Job Description

Job Description

Job Description

Founded in 1961, Sandy Spring Friends School is a progressive, coed, academically rigorous day and boarding school serving students from age three through 12th grade. The campus is located on 140 acres in the historic Sandy Spring area of Montgomery County, Maryland, and the School is approved by the Maryland State Board of Education and accredited by the Association of Independent Maryland Schools.

Our school’s culture, rooted in the idea that collaboration engenders achievement, can be traced to our Quaker heritage and abiding belief in the Quaker values of simplicity, equality, integrity, stewardship of the environment, and peaceful resolution of conflict.

Summary: The Dean of Middle School (6th-8th grade) will support the Head of Middle School in the day-to-day operations of the division, focusing on student discipline, behavioral management, and the holistic development of students in alignment with Quaker values. We are seeking a passionate and experienced individual who is deeply committed to working with middle schoolers. The ideal candidate will thrive in the dynamic and ever-changing environment of middle school, embracing the unique qualities, quirks, and enthusiasm of this age group. No two days are the same, and we are looking for someone who embraces the unpredictability and excitement of middle school life while promoting the academic, social, and emotional growth of students in alignment with the school’s mission and values.

Responsibilities:

• Oversee and manage student behavior and disciplinary issues in the middle school, ensuring a fair and consistent approach grounded in Quaker principles of restorative justice.

• Collaborate with faculty to address behavioral concerns and provide appropriate interventions to help students learn from their actions and make positive changes.

• Serve as a resource to faculty on classroom management strategies and support the development of a positive school culture.

• Work with the Head of Middle School, teachers, counselors, and other support staff to develop and implement strategies that meet the needs of all students.

• Assist in the coordination of student interventions, such as academic or behavioral plans, and monitor their progress.

• Collaborate with teachers, staff, and parents to ensure a cohesive and unified approach to student support and development.

• Assist in organizing and leading school-wide and grade-level events, assemblies, and other community-building initiatives.

• Maintain open, honest, and respectful communication with parents and guardians to build strong relationships and a sense of community.

• Communicate regularly with the Head of Middle School to provide updates on student behavior, academic concerns, and other matters of importance.

• Supervise students during non-instructional times, such as recess, lunch, and field trips.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in related area required, Master’s degree preferred.

• A minimum of 3-5 years of experience in middle school education or administration, with a focus on student discipline and student support.

• A strong understanding of Quaker values, and a commitment to integrating these values into all aspects of school life.

• Experience in conflict resolution, restorative justice practices, and behavioral management.

• Excellent communication skills (oral and written),, with the ability to effectively engage students, families, and faculty.

• A collaborative, inclusive leadership style, with a commitment to fostering a positive school culture.

• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities.

Physical Requirements: Daily desk work includes significant amounts of telephone and computer time as well as mobility around the entire campus. This includes frequent walking inside and outside, and maneuvering stairs as a part of daily routines. Bending and squatting as required to participate in activities; lifting/carrying boxes up to 25 pounds; and the ability to maneuver as necessary within a regular classroom and office setting.

Please note that the School has a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy, which requires that all employees be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and provide proof of vaccination.

Salary: $65,000 - $75,000

Summary of Benefits

At SSFS, we offer a competitive benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and professional growth. Our benefits include:

• Comprehensive Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage to keep you and your family healthy.

• Disability & Life Insurance: Short-term and long-term disability coverage, along with life insurance, for peace of mind at no cost to employees.

• Retirement Savings: 403(B) plan with employer contributions to help you save for the future.

• Paid Time Off: Generous paid time off, including holidays and parental leave.

• Employee Assistance: Access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for personal and professional support.

• Tuition: Financial aid available to children of SSFS employees.

• Childcare Discounts: Discounted After Care and Summer Camp programs for employees' children.

• Convenience Perks: Free parking, free lunch, and access to our library and gym facilities.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for growth through tuition reimbursement, wellness programs, and ongoing professional development initiatives.

• Campus Amenities: Work in a beautiful, historic campus with walking paths. We are a smoke-free, environmentally conscious community.

Commitment to Diversity: Sandy Spring Friends School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or a person's status as a qualified candidate with a disability in administration of its educational program, admission policies, financial aid program, staff hiring, and other school-administered programs.

Please submit a cover letter, resume, completed application, and three professional references by selecting the link.

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