Dean of Students

Summary
We are seeking a dynamic and dedicated individual to join Chatham Middle School as the Dean of Students. This full-time position is pivotal in fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all students. The Dean of Students will be responsible for overseeing student affairs, promoting student engagement, fostering positive behavioral supports, and enhancing the overall student experience. This role requires a strong commitment to student development, advocacy, and collaboration with faculty, administration, students and families.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement programs and services that enhance student engagement, retention, and success.
• Serve as a primary advocate for students, addressing their needs and concerns effectively and empathetically.
• Oversee student conduct processes, ensuring fair and consistent application of policies and the CMS Code of Conduct.
• Complete Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB) investigations in accordance with NJ Law and the NJ Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights.
• Promote and maintain a safe, respectful, and inclusive school environment for all students.
• Lead initiatives that strengthen school culture, including SEL programs, character education, and restorative practices.
• Work collaboratively with staff and administration to reinforce consistent school-wide expectations and positive behavior systems (e.g., PBIS, MTSS-B).
• Support crisis prevention and intervention efforts in accordance with district and state guidelines.
• Implement and monitor discipline policies aligned with NJ state laws, district regulations, and the student code of conduct.
• Conduct investigations of student incidents and maintain accurate and timely records and reports.
• Facilitate restorative conferences, mediations, and interventions to resolve conflicts and repair relationships.
• Monitor student attendance, tardiness, and chronic absenteeism; implement interventions aligned with NJ DOE guidance.
• Oversee attendance-related communication and participate in truancy or attendance action meetings when necessary.
• Collaborate with families, counselors, CST members, and community agencies to support students’ academic, social, and emotional needs.
• Participate in I&RS/MTSS meetings to help plan and track student interventions.
• Support students returning from suspensions, hospitalizations, or alternative placements through reentry meetings and transition plans.
• Communicate regularly and professionally with families regarding student expectations, progress, and concerns.
• Build strong relationships with community organizations, police resource officers, and support agencies that contribute to school safety and student success.
• Organize and facilitate workshops, seminars, orientation programs, parent events, and schoolwide activities that promote engagement and leadership.
• Supervise hallways, cafeterias, arrival/dismissal, assemblies, and other unstructured times to ensure student safety.
• Contribute to the development and revision of school policies, procedures, and handbooks.
• Assist the principal and administrative team with building management, safety drills, and emergency response procedures.
• Participate in staff meetings, professional development, and evaluation processes as required.
• Analyze behavior, attendance, and climate data to identify trends and inform interventions and action plans.
• Ensure compliance with all reporting obligations, including HIB investigations, suspension data, and state-mandated submissions.
• Provide leadership and supervision to student affairs staff, ensuring professional growth and effective team dynamics.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Superintendent or designee or required by law, regulation, or board policy.

Requirements

• Valid New Jersey Principal Certificate or eligibility.
• Master’s degree in higher education administration, student affairs, educational leadership, or a related field.
• Minimum experience as determined by the Board; minimum of five years of experience in student affairs, school leadership, or a related educational role preferred.
• Demonstrated leadership capability and strong understanding of student development theories and best practices.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse student populations and collaborate with staff, families, and community partners.
• Proven leadership and management abilities, including experience supervising staff and managing programs.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential situations with professionalism and discretion.
• Required criminal history background check and proof of U.S. citizenship or legal resident alien status.
• Physical and Mantoux Test (per district requirements).
• Knowledge of legal and regulatory issues related to student affairs, including Title IX, the HIB Law, and NJ school discipline regulations.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Proficiency in using technology and data analysis tools to enhance student services and programs.

Salary Range: $130,000 - $140,000 (commensurate with years of experience and degree level)

Benefits Include:

• Health, Prescription, and Dental insurance
• Participation in the New Jersey State Pension System (TPAF)
• Paid Time Off (Personal, Sick, Family Illness and Bereavement)
• Professional Development Opportunities
• Tuition Reimbursement (subject to eligibility and availability)

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: The School District of the Chathams provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Pay Transparency Notice: In accordance with the New Jersey Pay Transparency Act, the compensation and benefits information provided above reflects a good faith estimate for the position. Final compensation may be influenced by factors including, but not limited to, the candidate’s experience, education, and alignment with the needs of the district.

The use of Duo Mobile on a personal device is a requirement of employment at the School District of the Chathams.