About This Role
Serving as the primary advocate for students and managing all student-related matters is the core of this role within an independent school. The Dean of Students is a member of the administrative team, collaborating with the Head of School, Assistant Head of School, and faculty to shape a student experience that meets the unique needs of the students.
Responsibilities
- Embrace the mission, philosophy, and culture of the school
- Demonstrate visible, active leadership in the daily life of the school, including during arrival, passing periods, dismissal, lunch, recess, and break times
- Demonstrate alignment with the school’s core purpose, values, and strategic priorities
- Work collaboratively as part of the administration team to support students, parents, and faculty
- Establish high standards and expectations for all students for academic performance and responsibility for behavior
- Instruct students in appropriate behavior; discipline students in accordance with established guidelines
- Address student problems in cooperation with the Head of School, Assistant Head of School, and faculty, as well as any relevant outside agencies
- Communicate regularly with parents, seeking their support and advice, to create a cooperative relationship to support the child in school, particularly when issues arise
- Maintain accurate records regarding all communication
- Participate in administrative meetings and keep administration informed regarding student discipline and student activities
- Collaborate with administrative staff to create and update the school discipline plan
- Act as a resource for teachers and staff who express concerns for student attendance, student development, and/or discipline
- Monitor and organize attendance functions; prepare letters, call parents, and attend meetings as needed, regarding absent or tardy students; provide leadership for attendance improvement efforts
- Provide direction to a variety of faculty, staff, and student programs and services; participate in formal and informal classroom visitations and observations; provide recommendations and suggestions for improvement as appropriate
- Work with the Head of School and Assistant Head of School to establish a safe and secure learning environment for students
- Develop plans for emergency situations in collaboration with other administrators, staff, and public safety agencies; direct the work of lunch/recess duty staff; plan and debrief emergency drills; update the school safety plan
- Review and update student and employee handbooks yearly
- Attend student events to demonstrate genuine interest in the life of the students
- Resolve student behavior concerns in a fair and timely manner
- Ensure the safety and health of all students, notifying the administration of any unsafe conditions, following established procedures
