This change in governance comes with approval from the Archdiocese of Newark; Dr. Margaret Dames, Superintendent of Schools; and Mr. John O’Neil, Associate Superintendent of Secondary Schools.

Ms. Molloy, a former 50+-year resident of Ridgewood, has been a member of the Immaculate Heart Academy faculty for 43 years. She served on the administrative team for 35 of those years, 10 of them as principal. Ms. Molloy received a B.A. degree in English from Caldwell University, a M.A. degree in education from Seton Hall University, and completed administrative certification courses at St. Peter’s University. She said she feels confident she will bring to the role of president not only her love of IHA, but also her immeasurable experience.

“Having dedicated my career to Immaculate Heart Academy, I hope to continue to contribute to this outstanding school in a new and challenging role,” she said. “My history at IHA has provided me with a perspective on the institutional history of the school that is invaluable in mapping its progress forward. IHA is my home, my family, and the focus of my life. My 43 years here have been a blessing.”

Mr. Schlereth, who grew up in Teaneck and has lived in Bergenfield for the past nine years, is a Bergen Catholic graduate from the Class of 1998. He received a B.A. in history and education from William Paterson University and a M.A. degree in educational leadership from St. Peter’s University. After teaching in the Leonia Public School district, Mr. Schlereth started at IHA as the athletic director. He became a member of the administrative team in 2010 and was promoted from assistant principal to vice principal in 2013. He said he looks forward to taking on the challenging position of principal, and is eager to concentrate his full energy and attention to the day-to-day management of the school.

“It is an honor to be tasked with leading an institution as prestigious as IHA,” he said. “I am very much looking forward to the opportunity to work with such a dedicated, talented faculty and a wonderful student body. Immaculate Heart Academy is a special place filled with tremendous people, and I am thrilled to begin my new position at the school.”