Jerome Scarcella Joins Chesterton as New Headmaster

Mr. Jerome Scarcella

Headmaster

With over 35 years of experience in education, Mr. Jerome Scarcella has dedicated his life to shaping students and mentoring educators through a Christ-centered approach to leadership. A native of New York, he holds a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education and Exercise Science and a Master’s in Education, both from the State University of New York at Buffalo.

Mr. Scarcella’s career is marked not only by professional excellence but by a steadfast commitment to his Catholic faith. Every step of his journey—from the baseball field to the classroom—has been guided by his relationship with Jesus Christ. “Without Him,” he often says, “none of these things would have been possible.”

Before beginning his career in education, Mr. Scarcella was drafted in the 4th round by the San Francisco Giants in 1972 and went on to play five seasons in professional baseball. Following his playing career, he worked in sports rehabilitation, assisting with the recovery of athletes from the NFL, NHL, and Olympic teams. These early experiences laid the foundation for his lifelong focus on discipline, perseverance, and character development. In 2015, he was inducted into the Western New York Baseball Hall of Fame as both a player and coach.

Throughout his years as an educator in Buffalo and Williamsville schools, Mr. Scarcella taught health science and physical education, developed curriculum, coached a wide range of sports at both the JV and Varsity levels, and served as an assistant principal overseeing 900 students and 50 faculty members. He also served on the special education committee and organized athletic opportunities for Special Olympics athletes. His love for education is deeply rooted in the opportunity it gives him to mentor young people—developing faith, values, and personal integrity.

A lifelong learner, Mr. Scarcella has participated in countless leadership programs and has been deeply inspired by the servant leadership of St. John Paul II. He believes that Catholic classical education, through the Chesterton model, has the power to transform lives and is honored to serve as the Headmaster of Chesterton Academy of St. Padre Pio. A devoted husband and father and parishioner of Our Lady of the Angeles in Lakewood Ranch, Mr. Scarcella continues to inspire those around him with humility, wisdom, and a passion for sharing the love of Christ.