Dean of Students and Culture (TK-8)

Dean of Students and Culture

Position Title: Dean of Students and Culture
Reports To: Principal
Employment Type: Full-Time

Who are we

We are a TK-12 Charter organization of 4 small public schools.  We aim to provide scholars in the Los Angeles community with the highest quality instructional standards based program centered on values that are deeply rooted in serving them on a daily basis.  Our schools are as follows: 

Downtown Value School, serving TK-8th Grade; Everest Value School, serving TK-8th Grade; Central City Value High School, serving 9th-12th Grade; and University Prep Value High School, serving 9th-12 Grade.

Who are you

We are looking for educators who are passionate about urban education and serving students throughout the Los Angeles area.  We want to ensure all educators are highly trained, skilled and qualified to serve students who are traditionally underserved.   We seek educators who are values aligned and mission driven to support diverse learners.  We want to ensure all educators are collaborative, open to feedback, reflective and open to growing within their own profession.  

Our Mission

The Value Schools mission is to establish and support high quality, values based elementary and secondary charter schools for populations of students who have been historically underserved by the public school system.

How we do our work

• Small school settings: Value Schools knows that strong, positive relationships are key to student success. That happens best in places "where everybody knows your name" and nobody slips through the cracks.

• Vibrant campus life: Value Schools students are encouraged to develop their interests in a wide variety of areas. Opportunities for enrichment, physical activity, leadership and service are provided on every Value Schools campus.

• Student-centered curriculum using research-based materials: A standards-based curriculum focuses on what students know, not what teachers teach. Student-focused learning ensures teachers provide learning activities and tasks suited to individual needs.

• Dedicated and enthusiastic parents: Our parents are an integral part of our campus life. Through their involvement, parents develop an extended community that enriches not only the life of the school, but the lives of families as well.

• Highly trained and committed educators: Professional collaboration is the key to improving teaching skills. Our teachers are dedicated to working together to become exceptional educators.

Our Values

• Academic excellence is the means to a full life: Academic success helps every person live a richer and fuller life.  As an educator  we will continue to grow professionally to better support our students and their academic success. 

• Each student can develop to his or her fullest potential: Everyone can learn, and even though not everyone's the same type of learner, as educators we will support them in growing to their fullest potential. 

• Each individual is unique and deserves respect:  Each individual is unique and deserves respect.  By respecting our differences we afford each other with the opportunity to pursue life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. These rights accord each with dignity that is to be respected by all. As educators we will respect and honor the diversity of all persons. Honoring each person’s culture, backgrounds and gender identities by providing an equitable and inclusive education.

• A safe, nurturing community: In a community, everyone belongs and feels valued by the others. In community, each feels secure and is supported in efforts to grow and thrive. in every way.  A safe community is created by respecting each other's diversity.  We strive as educators to ensure that all students feel valued, this will allow them to succeed in all classroom spaces. 

• Service to others and the community: Talents and abilities perfected through an education need to be used to make a better world for all. As educators we strive to do more than working as individuals, as the community is greater than the individuals working in them. 

General Job Description

The Dean of Students and Culture is a dynamic and visionary leader responsible for fostering a positive, inclusive, and thriving school culture. This individual will oversee student discipline, attendance, and parent engagement, ensuring that all students feel supported, valued, and empowered to succeed academically and socially. The Dean of Students and Culture will work collaboratively with staff, students, and families to create a safe, respectful, and joyful learning environment that aligns with the school’s mission and values. Additionally, this role will involve developing systems, including MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports), and leading professional development to support the school’s goals.

Key Responsibilities

1. Student Discipline and Behavior Management

• Develop, implement, and oversee a restorative and equitable discipline system that promotes accountability, growth, and positive behavior.

• Address and resolve student behavior issues in a fair, consistent, and culturally responsive manner.

• Collaborate with teachers and staff to proactively address classroom management challenges and support student success.

• Maintain accurate records of student behavior incidents, interventions, and outcomes.

2. School Culture and Climate

• Lead initiatives to build a strong, positive, and inclusive school culture that reflects the school’s mission and values.

• Organize and oversee school-wide events, traditions, and activities that promote community, belonging, and student engagement.

• Serve as a visible and approachable presence in the school, fostering relationships with students and modeling the school’s core values.

