Dean of Students

Department: Administration

Reports to: Principal

Job Purpose:

The Dean of Students at Saint Viator plays a key role in supporting the mission and values of our Catholic school community. This position is responsible for setting clear expectations for student conduct by upholding and communicating Saint Viator High School’s values, promoting academic success, protecting the health and welfare of students, and monitoring dress code compliance. Additionally, it is important to work with the administration to set guidelines and support the daily operations of the school, especially in the areas of attendance and discipline. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist students in establishing high standards of conduct.
• Foster a positive school culture and learning environment that emphasizes respect, inclusivity, and collaboration.
• Address behavioral issues through counseling, conflict resolution, and restorative practices.
• Work closely with the Principal and President in directing the discipline program.
• Investigate student complaints and grievances.
• Interview students and witnesses in disciplinary investigations.
• Investigate, adjudicate, and monitor infractions of the school code in the form of progressive discipline such as detentions and in-school suspension.
• Suspend students from school in accordance with school policy.
• Supervise the attendance officer.
• Decide if absences are excusable under state law and school policy.
• Monitor hallways, cafeteria, parking lot, and other areas where students may be present.
• Enforce dress code policy.
• Respond to emergencies and crises involving students, ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals while at school.
• Implement safety and intervention drills and plans as needed and mandated by the State of Illinois each year. 
• Manage school detentions as needed.
• Coordinate transportation by supervising the Metra train and bus shuttle daily.
• Review the Parent/Student Handbook annually and recommend changes. 
• Work with the Director of Buildings and Grounds to file the Annual Review Report with the State of Illinois.
• Respond to any reports concerning inappropriate conduct received via the state of Illinois anonymous reporting system, "Safe to Help."
• Serve as a liaison between school and home.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications/Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree; Master’s degree preferred.
• Administrative License preferred.
• Two years of experience as a Dean of Students in a high school setting.
• Practicing Catholic preferred; must support Catholic teachings and values.

Skills and Abilities:

• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Ability to build rapport with students, staff, and parents.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse educational environment.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to interact effectively with a variety of audiences and individuals.

Working Environment or Conditions:

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; use hands and fingers to operate a computer, telephone, and keyboard; and reach with hands and arms.
• The employee is continuously interacting with the public, staff, and students.
• The employee must frequently meet multiple demands from several people.
• Moderate lifting is required.

About Saint Viator High School:

Saint Viator High School is a Catholic, college-preparatory community of learning called to provide religious formation and an academic program of excellence to young men and women. Guided by the Viatorian mission, all Saint Viator graduates are equipped to discern who God wants them to be, discover what the world needs, and transform the communities they encounter.