St. Joseph's Collegiate Institute principal Jeffery Hazel has been named Director of Instructional Technology and Learning for the Niagara Wheatfield Public School District.  The district's Board of Education approved the hiring at its regular meeting on Mar. 16.

Hazel joined St. Joe's in July 2011, after serving two years as principal of Niagara-Wheatfield High School, where he taught mathematics for eight years before becoming principal.
"St. Joseph's Collegiate Institute is thankful for the leadership Mr. Hazel has provided our school community during his years with us, his sense of our Lasallian mission, his educational vision, and his work with our faculty, especially in mentoring those who have joined us in the last few years." said Robert T. Scott, AFSC, president of the school.

During Hazel's tenure at St. Joe's, with the support of the SJCI community and teacher leaders, the school implemented a one-to-one iPad program, increased student engagement in learning and engaged faculty in teacher-led staff development.

"The Lasallian educational community is one who has at its core, a focus on developing each child's unique talents in community with others," Hazel said.  "It has been an honor to work with such a mission-driven school community of professional educators, parents, and alumni - all for the benefit of the students.  The lessons I have learned at St. Joe's will stay with me throughout my career."

Hazel has three degrees from the University at Buffalo:  Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics/Economics; Master of Education in Mathematics Education and Master of Education in Educational Administration.

He also served as an adjunct mathematics instructor at the University at Buffalo Center for Academic Development summer program, UB's Thomas J. Edwards Learning Center, Niagara County Community College and Buffalo State College.

He is a president of the Board of Directors of the University at Buffalo Graduate School of Education Alumni Association and a member of the board of UB's Alumni Association.

Hazel's last day at St. Joe's will be Mar. 27.  He assumes his new position at Niagara Wheatfield on Apr. 7.
Brother Christopher Belleman, FSC, vice president of student affairs at St. Joe's, has been named interim principal.  Scott said the search for Hazel's successor will begin immediately.