Dean of Student Life

Roles and Responsibilities:

This position is vital to creating a supportive and nurturing environment at The Colorado Springs School. The ideal candidate will be a compassionate leader dedicated to fostering the holistic development and well-being of all students. The Dean of Student Life (for grades 4-12) will be crucial in promoting a positive, inclusive, and supportive school environment, focusing on students' behavioral, social-emotional, and non-academic needs. To develop a cohesive school community, they will work with the Lower & Middle School and Upper School Division Directors to have consistent and effective policies, procedures, and philosophies.

The position’s preferred qualifications:

• Master's degree in School Administration, Leadership, or a similar field

• Minimum of five years of experience in student affairs, counseling, or related roles in K-12 education

• Proven track record of developing and implementing successful student support programs

• Experience in conflict resolution, crisis management, and restorative justice practices

Knowledge, skills, and abilities:

• Deep understanding of child and adolescent development across 4-12 grade age ranges

• Ability to connect with students of diverse backgrounds and build trusting relationships

• Skill in developing and managing comprehensive student life programs

• Ability to lead and inspire a team of counselors, advisors, and support staff

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interacting with students, parents, and staff

• Strong, active listening and empathy skills to address sensitive student issues effectively

• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion principles

• Ability to navigate and address complex social and cultural dynamics within the school community

• Capacity to handle emergencies calmly and effectively

• Knowledge of best practices in student safety and mental health support

• Proficiency in using student information systems and data analysis tools to track and report on student well-being metrics

• Ability to leverage technology for student engagement and support initiatives

The Dean of Student Life will:

• Act as a primary point of contact for students facing personal, social, or behavioral challenges

• Develop and implement proactive strategies to support student well-being and personal growth

• Coordinate with counselors, teachers, and families to address individual student needs

• Oversee and refine the school's disciplinary policies and procedures, emphasizing restorative practices

• Handle student disciplinary issues with a focus on learning, growth, and positive behavior modification

• Maintain accurate records of student behavioral incidents and interventions

• Collaborate with Division Heads and the School Counselor to help lead the implementation of school-wide SEL initiatives and programs

• Collaborate with Division Heads and the School Counselor to provide resources and support for teachers to integrate SEL into daily interactions with students

• Collaborate with Division Heads and the School Counselor to organize workshops and activities that promote emotional intelligence, resilience, and conflict-resolution skills

• Collaborate with Division Heads to spearhead initiatives that foster a sense of belonging, respect, and inclusivity among the student body

• Collaborate with Division Heads to coordinate school-wide events, assemblies, and traditions that celebrate diversity and build community

• Collaborate with Division Heads to develop and oversee student leadership programs and extracurricular activities

• Serve as a liaison between the school and families for non-academic student concerns

• Organize parent education events on topics related to child development, mental health, and social issues

• Facilitate communication between families and the school regarding student well-being and behavioral matters

• Attend all faculty meetings, department meetings, and other meetings as required

• Be able to collaborate effectively and facilitate the development of a positive school culture that supports learning and personal growth

• Promote the development of character, community, and curiosity in all dealings with students, including enforcing school rules

• Be involved in the school community at large and participate in and contribute to a Community of Belonging in formal or informal ways

• Adhere to the standards described in the Employee Handbook

• Perform various student supervisory duties