Associate Dean of Student Support Services

Position Title: Associate Dean of Student Support Services 

Position Overview: 

The Associate Dean of Student Support Services is responsible for overseeing a comprehensive range of student services. This includes leading support initiatives, coordinating counseling services, overseeing health services, food services, and before-and-extended care programs. The Associate Dean will also coordinate event planning and setup for school activities, while promoting a Christ-centered environment where students can thrive spiritually and holistically. 

Key Responsibilities: 

Counseling and Mental Health Support: 

• Oversee partnerships with counseling services for students dealing with emotional, social, and mental health issues. 
• Offer crisis intervention and manage referrals to external resources as needed. 
• Implement wellness programs that help students develop resilience, mental well-being, and coping skills. 
• Guide students and families through stress management, peer relationships, and other emotional challenges. 

Before and Extended Day Programs: 

• Oversee the administration and coordination of before-and-after school care programs. 
• Ensure that students are supervised in a safe, engaging, and supportive environment. 
• Hire, train, and manage staff for before and after care programs. 
• Communicate with parents about schedules, expectations, and any program changes. 
• Plan enrichment activities that align with the school’s values and provide positive experiences for students outside of regular school hours. 

Health Services: 

• Supervise health services, including the management of a school nurse or healthcare team. 
• Ensure that student health needs are addressed, including handling illness, injuries, and medical conditions during school hours. 
• Support health services as they maintain up-to-date health records and ensure compliance with school policies and state regulations. 

Food Services: 

• Oversee the operation of the school’s food services program, ensuring meals are nutritious, safe, and aligned with health standards. 
• Collaborate with food service vendors, if applicable, to plan menus that meet dietary restrictions, preferences, and nutritional guidelines. 
• Ensure that food service is responsive to student needs and allergies, maintaining an inclusive approach. 
• Manage any food-related events (e.g., school lunches, special meals for holidays or events). 

Event Planning and Setup: 

• Coordinate set-up with volunteer team a sense of community through school-wide celebrations, fundraisers, and student gatherings. 

Collaboration with School Staff: 

• Work closely with teachers and administrators to address students' needs during difficult times (i.e. hospitalizations, bereavement, family changes) 
• Assist with implementing school-wide initiatives focused on positive student outcomes and community engagement. 

Qualifications: 

Education: 

• Degree in Education, Counseling, Social Work, Ministry, or a related field (required). 
• Certifications or licensure in counseling, school leadership, or related areas (preferred). 

Experience: 

• 3-5 years of experience in student services, ministry, counseling, education, with a focus on student support and well-being. 
• Experience in managing before and after care, health services, or food services in an educational setting is a plus. 
• Experience in a Christian school or faith-based environment is preferred. 

Skills: 

• Strong organizational and time-management skills to oversee multiple programs and responsibilities. 
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal. 
• Leadership and team-building capabilities, with experience managing staff. 
• Ability to develop and manage budgets related to health services, food services, and other programs. 
• Knowledge of child development, mental health issues, and best practices in education. 
• Ability to integrate Christian faith and principles into all aspects of student support services. 

Personal Qualities: 

• Committed follower of Jesus Christ.  
• Compassionate, approachable, and an empathetic listener. 
• Strong commitment to the Biblical values, mission and values of the school. 
• Ability to handle confidential and sensitive situations with discretion. 
• Flexible and adaptable, with the ability to juggle multiple priorities. 
• Passionate about fostering a safe, nurturing, and Christ-centered environment for students. 

Working Conditions: 

• Full-time position, with the potential for evening or weekend work related to event planning, before/after care, or family engagement. 
• Some travel may be required for field trips or professional development.