Courtesy of Villa Maria Cathedral Preparatory Catholic School System
Villa Maria Cathedral Preparatory Catholic School System (VMCPCSS) has announced that President Kevin Smith will transition from his role at the end of the 2025-26 academic year.
The decision was made mutually between Smith and the VMCPCSS Board of Directors following four years of service leading the school system.
School officials credited Smith with helping guide VMCPCSS through a significant period of growth and change, including the unification of Villa Maria Academy and Cathedral Preparatory School on a single campus, the opening of the Salata Technology & Innovation Center, and efforts to strengthen the long-term foundation of the school system.
The Board emphasized that the school’s faith-based mission, academic programs, and commitment to students, families, faculty, and staff will continue uninterrupted during the leadership transition.
To provide continuity, Jason Ladouceur, the school’s vice president of academics and student affairs, will serve as interim president.
Ladouceur brings more than 15 years of experience in education and school leadership in the Erie region. Since joining Cathedral Prep in 2014 as a faculty member and coach, he has served in a variety of administrative roles. School officials said he will work closely with the Board, faculty, staff, and families to ensure a smooth transition.
The Board of Directors plans to begin a comprehensive search for the next president, focusing on candidates who can build upon the school’s existing foundation while advancing its academic excellence, faith-based mission, and community engagement.