Director of Student Support - Now Hiring

Position Start Date: 2023-2024 School Year About MICDS MICDS has a rich and distinctive history spanning more than 150 years. A leader in independent education, MICDS is a college-prep, coeducational school for grades JK-12. Our mission is to help students discover their unique talents, preparing them for higher education and a life of purpose and service as engaged citizens in our ever-changing world. Employee Benefits MICDS offers employees a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits plan, including a generous 403(b) retirement plan where the School contributes 8% of salary with an employee's 3% contribution; medical, dental and vision insurance; flexible spending accounts and long term care insurance; life insurance and short-term and long-term disability insurances; tuition benefit; paid leaves; access to a fitness center; and free lunch. Application Process For immediate consideration, complete our online application at -school/career-opportunities/ and upload a copy of your cover letter and resume. JOB SUMMARY The Director of Student Support leads the work of the Support Services Department under the guidance of the Assistant Head of School for Teaching and Learning. The Director of Student Support is responsible for aligning student services with School goals, collecting and reporting data on student progress, collaborating on supports and interventions for students, and bringing an inclusion lens to academic policy discussions. The Director of Student Support serves on the Academic Leadership Team for the School as well as the Student Support Group/Committee in each division. Additionally, the Director of Student Support is the liaison for the Office of Admission and consults on admissions decisions. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Expertise in Student Support Practices and Instruments: The Director provides guidance and support for MICDS staff, faculty, parents, and students through constant engagement in research and professional growth. This work includes administration of standardized testing to monitor individual student progress and overall impacts of the educational program. Development, Implementation, and Oversight of Support Structures for Students: The Director coordinates the development and implementation of student support structures in all three MICDS divisions, including school counseling, health services, learning accommodations and interventions, and the Upper School Academic Center Coaching program. The Director facilitates divisional and cross-divisional student-to-student mentoring and tutoring programs and supports the critical transition points as students shift divisions. Admissions Support: The Director is intermittently available through the summer to review and consult on student admissions files. Once admissions decisions are made, the Director supports onboarding and progress monitoring for new students. Development and Support of Social Emotional Programming: The Director leads our efforts to develop and strengthen social emotional learning through classes and student advisory groups in partnership with the Dean of Curriculum and Instruction and grade-level deans. This work includes planning parent education events. Guidance and Support of Positive Behavior Management: The Director supports program development and professional development for classroom management and restorative practices. Inclusion Lens: The Director works to ensure inclusive teaching and learning practices with regard to student mental health, neurodiversity, and disability. The Director researches and identifies opportunities to support the needs of students in concert with the faculty and staff. Collaborative Leadership: The Director develops positive relationships within their department and with other departments at the School in a commitment to strong and effective teamwork. The Director raises concerns, embraces productive conflict, is receptive to feedback, and works toward consensus and compromise in the service of continual improvement. The Director works with senior leadership to develop institutional responses for crisis and risk management. JOB REQUIREMENTS AND QUALIFICATIONS * Master's degree in a related field such as school psychology, educational psychology, special education, child/adolescent development * Experience as a counselor or learning specialist * Experience with Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion work * Direct, warm, and curious communication style * Strong practice of self-directed professional development * Effective workflow management and administrative acumen OTHER INFORMATION * A criminal history and background check must be successfully completed. * Position requires working in standard office conditions and climate. * Position may require work at a desk and computer for extended periods of time. * Other projects and responsibilities may be added at the School's discretion.