Our Leadership

As the Chief Executive Officer for St. Bonaventure Academy, I bring a wealth of experience in educational leadership and a strong commitment to fostering a thriving learning community. With 14 years of experience in educational leadership and 10 years of teaching experience, I possess a deep understanding of the intricacies of the field. Furthermore, my additional role as a firefighter for the past 10 years has equipped me with unique skills that contribute to the diverse skill set needed in this position.

I pursued my education at St. Bonaventure University, where I earned a Bachelor's degree in Pre-Law and Philosophy, followed by a Master's degree in Strategic Leadership. These academic achievements have provided me with a strong foundation in critical thinking, problem-solving, and strategic planning.

Throughout my career, I have achieved notable accomplishments. I am proud to be a mother of five young men, which has strengthened my appreciation for the importance of family values and the role they play in education. During my experience assuming leadership roles, I have held various administrative positions. In these roles, I successfully managed budget planning, oversaw accreditation and start-up processes, handled payroll and HR matters, prioritized school safety, resolved conflicts, facilitated service learning initiatives, streamlined operational systems, managed enrollment and scholarship processes, conducted curriculum research and coaching, and implemented blended learning approaches.

One of my strengths lies in creating a strong staff and student culture. By prioritizing teacher observations and staff recognition, I fostered a positive and collaborative environment among the staff. I also initiated student programs such as the PBIS discipline system, the Society of Established Women to empower young women, and the a successful, inner city rugby program, which earned the state championship title in 2021. Additionally, I have organized various school programming events such as talent shows, black history programs, art galleries, field days, and the unique "AAYE Day" where middle schoolers were surprised with classes in various locations around Cleveland when they thought they would be state testing. I implemented effective intervention programs and systems, facilitated the Leadership Gala to showcase student leadership, and introduced elective programming to provide students with diverse learning opportunities.

Building strong relationships with staff and students is a personal strength of mine. I deeply value the unique gifts and talents of each individual, recognizing the divine presence in all aspects of our work. I am dedicated to celebrating the uniqueness of every student and fostering an environment where everyone can thrive. As a lifelong learner, I am constantly inspired by the possibilities for growth among our students and staff.

With my extensive experience, passion for education, and a track record of successful program development, I am committed to leading St. Bonaventure Academy towards a future of excellence, empowering students, and creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

Harold Stafford Booker, a proud native of Canton, Ohio, was born to Raymond and Margaret Booker. He grew up alongside his sister, Pamela L. Booker, and brother, Michael Booker (Mary), and was educated in Canton City Schools, where he later returned to inspire young minds as an Elementary School Teacher at Allen School.

In 1987, Harold married his beloved wife, Kathy D. Harrison of Port Allen, Louisiana. Together, they built a legacy rooted in faith, family, and service, raising four exceptional children.

A Distinguished Career in Education

Harold’s passion for education and leadership led him to obtain an Administrative License, serving as:

• Assistant Principal at Lorain Middle School (Lorain) and Forest Park 5/6 Intermediate School (Euclid)

• Principal at Franklin Elementary (Elyria), Miles Elementary (Cleveland), and Roehm Middle School (Berea) for 13 years

• Superintendent’s License (2009) and a 30-year career in public education, retiring in July 2009

Even after retirement, his dedication to student success continued through roles such as:

• Administrator/Principal at HOPE Academy Broadway Campus (Cleveland)

• Mentor/Coach for Youngstown City School Principals

• Interim Principal at Richmond Heights Local Schools

• Principal at Anton Grdina and Assistant Principal at Patrick Henry School (Cleveland Metropolitan School District)

• Dean of Students at Ohio College Preparatory School (ACCEL Schools)

A Calling to Ministry

Harold’s faith journey led him to accept his call to ministry in 2003, and he was ordained on February 13, 2008, by Dr. C. Jay Matthews of Mt. Sinai Baptist Church in Cleveland, Ohio. His ministry work includes:

• Interim Pastor at St. Mark Baptist Church (Canton)

• Associate Pastor at Liberty Hill Baptist Church

• Interim Pastor at Progressive Baptist Church (Warren, Ohio)

• Founding Co-Pastor of The Well Church of Northeast Ohio (est. January 2019)

Today, The Well Church is led by his daughter and son-in-law, Pastor Will and Lady Brittany Kennedy, continuing the family’s legacy of faith and service.

Harold remains deeply committed to youth mentorship, faith leadership, and community engagement, dedicating countless hours of service to both his district, the Great Northern Ohio Baptist District Association, and the Ohio Baptist General Convention. His life’s work reflects a deep-seated belief in the power of education, faith, and service to transform lives.

Harold is guided by the words of his favorite scripture, Isaiah 40:31 “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; they shall walk, and not faint.”

“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.  While I can run, I’ll run; while I can walk, I’ll walk; when I can only crawl, I’ll crawl.  But by the Grace of God, I’ll always be moving forward.”