The rector of St Aloysius College, Maria Montebello, submitted her resignation as College Rector on Tuesday, just three months after taking over one of the longest-standing Church schools.

No reason was provided behind this decision.

In a joint statement published on the College's website, Montebello thanked all staff for their support during her tenure. The College also thanked Montebello for her services and wished her well in her future.

This newsroom has confirmed that this resignation is effective immediately and that the College will recommence its process to find her replacement in due course.

Montebello was appointed Rector of St Aloysius College earlier this May, succeeding Fr. Jimmy Bartolo after he served in this role for twelve and a half years.

She was the college's first female and lay rector in its 118-year history.

One of the reasons behind her much-publicised appointment was her past success in helping St Ignatius College Girls' Secondary School transition into a co-ed middle school with both girls and boys.

St Aloysius Secondary School is currently undergoing its first year ever with female students. 

In a separate communication signed by the college board chairperson, Fr Michael Bugeja, the institution informed parents and guardians that the welfare of its students remained its foremost concern and that daily operations would proceed without disruption.

The letter stated that the heads of schools, working alongside the chairperson, would continue guiding the college. It added that all academic, pastoral, and administrative functions were operating as usual. Moreover, it affirmed that the council of heads, the senior leadership team, and the board would provide consistent, stable, and coordinated support during this transitional phase.

Montebello's professional journey in education began as a teacher at a primary school in Żurrieq before she transferred to a secondary school in Kirkop.

She later undertook studies in educational administration and subsequently served as assistant head at St Benedict College's Għaxaq primary school.

She was later appointed head of school at St Benedict College's Safi primary school. Her most recent leadership role was as head of St Ignatius College, Prof. Edward de Bono Ħandaq Middle School.