• Implement programs and practices that celebrate diversity, equity, and inclusion.

3. Attendance and Student Support

• Monitor and analyze student attendance data to identify trends and implement strategies to improve attendance and reduce chronic absenteeism.

• Work closely with students, families, and staff to address barriers to attendance and provide targeted support.

• Develop and implement incentive programs to encourage regular attendance and punctuality.

4. MTSS System Building

• Lead the development, implementation, and monitoring of the school’s Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework to address academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs of students.

• Collaborate with teachers, counselors, and support staff to design and deliver Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 interventions.

• Use data to identify student needs, monitor progress, and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions.

• Train and support staff in understanding and implementing MTSS practices, including data collection, progress monitoring, and intervention strategies.

5. Parent and Family Engagement

• Build strong partnerships with parents and families to support student success and strengthen the school community.

• Organize workshops, events, and meetings to engage families in their children’s education and the school’s culture.

• Serve as a liaison between parents and the school, addressing concerns and fostering open communication.

6. System Development

• Design and implement systems and protocols to streamline processes related to discipline, attendance, and school culture.

• Develop data-tracking tools and reporting mechanisms to monitor progress and inform decision-making.

• Continuously evaluate and refine systems to ensure they are effective, equitable, and aligned with the school’s goals.

7. Professional Development

• Lead professional development sessions for staff on topics such as restorative practices, trauma-informed care, cultural responsiveness, classroom management, and MTSS implementation.

• Provide coaching and support to teachers and staff in implementing best practices for behavior management, student engagement, and intervention strategies.

• Stay current on research and trends in school culture, discipline, attendance, and MTSS to inform professional development offerings.

8. Leadership and Collaboration

• Collaborate with school leadership, teachers, and staff to align discipline, culture, attendance, and MTSS practices with the school’s academic goals.

• Serve on the school’s leadership team, contributing to strategic planning and decision-making.

• Foster a collaborative and supportive environment among staff, students, and families.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATES WILL HAVE:

• A belief in and alignment with the Values of Value School

• Expertise in building a positive and collaborative adult culture;

• Field expertise

• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build and cultivate relationships with students and adults;

• Is committed to self reflection and a growth mindset while demonstrating humility and kindness in all interactions 

• Ability to develop and implement organizational systems and strategies 

• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written;

• Bilingual: Spanish and English 

Minimum Qualifications

1. Evidence of agreement with the five core values of Value Schools. 

2. Education: Bachelor’s degree in education, counseling, social work, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).

3. Experience: Minimum of 5 years of experience in education, with a focus on student support, behavior management, or school culture, and prior experience as a teacher or counselor.  Experience with MTSS implementation is highly desirable.

4. Training in 1-3 of the following is preferred: 

• MTSS 

• Socio-Emotional Learning 

• Trauma Informed Instruction 

• Support of Diverse Learners 

• Behavioral Interventions 

• Restorative Justice 

Skills

• Strong understanding of restorative practices, trauma-informed care, culturally responsive approaches, and MTSS frameworks.

• Excellent communication, conflict resolution, and relationship-building skills.

• Ability to analyze data and use it to drive decision-making and interventions.

• Demonstrated leadership and collaboration skills.

• Mindset: Passion for working with students, families, and staff to create an equitable and inclusive school environment.

Key Competencies

• Student-Centered: Prioritizes the well-being and success of all students.

• Cultural Competence: Demonstrates an understanding of and respect for diverse backgrounds and experiences.

• Proactive Leadership: Takes initiative to address challenges and implement solutions.

• Collaborative Spirit: Works effectively with staff, students, and families to achieve shared goals, including collaboration with the network office..

• Resilience and Adaptability: Thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic school environment.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.

• Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities.

Value Schools is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

RETIREMENT

CalSTRS/CalPERS

Value Schools employees who meet the qualifications will be enrolled in either CalSTRS (for certificated employees) or CalPERS (for classified employees).

These are considered a defined benefit retirement plan as pension payments are determined by a set formula and are payable for life. This contrasts with a defined contribution plan (like a 403(b)), in which benefits are determined not by a formula, but solely by the amount of contributions in an account, plus earnings.

403(b) and Roth 403(b) – This is a voluntary plan administered through the Third -Administrator (TPA) SchoolsFirst.

