Position Overview:
The Lower School Dean will serve as a key leader in both the academic and operational success of the school. Reporting directly to the Executive Director, this role is responsible for supporting instructional excellence, overseeing scholar achievement, and managing day-to-day operations that ensure a safe, productive, and mission-aligned learning environment. The ideal candidate is a dynamic, organized, and instructional leader who thrives in both strategic planning and hands-on execution.Key Responsibilities:Academic LeadershipAssist in launching and refining the academic program to align with the school’s mission and performance goals.Coach and develop instructional staff through regular observation, feedback, and professional development.Collaborate with the instructional team on curriculum design and instructional practices, particularly in literacy and data-driven instruction.Lead the implementation of the school’s social-emotional learning and discipline programs.Analyze scholar academic performance data to drive instructional improvement.Monitor lesson planning, assessments, and scholar academic progress to ensure alignment with state standards and school goals.Oversee compliance for special populations (including special education and 504) in collaboration with the Special Education Coordinator.Direct and coordinate school-wide assessments and ensure fidelity in assessment administration (e.g., iReady, SC Ready).Support scholar attendance, academic, and behavioral interventions.Instructional Staff ManagementAssist with recruiting, hiring, and onboarding instructional staff who embody the school’s mission and values.Conduct regular staff meetings, one-on-one check-ins, and performance evaluations.Provide leadership for professional development sessions and instructional planning meetings.Collaborate with staff on classroom management techniques and scholar engagement strategies.Foster a positive and supportive staff culture and monitor school morale.Operational LeadershipOversee daily school operations, including food service, transportation, technology, facilities, and safety procedures.Supervise the operations team and part-time support staff, ensuring high-quality performance and accountability.Serve as the main point of contact for HR-related issues and support staff onboarding and compliance.Lead logistics for school-wide and off-site events (e.g., orientations, family nights, recruitment fairs).Manage school-wide operational systems and ensure fidelity of implementation across all teams.Serve as the school’s expert on data and student information systemsFiscal & Compliance ManagementManage the school’s purchasing, inventory, and vendor relationships.Support the Executive Director in budget development, financial reporting, and audit preparation.Ensure adherence to internal controls, fiscal policies, and all local, state, and federal compliance requirements.
Assist in reporting to the Board of Directors and external stakeholders.Scholar Enrollment & Family EngagementLead scholar recruitment and enrollment processes to ensure full enrollment each academic year.Manage student registration and transitions (entry/exit) and maintain accurate records.Support family engagement efforts by enhancing classroom-home communication and participating in school events.