Welcome to the Arena: A Message for Catholic School Principals

"How can you do this job?"

If I had a dollar for every time someone asked me this question, followed by "I could never do your job," I could probably fund another school year. And you know what? The longer I've been a principal, the more often people say it.

Here's the truth: I really loved serving as a principal. It's a vocation, not just a profession. The challenges, the triumphs, the people, the outcomes—they're incredibly rewarding. But let's be honest with ourselves and each other: The job is really hard.

Why This Space Exists

When I searched for resources written specifically for Catholic school principals, I found plenty of research and theory. What I didn't find was something that spoke to the unvarnished reality of the daily work required. It is easy to feel unseen.

We know the research tells us principals are the most important factor in our school's success. We understand that Catholic school leadership has unique complexities that set it apart from other principalships. But what we rarely get is permission to look our realities square in the face and say: "You're not going to defeat me today!"

Because let's be real—every day, something could defeat us. And every day, by God's grace, we show up anyway.

The Broadway Show Metaphor

A former principal once told me that being a principal is like putting on a Broadway show five days a week for 36 weeks a year. While doing that, we must support all our stakeholders and uphold our mission. We do this because we care, because we feel called to serve the Church and community.

But these pressures can be draining when no one fully sees or acknowledges them. Instead, people find ways to criticize because things aren't exactly how they want them.

I cannot think of one current or former colleague who hasn't expressed a similar sentiment at some point.

Yet you keep proudly showing up. Way to Go!

The Reality Check No One Else Will Give You

Here's what I want you to know:

• The job is hard. There's no sugar-coating it.

• The job is complicated. More than anyone outside our shoes can imagine.

• The job is joyous. Yes, even with everything else.

• The job is never fully understood by others. And expecting them to understand is a mistake.

• Nothing can fully prepare you for this job. Not classes, mentors, or previous experience—until you're actually in the chair.

You have so many bosses: the pastor, the Chancery, parents, teachers, government mandates. Sometimes those mandates even contradict each other! You show up every day working hard to do things correctly for our students, teachers, and parents, often with people trying to convince you you're not doing it right.

Why I'm Here (And Why You Should Stay)

Too many principals burn out because of the challenges and the lack of support received. This space exists to offer you what I wish I'd had more of throughout my journey:

• Reality checks alongside encouragement

• Support when the critics are loud

• Humor when the absurdity peaks

• Cautionary tales from someone who's made the mistakes

• Maybe a little advice (though I question my own qualifications daily—just ask my teenage son about the value of my advice)

You are needed. You are surrounded by critics, yet every day you show up to fight for your kids, teachers, schools, and community. They need you to keep fighting, and it is so important that you get support in this work.

As Jesus reminds us: "I have told you this so that you might have peace in me. In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world." (John 16:33) You're not alone in this arena.

An Invitation

Whether you're a veteran principal feeling the weight of years of service, a new principal wondering what you've gotten yourself into, or an aspiring leader considering whether to step into the arena—this space is for you.

In the spirit of St. Ignatius, who teaches us to find God in all things—even in the chaos of a principal's office—may what you find here inspire courage, grit, and care for yourself and others.

I pray you stay in the arena and fight for our very special schools, families, teachers, and students.

Because someone has to. And that someone is you.

Welcome. Let's do this together.

Dr. Marie Bordeleau