What are the responsibilities and job description for the Principal - Morning Star Catholic School (Tampa) position at The Catholic Diocese of St. Petersburg?
Morning Star Catholic School - Tampa, FL, seeks a faith-filled, compassionate leader to serve as Principal of our school dedicated to educating students with special learning needs beginning July 1, 2026. Rooted in the belief that every child is created in the image and likeness of God, Morning Star provides a supportive, individualized learning environment where students with diverse abilities are nurtured academically, spiritually, socially, and emotionally. The principal will provide visionary leadership to advance the schools mission of inclusion, excellence, and Catholic identity.
Key Responsibilities
- Serve as the spiritual and instructional leader of the school, fostering a Christ-centered, inclusive community
- Lead and support high-quality instruction tailored to students with special needs, including individualized learning plans and accommodations
- Supervise, mentor, and evaluate faculty and staff specializing in exceptional student education and related services
- Ensure a safe, structured, and nurturing environment for students with diverse academic and developmental needs
- Collaborate closely with families as partners in their childs education
- Oversee daily operations, budgeting, staffing, and compliance with diocesan and Florida requirements
- Strengthen enrollment, community partnerships, and advancement efforts
- Promote a culture of respect, dignity, and belonging for all students
Qualifications
- Practicing Catholic in good standing with a strong commitment to Catholic education
- Masters degree in Educational Leadership, Special Education, or a related field preferred
- Florida certification in Educational Leadership and/or Exceptional Student Education (or ability to obtain)
- Minimum of five years of experience in education, preferably including special needs leadership or instruction
- Demonstrated knowledge of individualized instruction, inclusive practices, and student support services
- Must pass Level II Fingerprinting and complete Safe Environment The Florida Background Screening Clearinghouse Education and Awareness website can be found at https://info.flclearinghouse.com
- Interested candidates should use the link to complete the application. The position will remain open until it is filled.
Desired Qualities
- Deep commitment to serving students with special needs and their families
- Compassionate, collaborative leadership style
- Strong communication and organizational skills
- Visionary, mission-driven educational leader
Position Details
- This is a full-time position with a competitive salary and benefits commensurate with experience and diocesan guidelines.
Application Process
- Interested candidates should use the link to complete the application. The position will remain open until it is filled.