What are the responsibilities and job description for the Founding Dean of Operations position at Excel Academy Charter Schools?
Organization Overview
Excel Academy is a network of 5 schools in Massachusetts and Rhode Island that prepares students in grades 5-12 to succeed in high school and college and engage productively in their communities. The majority of our 1,700 students identify as Latinx or Hispanic and will be the first in their families to graduate from college. Families choose Excel because our students consistently outperform their peers in growth and achievement and are 5x more likely to graduate from college.
At Excel, we believe that every student—regardless of race, zip code, or economic status—deserves access to a free, high quality, holistic education. During their middle school journey with us, students grow at a pace faster than most peers in their state. This is possible through a combination of high expectations, rigorous instruction, and individualized support. At our nationally ranked high school, students achieve at the highest level and are poised for success in their chosen college or career path. The Excel journey doesn't end after high school; we provide individualized support for up to six years after graduation to ensure that Excel alumni persist through college and beyond.
About Our Team
Everyday, our team members choose to be positive, drive their own growth, uplift one another, and hold the highest possible beliefs for what students can achieve.
About the Role
The Founding Dean of Operations will lead the operational design, development, and launch of our Excel Rhode Island High School, scheduled to open in the 2026-2027 school year. This role requires a hands-on leader who will ensure that all aspects of school operations, systems, and logistics are established during the 2025-2026 planning year to enable a smooth and successful school opening.
As a key member of the school leadership team, the Founding Dean of Operations will build and lead the Operations Team, ensuring that Excel Rhode Island High School operates with efficiency, excellence, and equity. During the planning year, the Dean will work closely with Excel’s network leaders and school leadership team to design and implement all operational structures necessary for a high-functioning school. Once the school opens, the Founding Dean of Operations will be responsible for ensuring that all school operations run seamlessly every day, allowing teachers and students to focus on learning.
Your Impact
2025-2026: Planning Year
- Develop and implement all operational systems, including facilities, food service, transportation, budgeting, and compliance.
- Lead school setup, including procurement of furniture, technology, and supplies.
- Collaborate with the network team to ensure the facility is ready for launch.
- Recruit and train key operations staff and ensure a seamless school opening.
- Support student recruitment and enrollment efforts to meet school enrollment goals.
2026-2027 & Beyond: School Operations Leadership
Once the school is launched, the Founding Dean of Operations will oversee all daily operations, ensuring a safe, efficient, and joyful learning environment.
Leadership & Management
- Develop the school-wide operational vision in partnership with network and school leadership.
- Lead the Operations Team, hiring, managing, and coaching staff to ensure strong performance.
- Play a key role in budgeting and financial oversight, ensuring alignment with school priorities.
Finance & Purchasing
- Develop and actively manage the school budget in collaboration with the network finance team.
- Oversee purchasing, expense tracking, and vendor management.
- Ensure financial compliance and reporting.
Facilities & Maintenance
- Oversee facility management, ensuring safety, cleanliness, and organization.
- Manage vendor relationships and maintenance needs.
- Ensure summer renovations and capital projects are completed on schedule.
Food Service, Transportation, & Special Events
- Ensure smooth daily operations for meal service and transportation.
- Lead logistics planning for field trips, special events, and family engagement nights.
- Manage arrival and dismissal procedures for student safety and efficiency.
Technology & Equipment
- Ensure staff and students have the necessary technology to support learning.
- Oversee the inventory and maintenance of school assets like Chromebooks and instructional materials.
Student Information, Testing & Educator Support
- Maintain accurate student data and ensure compliance with all reporting requirements.
- Manage logistics for student testing, report cards, and scheduling.
- Coordinate staff coverage and substitute teacher assignments.
Student Recruitment & Enrollment
- Lead enrollment and re-enrollment efforts, ensuring full enrollment each year.
- Execute family engagement and outreach strategies to build strong community ties.
Risk Management, Compliance & HR Support
- Oversee safety and emergency preparedness, ensuring proper training and drills.
- Support HR functions, including new hire onboarding, compliance tracking, and leave management.
Qualifications
- A minimum of three years of experience as a Director, Dean or Manager of Operations in an urban public school or charter school setting required;
- The ability to speak Spanish preferred, but not required;
- Excellent prioritization and time management skills, and a systematic approach to project management;
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills;
- Experience in spreadsheet or database management;
- Demonstrated success in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment;
- The ability to work effectively in a team environment and the willingness and desire to support others in doing their best work;
- A commitment to working with underserved, urban youth; and
- An unwavering commitment to and belief in the mission of Excel Academy Charter Schools, including Excel’s values and educational model
