What are the responsibilities and job description for the Student Culture Coordinator | Des Moines Prep position at Des Moines Prep?
About Des Moines Prep
Des Moines Prep is a new growing public charter school in downtown Des Moines committed to achieving exceptional outcomes for students: where they own and drive their learning and love their school experience. Our model combines rigorous college preparatory academics and a robust student-centered approach to instruction. We believe students learn best when they are known well, challenged deeply, and supported fully.
Des Moines Prep opened in 2025 and serves grades 8–9, expanding to serve grades 7–12 in the coming years. Our school emphasizes agency, purpose, and preparation for the future, giving students opportunities to explore college and career pathways and pursue their ambitions in a supportive, close-knit environment.
About the Role: Student Culture Coordinator
The Student Culture Coordinator plays a vital role in ensuring our school is a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment where students and staff can thrive. This position blends proactive safety planning with relationship-driven culture work, supporting positive student behavior, strong school routines, and a sense of belonging across the campus. The Coordinator works closely with school leadership, staff, students, and families to promote a calm, joyful, and well-run learning environment.
Essential Duties And Responsibilities
School Safety & Operations
Start date will be August 1, 2026 and the schedule will follow an academic calendar.
Non-Discrimination Statement
Opportunity Education is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace where all individuals are valued and respected.
Des Moines Prep is a new growing public charter school in downtown Des Moines committed to achieving exceptional outcomes for students: where they own and drive their learning and love their school experience. Our model combines rigorous college preparatory academics and a robust student-centered approach to instruction. We believe students learn best when they are known well, challenged deeply, and supported fully.
Des Moines Prep opened in 2025 and serves grades 8–9, expanding to serve grades 7–12 in the coming years. Our school emphasizes agency, purpose, and preparation for the future, giving students opportunities to explore college and career pathways and pursue their ambitions in a supportive, close-knit environment.
About the Role: Student Culture Coordinator
The Student Culture Coordinator plays a vital role in ensuring our school is a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment where students and staff can thrive. This position blends proactive safety planning with relationship-driven culture work, supporting positive student behavior, strong school routines, and a sense of belonging across the campus. The Coordinator works closely with school leadership, staff, students, and families to promote a calm, joyful, and well-run learning environment.
Essential Duties And Responsibilities
School Safety & Operations
- Support daily campus safety procedures, including arrival, dismissal, transitions, and common spaces
- Monitor school facilities and routines to ensure a secure and orderly environment
- Assist with emergency preparedness, drills, and safety protocols in collaboration with school leadership
- Serve as a point of contact for safety-related concerns and support timely follow-up
- Maintain accurate incident documentation and support required reporting processes
- Help build and reinforce positive school culture rooted in clear expectations, consistency, and care
- Support students with behavior regulation during transitions, unstructured time, and throughout the school day
- Collaborate with teachers and school leaders on behavior interventions and restorative responses
- Model calm, respectful, and proactive interactions with students at all times
- Support implementation of school-wide behavior systems and incentives
- Build strong, trusting relationships with students to promote safety, accountability, and belonging
- Serve as a visible, approachable adult throughout the school day
- Partner with families and staff to support student success and well-being
- Communicate student needs, trends, and successes with relevant team members
- Work closely with school leadership, operations, and student support teams
- Participate in professional development related to school safety, student behavior, and culture
- Reflect on practices and contribute ideas to improve systems, routines, and student experiences
- 5 years of experience in education, youth development, or school leadership with a strong track record of student impact
- Experience implementing behavior management systems and positive school culture initiatives
- Background in working with families, students, and staff to create inclusive and supportive environments
- Experience designing and facilitating student leadership and engagement programs
- Deep belief in all students’ potential and a commitment to holding high academic and behavioral expectations
- A growth mindset, constantly seeking to refine and improve instructional practice
- Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues
- Adaptability and excitement about being part of a founding team at a new school
- