Joseph DeAngelis may have tendered his resignation as principal of Father Judge High School two weeks ago but he’s not necessarily hanging up the Crusader blue.
"I’m not sure I’m leaving the school," DeAngelis said.
Although he’s stepping down for personal reasons from the demanding job of overseeing 1,200 boys, 61 faculty and 10 staff members — an administrative job he has held for six years — DeAngelis plans to continue working in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, perhaps as a teacher or guidance counselor.
He has held both positions during his 37-year tenure in education with the archdiocese and is awaiting word on other options that may exist for his career.
DeAngelis, 57, has spent most of that career on Solly Avenue, serving as the director of guidance for Father Judge, assistant principal for academic affairs, and as the school’s principal. He also taught science at Northeast Catholic High School for 14 years.
"It was a family decision. I have a need for more time to be with my family," he said of his change in plans. "A principal requires a lot of time beyond other roles that people have in the school. The position really needs someone who can put in more time."
A new assignment within Father Judge or the archdiocese would give DeAngelis more time to help care for his mother and also free up his summers.
"It will be the first time in thirteen years that I have a full vacation in August," he said. "Other years I couldn’t take more than a week, getting ready for the new school year. I need a break."
The Rev. Joseph Campellone, president of Father Judge, said DeAngelis’ decision took him by surprise.
"Joe decided after a lot of thought to move on to other things. We’re going to miss him. It’s going to be a gigantic loss," Campellone said.
The next task is to find a new principal.
"We’re putting together a process," Campellone said of the candidate search. "We have to follow the archdiocese’s guidelines."
DeAngelis’ duties with Father Judge High School will conclude in about six weeks.
"He’s going to be here until August 31," Campellone said. "He’s still here and still working hard. It’s business as usual." ••
Reporter Diane Prokop can be reached at 215-354-3036 or dprokop@phillynews.com