Position Overview: The William G. Morgan Elementary School is seeking an innovative, goal-oriented, and student-centered leader for the Dean of Students role. This position is ideal for a leader passionate about student achievement, problem-solving, and advancing a positive school culture. The Dean will collaborate with the Principal and Assistant Principal to build a dedicated, high-performing team, striving to deliver exceptional education and support in alignment with the district’s turnaround plan and the school’s mission and vision.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Building a Collaborative and Positive School Culture:
- Establish and maintain high expectations for all students, especially for traditionally underserved populations, including students with disabilities, English Learners, and those from low socio-economic backgrounds.
- Support teachers in maintaining consistent behavioral expectations aligned with the Core Actions: Be Respectful, Be Responsible, and Be Safe.
- Act as a resource for teachers on classroom management, discipline, and building positive relationships with students.
- Oversee student supervision during arrival, lunch, recess, dismissal, and other transitions to uphold a respectful, safe, and professional school culture.
2. Fostering Student Development and Positive Behavior:
- Cultivate strong relationships with students to encourage positive behaviors and provide targeted support to those needing additional guidance.
- Organize PBIS events, pep rallies, community service projects, and incentives to foster a positive school culture.
- Implement and support Restorative Justice practices in collaboration with the Student Support Team, aiding in conflict resolution and behavioral support.
- Serve as the primary discipline authority, supporting teachers in managing classroom disruptions and assigning appropriate interventions when necessary.
3. Managing a Safe and Supportive Learning Environment:
- Lead the development and implementation of a multi-tiered support system for students’ social-emotional and academic needs.
- Design and execute systems that support teaching and learning, contributing to a structured, safe, and engaging school environment.
- Collaborate with the Family and Community Engagement team to monitor attendance rates, implement strategies to boost attendance, and provide targeted outreach.
- Track and analyze behavior data to address school-wide trends and lead initiatives that address identified challenges.
4. Engaging Families and Building Community Partnerships:
- Establish strong relationships with parents and community members, recognizing their role as key partners in school improvement efforts.
- Demonstrate cultural sensitivity and an understanding of the unique needs of students and families, especially those of Puerto Rican descent and other diverse backgrounds.
- Actively participate in parent meetings, community outreach, and engage with local organizations to foster supportive partnerships and resources for students and families.
Candidate Profile:
Experience and Skills:
- Strong managerial and leadership skills with proven experience in coaching and driving teams toward ambitious goals.
- Exceptional interpersonal abilities, fostering consensus and collaboration with staff, families, and community partners.
- Outstanding communication skills to guide, inspire, and inform diverse stakeholders.
- Background in an urban educational setting, with experience as an educator and/or teacher leader.
Beliefs and Traits:
- Commitment to high expectations for all students, particularly those in traditionally underserved groups, with an unwavering belief in each student’s potential.
- A bold, innovative change agent with the ability to inspire, motivate, and create a positive school culture.
Educational and Certification Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree in Education or a related field preferred.
- Current or in-process certification as a teacher, counselor, director, or principal in Massachusetts.
- Preferred: Bilingual in English and Spanish and cultural competence in working with Puerto Rican communities.
Compensation and Benefits: This 210-day position offers competitive salary and benefits, commensurate with experience.