Assistant Dean of Students

About the Role

The Assistant Dean of Students provides vital leadership to foster a school culture that aligns with PLA’s core values: respect, determination, children first, gratitude, and continuous improvement. This role is responsible for implementing strategies and programs that motivate and inspire students to excel as scholars, including developing student character and ensuring a positive, structured environment conducive to learning.

Responsibilities

• Provides training and leadership for staff and scholars with PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) initiatives
• Collaborates with the PBIS Committee for effective implementation of PBIS initiatives
• Provides leadership and assists administration in monitoring accountability of scholars' behavior
• Leads communication and ensures fidelity of school-wide established routines and procedures
• Assists teachers with de-escalation strategies and PBIS tactics in the classroom
• Demonstrates a high level of support and enthusiasm for PLA initiatives and culture/climate efforts

Requirements

• A passion for working with students and families in under-served communities
• Active teachers’ license, counselors’ license, or MSW
• Minimum 3 years of teaching or related experience in counseling or social work
• Successful experience working with a diverse population of scholars and faculty
• High level of detail orientation and sound organizational skills
• Strong communication, feedback, and facilitation skills
• Strong interest and willingness to serve in a strategic leadership role

About the Network

PLA is a transformative education nonprofit changing communities across the country by providing resources not found in the traditional education model. In addition to serving as one of the country’s best turnaround school operators and successfully launching charter school start-ups, PLA offers:

• A successful, research-based summer learning program (Summer Advantage)
• A successful Reading and Math Intervention program (Reading and Math Advantage)
• A workforce development program (PLA University) that provides expanded opportunities for high school graduates, as well as family members of current staff and students

This menu of programs and services provides expanded opportunities for staff through career advancement and additional income opportunities.

About the Campus

Discovery Creative Pathways (DCP) Harper Woods is a tuition-free charter school supporting K-8 scholars in the Harper Woods, MI area. Through a rigorous curriculum and high-quality instruction, educators foster a love for learning. DCP Harper Woods embraces innovative teaching methods and technologies to enhance the learning experience and prepare students for future challenges.

The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including:

• Girls/Boys Basketball
• Soccer
• Dance
• Martial Arts
• Drama Club
• Cheerleading
• Garden Club
• Tutoring

DCP Harper Woods prides itself on working closely with support staff, educators, and families to create a sense of joy and belonging for all scholars.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation aligned to the market
• Healthcare, vision, and dental insurance
• Monthly professional development opportunities, including participation in the annual Leader Institute
• Opportunities to collaborate and brainstorm with other School Leaders in the network
• Incentive and bonus opportunities