Director of Student Life

The Stony Brook School, a distinguished independent, faith-based boarding and day school, seeks a Director of Student Life. This 12-month, full-time leadership position offers the opportunity to shape a vibrant, Christ-centered experience for students in grades 7-12. The Director of Student Life will play a pivotal role in our mission of prioritizing character development before career, fostering student growth across academic, emotional, social, and spiritual dimensions. Working collaboratively with faculty, staff, and parents, the Director will cultivate a culture of faith, leadership, and community, guiding students through their educational journey with purpose, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to character.

Position Overview

As a key member of the school, the Director of Student Life will oversee a range of programs that promote the well-being and holistic development of students, including residential life, co-curricular activities, service learning, and discipline. In addition to collaborating with faculty, staff, and administration, the Director will work closely with parents to provide guidance on student well-being and progress. This role is essential in cultivating a safe, supportive, and engaging environment where students grow in faith, knowledge, and leadership, aligned with the school's mission to inspire young people to serve the world with character.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Residential Life and Boarding Program:

• Oversee the residential life program for students in grades 7-12, ensuring a safe, supportive, and spiritually enriching living environment.
• Develop and implement residential life activities and programs that promote community building, personal growth, and Christian values.
• Supervise and support residential staff, including Dorm Heads and Dorm parents, ensuring the team is well-trained and effective in their roles.
• Lead in the creation and enforcement of residential life policies and procedures, including student discipline, conflict resolution, and pastoral care.
• Act as a key liaison between residential staff, students, and parents, addressing concerns and ensuring consistent communication.

• Oversee and support a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including athletics, student clubs, and community service programs.
• Collaborate with faculty and staff to design and implement co-curricular programming that complements the academic experience and supports student engagement.
• Ensure that all co-curricular activities align with the school's mission and core values.

• Oversee and manage service-learning initiatives across campus, providing diverse opportunities for student engagement.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive service-learning curriculum for advisory groups and dormitories.
• Maintain and manage the service platform, MobileServe, ensuring all students meet the annual service requirements.
• Collaborate with the Service-Learning Team to continuously assess, revise, and enhance programming to inspire students to "serve the world through their character and leadership".

1. Student Wellness and Discipline:

• Ensure that students are supported academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. Lead student wellness initiatives that promote mental health, physical well-being, and positive behavior.
• Work with the Student Support Team to monitor students' academic progress and address any behavioral or emotional concerns.
• Lead in the implementation of restorative justice practices and disciplinary procedures that uphold the school's values while ensuring fairness and consistency.
• Provide counseling and pastoral care to students, offering spiritual guidance, mentorship, and support.

• Foster a Christ-centered school culture where students are encouraged to live out their faith, both individually and within the community.
• Partner with the Assistant Head of School during orientation to ensure all new students feel welcomed and integrated into the school community.
• Develop and implement leadership training programs for student leaders, focusing on character, service, and stewardship.
• Mentor and conduct regular meetings with Dorm Prefects to provide guidance and support.

1. Collaboration with Faculty and Administration:

• Work closely with the Assistant Head of School and Senior Leadership Team to align student life initiatives with the broader school vision and strategic goals.
• Participate in school-wide committees, initiatives, and events as necessary.
• Provide regular updates to the administrative team regarding student life and residential life programs.
• Collaborate with the Business Office to set and track Student Life Budgets for the school year.
• Partner with the Facilities Office to suggest regular updates to dorms as necessary.
• Regularly meet with the school's food service provider to give feedback and plan special events.

• Serve as the primary point of contact for parents regarding their child's residential and co-curricular life experience, maintaining regular and transparent communication.
• Develop and implement programs to engage parents in the life of the school, including parent weekends, volunteer opportunities, and informational meetings.
• Promote the school's mission and values in all student life initiatives, ensuring alignment with the broader school community and its Christian ethos.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree required, master's degree in Higher Education, Student Affairs, Counseling, or related field preferred.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in student life or residential life, preferably in a private school or Christian educational setting.
• Strong understanding of adolescent development and effective strategies for fostering a healthy, supportive school community.
• Experience leading student activities, including residential programs, extracurriculars, and student leadership development.
• A deep commitment to Christian faith, education, and ministry, with the ability to model and mentor students in their spiritual and moral growth.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and collaborate effectively with diverse teams.
• Strong conflict resolution skills and the ability to address sensitive issues with discretion, professionalism, and compassion.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, to support student activities and events.

Physical Demands:

• The position requires regular interaction with students and staff in both indoor and outdoor environments.
• Ability to participate in physical activities and supervise students during events and activities.
• Occasional lifting, carrying, and moving of equipment and supplies for activities and events.

Salary and Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience including free housing and utilities.
• Comprehensive benefits package includes free premiums for high-quality medical and dental coverage, a Defined Contribution 403(b) plan with immediate vesting and a 7.5% matching contribution, school-paid life insurance, long-term disability, and accidental death & dismemberment policies.
• Additional benefits include professional development opportunities, free meals during the school year, tuition remission, generous paid leave, access to athletic facilities, and a scenic campus fostering a vibrant, family-friendly community.
• Relocation assistance is available through a moving reimbursement program.

About The Stony Brook School

Founded in 1922, The Stony Brook School exists to challenge young men and women to know Jesus Christ as Lord, to love others as themselves, and to grow in knowledge and skill. As an independent college preparatory school for grades 7-12, we inspire students to lead lives of significance and service through their character, leadership, and faith. Nestled on the scenic North Shore of Long Island, our campus is a haven for academic excellence, spiritual growth, and lifelong friendships.

Salary Range: $50,000 to $78,000 commensurate to experience.

Equal Employment Opportunity: In order to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all individuals, employment decisions at The Stony Brook School will be based on merit, qualifications, experience, and abilities. We do not discriminate based on race, color, sex, national origin, age, citizenship, genetic predisposition, or any characteristic protected by law.

Salary : $50,000 - $78,000