After 17 years as principal
Mr. Waler announces intent to retire in June 2023
After 17 years as NDCL’s principal, Mr. Joseph A. Waler announced today that he will end his ministry of leadership at the conclusion of this school year. His last day as principal will be June 30.
Mr. Waler is NDCL’s longest-serving principal since the school’s founding in 1988. In fact, in the 145-year combined history of Notre Dame Academy, Cathedral Latin School, and NDCL, only one principal served longer than Mr. Waler—and that was Sister Girolama Lehmkuhl, who served as NDA principal from 1885-1918.
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| LIONS’ BIGGEST FAN: Mr. Waler joins the cheerleaders to cheer on the Lions. After 17 years as NDCL principal, Mr. Waler will retire in June. |
“Once I realized I could never beat Sister Girolama’s impressive 33-year record, I figured it was time to step aside!” joked the always comical Mr. Waler.
“Seriously, I do think now is the right time both professionally and personally to leave the principal’s role,” Mr. Waler explained. “Our status as a National Blue Ribbon School and as a Top Workplace confirms NDCL’s strength and vitality in so many areas. Together, our students, staff, parents, and alumni have worked with me to build a highly successful school that should be very attractive to many outstanding principal candidates.”
“As much as I love my job and our school, I’ve reached the point in my life where it’s time for more flexibility and less responsibility,” he added.
Mr. Waler has served 43 years in Catholic education in the Diocese of Cleveland, including a total of 27 years as a school administrator at Trinity High School and NDCL.
“I have been so blessed to share in the lives of thousands of wonderful young people and dedicated colleagues for more than 40 years,” he added. “Their faces, the memories we share—I’ll treasure them in my heart always.”
What’s next for Mr. Waler?
“I honestly don’t know,” he said. “I’ll turn 64 in June, so I think I still have a few good years left to make a difference somehow. I’m looking forward to the surprises God has in mind for me!”
Notre Dame Schools President Dr. Michael Bates expressed appreciation to Mr. Waler for his service and devotion to NDCL.
“Because I have worked in six dioceses and at eight high schools, I know Mr. Waler is one of a kind,” Dr. Bates said. “His dedication, first and foremost, to students is what distinguishes his leadership and career.”
“Mr. Waler has built a strong community at Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin that transforms our world by its care, spirit, kindness, and pursuit of excellence. This community of students, alumni, parents, and Sisters of Notre Dame gives hope to a world in need of light, truth, and love. By his faith, by his commitment, and by his care, Mr. Waler’s love has led NDCL to be all that it is today,” Dr. Bates explained.
According to Dr. Bates, plans are already in the works for a celebration of Mr. Waler’s ministry toward the end of the school year.
The search for Mr. Waler’s successor will begin soon. Dr. Bates will lead the search committee. To apply or to nominate a candidate, please email [email protected].
Dr. Bates will keep the school community updated on the progress of the search as it unfolds. He expects to name NDCL’s next principal in the spring.