Principal – Nativity of Our Lord School Orchard Park, NY | Diocese of Buffalo Catholic Schools
Position Summary:Nativity of Our Lord School seeks a faith-filled, student-centered instructional leader to serve as Principal. The successful candidate will be committed to academic excellence, upholding the Catholic identity, and promoting whole-child development. As head of school, the principal will oversee the spiritual, educational, and operational vitality of this Pre-K through Grade 8 community rooted in Gospel values and strong family partnerships.
Key Responsibilities:
- Faith Leadership:
- Foster and model a Catholic culture of kindness, respect, and service.
- Support and collaborate with parish leadership in the spiritual formation of students and staff.
- Lead school-wide prayer, liturgical celebrations, and service initiatives.
- Staffing & Instructional Leadership:
- Ensure staffing supports the academic, social and faith-based goals of the school.
- Hire, supervise and evaluate teaching staff, supporting ongoing professional development and mentorship.
- Use data to drive schoolwide academic improvement in literacy and math.
- Implement and monitor Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) and Academic Intervention Services (AIS).
- Promote professional learning communities and differentiated instruction aligned with NYS standards.
- Social-Emotional Learning & Well-Being:
- Lead the integration of social-emotional learning programs (e.g., Friendzy).
- Champion a culture of respect, safety, and emotional wellness for all learners.
- Technology & Innovation:
- Maintain and evolve the school’s instructional technology plan, including a 1:1 Chromebook program (Grades 3–8).
- Encourage innovative teaching practices and digital learning.
- Advancement & Marketing:
- Collaborate with the Director of Advancement to increase enrollment and community visibility.
- Operations & Safety:
- Manage school operations, including budgeting, scheduling, and emergency procedures.
- Chair the Safety Committee and ensure compliance with NYS school safety regulations.
- Collaborate with diocesan leadership and local authorities on policy and best practices.
- Work with the Dean of Students to ensure compliance with VIRTUS and other Diocesan safety requirements as well as setting strong cultural and behavioral expectations for the school community.
- Community Engagement:
- Cultivate strong relationships with parents, parish, and broader community.
- Maintain high levels of staff morale and retention through effective communication and a shared mission.
- Work with the Athletic Committee and music and performing arts coordinator to ensure students have access to robust athletic and artistic opportunities.
- Lead fundraising and advancement efforts with school stakeholders.
- Board & Governance
- Work collaboratively with the School Board to uphold the school’s mission and ensure its sustainability.
- Work with the Board and business office to develop and manage the school budget.
Qualifications:
- Practicing Catholic with a strong commitment to Catholic education and spiritual leadership.
- NYS School Building Leader (SBL) Certification (or equivalent) required or in progress.
- Master’s degree in Educational Leadership or related field.
- Proven record of instructional leadership, faculty supervision, and student achievement growth.
- Experience with MTSS, SEL programming, and educational technology preferred.
Salary Range: $55,000-$65,000. Subject to negotiation, compensation will be commensurate with experience.
To Apply: Submit a cover letter, resume, and three references to George Chernowski, Nativity School Board Member, . Applications must be submitted by June 23, 2025, at 5pm ET.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $55,000.00 - $65,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
Work Location: In person
