Author Description

The role of the principal in a Catholic elementary/middle school has changed and expanded dramatically over the last decade. The role and tasks of principals in larger schools are essentially the same as the job descriptions of administrators in schools of less than 100 students. Principals in both large and small schools must complete reports, negotiate with state school districts, seek additional funding, write newsletters, attend school board and other parish meetings, visit potential donors, and take care of a host of other responsibilities. Some schools have created the position of executive secretary to the principal, others have hired business managers, but most have seen the need for another educator and use assistant principals. A strong advocate for seeking help for principals, the National Catholic Educational Association Department of Elementary Schools presents the stories of 19 assistant principals who attended the first assistant principals' academy. While there is great diversity in their stories, the common theme of a deep commitment to the ministry of education is evident.(DFR)