Founding President

President, Don Bosco Trade High School

A Founding Opportunity to Shape the Future of Catholic Career and Trade Education (CTE)

About Don Bosco Trade High School

Rooted in the Salesian charism of St. John Bosco and animated by a deep belief in the dignity of work, Don Bosco Trade High School (DBTHS) is poised to redefine the landscape of Catholic Career and Trade Education (CTE) in Massachusetts. Opening to students in Fall 2027, DBTHS will serve as a co-educational, faith-based high school that integrates rigorous academics, hands-on trade pathways, and opportunities for entrepreneurship—all designed to prepare the next generation of skilled workers, innovators, and leaders.

Guided by the motto “Work, Faith, and Purpose,” the school bridges the gap between workforce needs, higher education, and accessible career opportunities. Students will learn in a modernized facility featuring labs, workshops, and collaborative spaces that foster both technical mastery and moral formation.

With early support from regional building and trade unions, Don Bosco Trade High School is developing strong industry partnerships that will provide students with authentic, hands-on experiences, certifications, and pathways into sustainable, dignified careers. These partnerships will be instrumental in ensuring students are workforce-ready, college-capable, and rooted in faith.

ACELA Solutions is privileged to walk alongside this extraordinary community of educators, industry partners, and faith leaders. Few Catholic schools in the nation are founded expressly around a mission of Career and Trade Education (CTE), making Don Bosco Trade High School a pioneering model of Catholic innovation — one that blends technical formation, academic excellence, and Gospel-centered purpose.

Expanding Catholic Education for Every Learner

Don Bosco Trade High School complements—not competes with—existing Catholic schools in the region. While neighboring schools have long provided strong academic and college-preparatory programs, DBTHS extends the mission of Catholic education by serving students whose talents, interests, and callings align with applied learning and workforce preparation.

This model opens—not limits—pathways for students. Some will matriculate directly into four-year colleges and universities; others will continue advanced studies in specialized technical programs; and many will enter the workforce fully licensed, credentialed, and confident in their craft. Whatever path they choose, each student will be equipped with the knowledge, faith, and character to thrive.

This is not a redistribution of students or donors—it is a renewal of Catholic mission to serve every learner. The school’s commitment to affordability, inclusion, and faith formation ensures that every young person—regardless of background—has access to a Catholic education that meets them where they are and helps them become who God created them to be.

The Opportunity

The inaugural President of Don Bosco Trade High School will have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to establish a transformative model of Catholic education designed for the modern age. Partnering with an inspired Board of Directors, founding benefactors, and community leaders, the President will serve as the chief executive, chief fundraiser, and chief storyteller for this new venture.

This is a mission-centered role for an entrepreneurial leader called to shape the vision, culture, and identity of a school that stands as a living expression of St. John Bosco’s legacy—where faith and skilled work come together to transform lives.

The Role

The President serves as the chief executive officer of Don Bosco Trade High School, responsible for mission advancement, strategy, and sustainability. Key responsibilities include:

• Lead the school’s strategic, financial, and organizational planning processes.
• Build and oversee a robust advancement program encompassing fundraising, alumni relations, and industry partnerships.
• Serve as the public ambassador for the school, fostering strong relationships with unions, employers, community organizations, and Church leadership.
• Recruit, mentor, and empower the founding leadership team, including the Principal, who oversees day-to-day academics and operations.
• Collaborate closely with the Board of Directors to ensure sound governance, fiscal responsibility, and alignment with Salesian and Catholic educational principles.

The President will model the entrepreneurial, relational, and faith-driven spirit essential to launching a Catholic CTE school from the ground up—balancing vision with discipline, strategy with stewardship, and innovation with integrity.

Core Responsibilities

The President of Don Bosco Trade High School serves as the chief executive officer and primary mission steward, responsible for shaping, launching, and sustaining this pioneering Catholic Career and Trade Education institution. Core responsibilities include:

• Establishing the school’s long-term strategic vision and overseeing implementation in collaboration with the Board of Directors.
• Leading the school’s advancement, capital, and fundraising efforts; cultivating major gifts and partnerships with individuals, foundations, and industry allies.
• Building and maintaining strong relationships with the Archdiocese, the Catholic Schools Office, civic leaders, and trade and business communities.
• Overseeing all aspects of finance, operations, and facilities to ensure the school’s fiscal integrity and future sustainability.
• Partnering with the Principal to develop academic and co-curricular excellence, faculty recruitment, and student enrollment growth.
• Serving as the public face and chief storyteller of Don Bosco Trade High School, inspiring confidence among donors, families, and the broader community.
• Recruiting, leading, and mentoring the senior administrative team while fostering a culture of collaboration, transparency, and trust.

Professional Qualifications & Requirements

• Practicing Catholic who supports and advances the teachings and mission of the Church.
• Proven success in senior leadership, advancement, or executive roles within education, nonprofit, or mission-driven organizations.
• Demonstrated skill in strategic planning, financial oversight, and stakeholder engagement.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills.
• Experience working with boards, donors, and external partners to achieve ambitious goals.
• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree in Education, Business, Leadership, or related field preferred.

The Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is a visionary and mission-driven leader with demonstrated success in executive management, fundraising, and organizational growth. Candidates should bring:

• A passion for Catholic education and a deep appreciation for the Salesian charism.
• Experience in advancement, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement.
• Strong financial acumen and organizational leadership skills.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities.
• An entrepreneurial mindset suited to a startup school environment.
• A collaborative, servant-leadership style grounded in faith, humility, and purpose.

Preferred qualifications include a Master’s degree in Education, Business, or a related field; experience in vocational, technical, or workforce development; and a successful record of leading growth initiatives within a Catholic, nonprofit, or educational organization.

Timeline & Process

ACELA Solutions is honored and incredibly excited to partner with the passionate and dedicated stakeholders behind Don Bosco Trade High School in launching this transformational new Catholic school community in eastern Massachusetts—one that will shape leaders of faith, craftsmanship, and purpose for generations to come.

• Anticipated Start Date: January–July 2026
• School Opening: August/September 2027
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Nominations, inquiries, and expressions of interest will be treated confidentially. Review of candidates will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

Faith. Craftsmanship. Opportunity. Preparedness.

A Catholic education that opens every pathway — to college, career, and life.