Summary of Benefits

Compensation - Value Schools provide competitive salaries, which are reviewed every three years. Based on relevant prior work experience and education, our salary range for this role is $91,000-$110,00.  

MEDICAL - Value Schools pays 100% of the premiums for EMPLOYEES, and a portion of the premium for dependents. Employees have the option of choosing between HMO plans offered by Kaiser and Anthem, a PPO plan offered by Anthem or an H.S.A plan offered by Anthem.

DENTAL – Value Schools pays 100% of the premiums for EMPLOYEES electing DHMO insurance through CalDental, and a portion of the premiums for EMPLOYEES who elect coverage through the Dental PPO or the Dental PPO Buy-Up plans offered (administered through Principal).

VISION – Value Schools pays 100% of the Anthem Vision premiums for EMPLOYEES, and a portion of the premiums for dependents.

Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) – Value Schools provides $25,000 life insurance to all full-time employees as well as AD&D insurance, both at no cost to the employee.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)- Provided through Anthem at no cost to all employees (and their family members). An EAP provides a confidential source that employees can use to find support and resources for certain challenges they face. This includes, but is not limited to, issues such as alcohol or substance misuse; child/elder care; relationship challenges; financial/legal issues; wellness matters and traumatic events. Services are offered via phone, video-based, online- chatting, email or face-to-face.

On average, Value Schools contributes $10,000 annually per employee for Health Benefits

Learn more about us

How our Schools do their Work

• Small school settings: Value Schools knows that strong, positive relationships are key to student success. That happens best in places "where everybody knows your name" and nobody slips through the cracks.

• Vibrant campus life: Value Schools students are encouraged to develop their interests in a wide variety of areas. Opportunities for enrichment, physical activity, leadership and service are provided on every Value Schools campus.

• Student-centered curriculum using research-based materials: A standards-based curriculum focuses on what students know, not what teachers teach. Student-focused learning ensures teachers provide learning activities and tasks suited to individual needs.

• Dedicated and enthusiastic parents: Our parents are an integral part of our campus life. Through their involvement, parents develop an extended community that enriches not only the life of the school, but the lives of families as well.

• Highly trained and committed educators: Professional collaboration is the key to improving our skills. Our educators are dedicated to working together to become exceptional at what they do everyday.

Our Values

• Academic excellence is the means to a full life: Academic success helps every person live a richer and fuller life.  As an educator  we will continue to grow professionally to better support our students and their academic success. 

• Each student can develop to his or her fullest potential: Everyone can learn, and even though not everyone's the same type of learner, as educators we will support them in growing to their fullest potential. 

• Each individual is unique and deserves respect:  Each individual is unique and deserves respect.  By respecting our differences we afford each other with the opportunity to pursue life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. These rights accord each with dignity that is to be respected by all. As educators we will respect and honor the diversity of all persons. Honoring each person’s culture, backgrounds and gender identities by providing an equitable and inclusive education.

• A safe, nurturing community: In a community, everyone belongs and feels valued by the others. In community, each feels secure and is supported in efforts to grow and thrive. in every way.  A safe community is created by respecting each other's diversity.  We strive as educators to ensure that all students feel valued, this will allow them to succeed in all classroom spaces. 

• Service to others and the community: Talents and abilities perfected through an education need to be used to make a better world for all. As educators we strive to do more than working as individuals, as the community is greater than the individuals working in them. 

What is a Charter School?

The specific goals and operating procedures for a charter school are detailed in the agreement (also referred to as the charter, petition, or charter petition) between the authorizing entity and the school’s organizers.  It is the intent of the California Legislature under state law that charter schools operate independently from the existing school district structure as a method to accomplish all of the following:

• Improve pupil learning.

• Increase learning opportunities for all pupils, with special emphasis on expanded learning experiences for pupils who are identified as academically low achieving.

• Encourage the use of different and innovative teaching methods.

• Create new professional opportunities for teachers, including the opportunity to be responsible for the learning program at the school site.

• Provide parents and pupils with expanded choices in the types of educational opportunities that are available within the public school system.

• Hold the schools established under this part accountable for meeting measurable pupil outcomes, and provide the schools with a method to change from rule-based to performance-based accountability systems.

• Provide vigorous competition within the public school system to stimulate continual improvements in all public schools.