Veteran educator Molly Krist is the new principal at Holy Name High School in Parma Heights. The announcement was made by the Diocese of Cleveland’s Office for Catholic Education.
Krist has more than 20 years’ experience in both Catholic and private schools. Diocesan education officials say she brings strong skills in instructional leadership, student formation, innovation and relationship building to Holy Name.
“I aspire to support a strong Catholic school culture and educational program that is focused on student learning and development. I want to promote staff professional development and growth, as well as teamwork and cooperation. Finally, I look forward to working with staff, parents, and family members to ensure students remain disciplined and focused and receive appropriate attention to excel in mind, body, and spirit,” Krist said, adding she is “excited about the opportunity to serve as principal of Holy Name.”
Shelbrey Blanc, Holy Name president and former principal, said she is eager to collaborate with Krist and welcomed her to the school.
“I look forward to working closely with Molly as we continue the important work of educating our students in the triple threat of mind, body and spirit. Her passion for Catholic education is contagious, and I am pleased to have her as our new instructional leader who will partner with me to advance our mission,” Blanc said.
Michael Zelenka, diocesan associate superintendent for secondary schools, said he shares Krist’s excitement about her new role.
“The Diocese of Cleveland’s Office for Catholic Education believes that Mrs. Krist possesses the skills and passion to lead Holy Name in its academic, extracurricular and faith-based programming. Her most recent educational experience at Hathaway Brown afforded her many opportunities to lead teachers, write and implement curricula for new programs and classes, and mentor students throughout their high school careers. Her energy and enthusiasm for education and our Catholic faith are infectious and we look forward to her tenure as Holy Name’s next principal.”
Krist most recently was an Upper School history teacher at Hathaway Brown School in Shaker Heights. She also served in other leadership roles at the private girls school.
Holy Name High School was founded in 1914 at Holy Name Parish on Cleveland’s Southeast Side as the first coeducational high school in the diocese. It moved to its current Parma Heights location – the former Nazareth Academy -- in 1978. The school, which has more than 17,500 alumni, marked its centennial in 2014. It ministers to more than 550 students and families from across Northeast Ohio.
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