Description
POSITION START DATE: JULY 2026
SEARCH LEADERSHIP & PARTNERSHIP
ACELA Solutions has been retained as the exclusive executive search partner for St. Patrick’s Catholic School in Rolla, Missouri, in partnership with the Superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Diocese of Jefferson City, in the recruitment of its next Principal. This search represents a meaningful opportunity to serve a faith-filled parish school sustained by a strong culture of stewardship and a deep commitment to Catholic education. ACELA is honored to support St. Patrick’s Catholic School and the Diocese of Jefferson City in identifying a Principal whose faith, leadership experience, and collaborative approach align with the school’s mission, parish culture, and long-term vision.
ABOUT SAINT PATRICK CATHOLIC SCHOOL
St. Patrick’s Catholic School provides a faith-centered educational environment where students grow academically, spiritually, socially, and morally. The school is committed to the philosophy of Catholic education and to forming students in Gospel values through a strong instructional program, a supportive community, and an integrated approach to faith and learning.
Located in Rolla, Missouri, the school benefits from a strong parish community and a culture of stewardship that supports Catholic education across the Diocese of Jefferson City. The generosity of parishioners and philanthropic supporters from Rolla and throughout the diocese has made tuition-free Catholic education possible, allowing the school to remain focused on student formation, teaching, learning, and community life.
St. Patrick’s Catholic School is blessed to be led in partnership with Father Jason Doke, pastor of St. Patrick Parish. Father Doke is a vibrant and visible presence in the life of the school and a passionate advocate for Catholic education. He is deeply engaged with students, faculty, and families and is committed to partnering closely with the Principal as the school’s chief academic and building leader.
THE POSITION
St. Patrick’s Catholic School is seeking a practicing Catholic educator to serve as Principal, the school’s chief administrator and educational leader. The Principal is responsible for fostering a Christian environment conducive to academic excellence and faith formation and is accountable to the pastor and the Superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Diocese of Jefferson City.
The Principal serves as the school’s chief administrator and leader, providing leadership and administrative authority in all educational and related matters of the school. This role calls for a leader who promotes the philosophy and mission of Catholic education, fosters a faith-filled school culture grounded in Gospel values, and ensures effective communication and collaboration with parents, parish leadership, and diocesan partners.
THE OPPORTUNITY
This is a unique opportunity to serve as the school’s chief academic and building leader, supported by engaged pastoral leadership and a stewardship-based, tuition-free model that allows the Principal to focus on teaching, learning, culture, and community.
The next Principal will have the opportunity to work in close partnership with Father Doke, parish leadership, and diocesan partners to strengthen the school’s academic program, support enrollment vitality, and advance the mission of Catholic education throughout the greater Rolla community. This role offers a collaborative leadership environment rooted in trust, shared responsibility, and a deep commitment to Catholic formation.
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE
St. Patrick’s Catholic School seeks a mission-driven, student-centered Catholic school leader who brings strong instructional leadership and a commitment to academic excellence. The ideal candidate demonstrates:
- A demonstrated and vibrant Catholic faith life, in communion with the Church
- A relational, approachable, and pastorally grounded leadership presence
- A collaborative leadership style that values teamwork and shared responsibility
- Sound judgment, organizational strength, and thoughtful decision-making
- An appreciation for a stewardship-supported model of Catholic education
A master’s degree with coursework in school administration consistent with state requirements is preferred. State of Missouri principal certification (or willingness to obtain) and a minimum of three years of successful teaching experience are required.
APPLICATION PROCESS & NEXT STEPS
On behalf of the pastor and leadership of St. Patrick’s Catholic School, in collaboration with the Diocese of Jefferson City, ACELA Solutions invites qualified, mission-aligned leaders to submit materials for consideration for this Principal opportunity.
Interested candidates are invited to submit the following materials for consideration:
- Letter of Interest – Rather than a traditional cover letter, candidates are asked to submit a thoughtful letter describing what draws them to St. Patrick’s Catholic School, their sense of vocational calling to this role, and why this Principal opportunity is compelling at this moment in their professional journey.
- Resume or curriculum vitae, with all relevant positions and dates clearly included
- Catholic PK–8 Education Leadership Philosophy Statement
- Five references representing a balance of personal, professional, and spiritual perspectives, including at least one reference who can speak to the candidate’s faith life and leadership witness
References will be used as part of a holistic discernment process. No references will be contacted without the candidate’s prior knowledge and explicit permission, and confidentiality will be safeguarded with the utmost care throughout the search.
All inquiries and applications will be treated confidentially.
How to Apply- Carefully read the position descriptions to understand the role, responsibilities, and requirements.
- Update your resume and gather any required documents (such as a letter of interest, leadership statements, references, or certifications).
- Apply using this link, https://acelasolutions.com/open-searches/principal-3505854?hsLang=en and complete the application form with accurate information. Upload the required documents before submitting.
- After submission, you will receive a confirmation message or email acknowledging that your application has been received.
- Our search team will review your application. If your profile matches the role, we’ll contact you for the next steps.
Skills Required
- Master's degree with coursework in school administration
- Missouri principal certification or willingness to obtain
- Minimum of three years of successful teaching experience
What We Do
The Diocese of Jefferson City is a diocese of the Catholic Church in the state of Missouri. It invites all the faithful to deepen their prayer and witness to the dignity of human life.
