Middle School Dean of Students

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Middle School Dean of Students is a key leadership position focused on supporting the social, emotional, and academic development of students in grades 6–8. The Dean works closely with administration, students, teachers, and parents to create a positive school climate, maintain discipline, and promote a culture of respect and inclusivity. This role involves both proactive and reactive measures to ensure that students are thriving in a safe, respectful, and structured learning environment, with a strong emphasis on restorative practices as a cornerstone of behavior management and conflict resolution.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Act as the primary point of contact for student concerns, behavior issues, and social-emotional well-being.
• Administer the school’s discipline policies using restorative practices, focusing on repairing harm, rebuilding relationships, and teaching accountability rather than punitive measures alone.Lead initiatives to build a positive school climate and culture, emphasizing inclusivity, respect, and responsibility through restorative practices and PBIS programming.
• Collaborate with teachers, administrators, student service team members and other school staff to identify and address academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs of students.
• Respond to and manage student crises, including conflicts, mental health concerns, and emergency situations, integrating restorative principles where possible to de-escalate and resolve tensions.
• Assist the principal and other school leaders with the development and implementation of school policies, procedures, and strategic initiatives, with a focus on integrating ECS values, restorative practices, and student accountability into the broader school culture

EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE 

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Psychology, Social Work, or related field
• At least 3-5 years of experience in a middle school setting, with a focus on student support, counseling, or school administration.
• Strong understanding of adolescent development, social-emotional learning, restorative practices, and best practices in student behavior management.
• Certification or training in restorative practices (or willingness to obtain certification within the first year) is highly preferred.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships with students, parents, and faculty.
• Ability to remain calm and effective in stressful or crisis situations.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive school environment.

DESIRABLE ATTRIBUTES

• Previous experience in a leadership or supervisory role within a middle school.
• Ability to design and implement programs that promote student engagement and positive behavior through restorative practices.
• A collaborative mindset with a strong focus on teamwork and community-building
• Passion for working with middle school students and helping them grow both academically and personally, with an emphasis on repairing harm and strengthening relationships.

COMPENSATION and BENEFITS

• Minimum starting salary of $70,607 with consideration given for prior years' relevant experience
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, short-, and long-term disability insurance, generous paid time off, and participation in a generous 403b retirement plan.

TO APPLY
Submit a cover letter and resume to: https://ecspgh.org/careers/. Priority consideration for applications received by Monday, January 6th. 

Clearances current within one year of hire date will be required and include Arrest and Conviction disclosure, Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance (Act 151), Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record Clearance  (Act 34), and FBI Criminal Background Check (Act 114).  Commonwealth of PA Sexual Misconduct/Abuse Disclosure. Release (Act 168) also will be required.

ECS is an equal opportunity employer