Dean of Secondary - Upper School
Houston, TX, United States
At Awty, we believe that students learn best and faculty perform best in a culture of vibrant diversity. Diversity is an essential quality of our school environment; our commitment to learning and the pursuit of excellence can occur only in such a context. It helps us guide our students to become responsible world citizens. Our commitment to learning about and respecting one another’s diversity brings distinct richness to the Awty experience for students, alumni, employees, and parents.
Position Summary: The Secondary Dean plays a central role in shaping a positive experience for secondary students at Awty. This leader will cultivate a welcoming school environment, oversee student discipline, and provide guidance through a network of advisors and teacher leaders. They will champion academic programs, support experiential learning initiatives, and manage a vibrant co-curricular activities program. Additionally, the Secondary Dean will be a visible presence at school events, fostering student engagement and building strong relationships with parents and the broader school community.
The position reports to the Head of Secondary, serves as a member of the Secondary Administrative Team, and coordinates with the Proviseur about French Program integration and student support.
Required Experience:
Bachelor’s Degree
Successful experience working with secondary students
Minimum of 5 years of school leadership experience with students and/or faculty
Preferred Experience: Experience in an IB and/or International School setting
Excellent communication, collaboration and interpersonal skills
Prior training in effective student discipline strategies and/or Student Mental Health & First-Aid
Fluent in English and one of the school’s principal languages (Spanish or French)
Key Qualities: Responsiveness -- able to handle a high volume of e-mail and telephone traffic
Flexibility – able to adapt to changing conditions, such as pandemics, climate emergencies, and the like
Student - Centered – able to facilitate the increasing development of student voice and participation in Secondary
Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Mindset – demonstrable track record of moving forward initiatives in this area
Communication – able to communicate in an effective and engaging manner. Desired tone is caring and clear
Curiosity – interest in people and the world and committed to constantly learning and improving
Responsibilities: Create a positive, inclusive and challenging student environment
Build a clear, consistent and secure disciplinary frame
Lead the team of Grade-Level deans, who in turn, lead the Advisors, to create a network of adult advocates for our students
Create a plan to deliver the yearly Advisory Priorities, as well as adapt to emergent situations or needs
Support the Experiential Education program, especially Fall Trips and Awty Connects Week
Schedule, communicate and supervise Assemblies and Special Events
Organize and supervise a thorough program of clubs and activities
Be an active presence at secondary school events -- Athletics, Arts, and Co-Curriculars
Serve as a positive and effective parent liaison
Supporting design and implementation of social-emotional initiatives that lead to positive school climate, along with secondary counselors
Support crisis management by co-developing and implementing protocols for responding to student emergencies, crises, or critical incidents
Serve as a member of the Secondary Administrative Team
TO APPLY: Submit your application through the school's website . All applicants should include a cover letter, current résumé and three professional references (including your most recent direct supervisor).
Direct inquiries to Tom Oden, Head of Secondary, [email protected].
The Awty International School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, ethnic or religious beliefs, disability, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship, and athletic and other school-administered programs or in its employment practices. We actively seek diversity among faculty and administration as well as among students.
The position is a one-year renewable contract, with competitive salary and conditions. Applications should be submitted as soon as possible.
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