Dean of Students

Catholic Diocese of Grand Rapids Schools•Grand Rapids, MI

21h•Onsite

About The Position

St. Paul the Apostle is seeking a Dean of Students to join its vibrant staff and school community. The Dean of Students is a mission-driven leader who works to ensure that all students, academically, behaviorally, and spiritually, can thrive in a Christ-centered learning environment. This position integrates the traditional role of Dean of Students with leadership of the school’s student support and special education services, ensuring that every child is known, valued, and supported according to their individual needs and the Gospel values of dignity and respect. This position partners with teachers, parents, and the leadership team to promote a positive school culture, oversee student behavior and discipline, coordinate intervention plans and accommodations, and ensure compliance with state and diocesan policies related to student services.

Requirements

The candidate should be a vibrant Catholic and uphold the teachings of the Catholic Church.
Bachelor’s degree required in education or a related field.
Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in education or related field
Deep understanding of child development, differentiated instruction, and behavioral intervention strategies- MTSS
Demonstrated ability to lead with empathy, consistency, and professionalism
Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills
Must complete VIRTUS training, background check, and fingerprints
Must adhere to all federal, state, local, diocesan, and school policies

Nice To Haves

Special education, educational leadership, or social work preferred

Responsibilities

Model and promote the Catholic mission and values of the school
Support the spiritual development of students through participation in liturgies, prayer, retreats, and service opportunities
Lead efforts to maintain a positive, respectful school climate grounded in Gospel values.
Develop and implement restorative and formative approaches to discipline that promote accountability, empathy, and reconciliation.
Manage student conduct and behavioral concerns, ensuring consistent application of school policies and procedures.
Communicate clearly and compassionately with students, parents, and teachers regarding behavioral expectations and interventions.
Support teachers in classroom management and conflict resolution.
Oversee all aspects of student support services, including academic interventions, accommodations, and behavioral supports
Coordinate the identification, evaluation, and ongoing support of students with diverse learning needs
In collaboration with our Student Support Specialist, develop, implement, and monitor Accommodation Agreements and student support goals.
In collaboration with our Student Support Specialist, lead Child-Study meetings
Serve on the school leadership team, contributing to strategic planning, policy development, and community-building initiatives.
Support and coach teachers on best practices with student support and implementation of MTSS
Support the supervision of student activities, arrival/dismissal, lunch, and recess.
Coordinate with teachers, counselors, and parents to promote positive student engagement and accountability.
Assist with new student orientation, peer mentoring programs, and leadership formation initiatives.
Assist in emergency preparedness and safety procedures, including drills, supervision plans, and incident reporting.