Dean of Students / Assistant Head of Upper School
Position Overview
The Dean of Students / Assistant Head of Upper School plays a key role in fostering a positive, inclusive, and accountable student culture while ensuring a supportive learning environment. Reporting to the Head of Upper School, this role is a critical member of the school leadership team. The Dean serves as a primary point of contact for students and families, oversees student behavior, and supports the school’s academic mission by integrating student well-being with academic success.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & School Culture
- Partner with the Head of Upper School to maintain the division's excellence and assume leadership responsibilities in their absence.
- Establish strong relationships with students, families, faculty, and staff, serving as a primary point of contact for concerns.
- Foster a positive school culture by emphasizing reflection, learning, and personal growth in disciplinary processes.
- Actively support and mentor student leaders, including the Upper School Student Council and Advisory Mentors.
Student Support & Well-being
Address emotional, situational, and behavioral challenges, working collaboratively with students, advisors, and parents.Coordinate with counselors, learning specialists, teachers, and advisors to support students in need.Develop and implement a comprehensive advisory program for grades 9-12, promoting personal and community relationships, emotional support, and academic success.Lead the 9th-grade team, designing programs to integrate new students into the school community and support their transition to high school.Academic & Operational Management
Collaborate with the Head of Upper School to review student grades and progress, ensuring timely communication with families.Oversee the Upper School calendar, coordinating events and activities to support the division’s goals.Organize and lead weekly faculty meetings to address student concerns and proactive support strategies.Student Life & Extracurricular Programming
Enhance teaching and learning experiences beyond the classroom by supervising programs such as interim weeks, experiential education days (x-days), and community gatherings.Design robust programming for new student transitions, including orientations and introductory sessions.Attend and supervise extracurricular and athletic events to actively contribute to the school community.Enrollment & Retention Support
Participate in the enrollment committee, collaborating with the admissions office on initiatives for new and returning students.Partner with the administrative team and Director of Enrollment to plan events and activities that promote retention and divisional transition.Teaching, Coaching, & Advising
Teach at least one course annually (subject and assignments determined with Administration).Serve as an advisor to a group of 7-10 students, supporting their academic and personal growth.Potentially coach one athletic season per year.Program Development & Vision
Oversee the strategic vision and curriculum for the advisory program, ensuring alignment with the school’s mission and goals.Collaborate on developing school-wide programs that enhance personal growth, leadership, and community building for students.Qualifications & Expectations
Proven experience in student support, leadership, or education roles.Strong interpersonal and communication skills for building relationships with students, families, and colleagues.Commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive school culture.Flexibility to engage in school events and programs beyond the classroom.
