What are the responsibilities and job description for the Dean of Academics position at Des Moines Prep?
Job Description
Job Description
About Des Moines Prep
Des Moines Prep is a new public charter high school opening in August 2025 to serve 150 ninth-grade students in its inaugural class. The school will add an additional grade level each year, building out a full comprehensive high school that offers academic excellence, a wide array of extracurriculars, and hyper-focused college and career preparation. As one of our flagship schools for Opportunity Education, Des Moines Prep aims to set a model for schools nationwide.
About the Role : Dean of Academics
The Dean of Academics will play a pivotal role in driving the educational success of students at Des Moines Prep. As a member of the administrative team, the Dean will be responsible for ensuring exceptional academic outcomes within the classroom by overseeing student achievement, teacher development, and effective implementation of instructional strategies. Reporting to the school principal, the Dean of Academics will provide leadership in fostering a culture of high expectations, data-driven decision-making, and continuous improvement among both students and staff.
This role is ideal for an experienced instructional leader who is passionate about achieving measurable academic results, thrives in a collaborative and mission-driven environment, and is eager to develop systems and structures that support excellence in teaching and learning.
Responsibilities
As a dynamic and growing organization, responsibilities may evolve; however, core areas of focus include :
Instructional Leadership and Student Achievement (45%)
- Lead the school's efforts to achieve high levels of student academic performance as measured by internal and external assessments.
- Analyze and utilize student engagement data through Opportunity Education's PIOD Engagement Model (Participate, Invest, Own, Drive) to improve classroom outcomes.
- Facilitate regular data team meetings with teachers to analyze academic and engagement data, identify trends, and create actionable plans to drive improvement.
- Regularly monitor progress toward academic goals and implement interventions as needed to ensure all students reach their full potential.
Teacher Coaching and Development (30%)
Response to Intervention (RTI) Management (15%)
School Leadership and Collaboration (10%)
Ideal Candidate Experiences
Ideal Candidate Traits
Application Process
Interested applicants should apply here .
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis with preference given to candidates applying before. Candidates advancing through the process should expect multiple rounds of interviews with various stakeholders, a performance task, thorough reference checks, and a blend of in-person and virtual interviews. The goal is to identify the ideal candidate by _______ .
Compensation
Salary is currently budgeted in a range of $70,000-$80,000, commensurate with experience. This role is eligible for IPERS (Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System).
Start Date & Additional Questions
The expected start date for the position is sometime in June of 2025 as a year round employee.
Statement of Non-Discrimination
Opportunity Education is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace where all individuals are valued and respected.
Salary : $70,000 - $80,000
