity
How do you intentionally build and sustain a strong Catholic culture within a school community?

2. Academic Leadership
Describe a specific way you have improved teaching and learning in your school. What impact did it have?

3. Leadership & Vitality
What strategies would you use to strengthen enrollment and ensure the long-term vitality of a Catholic school?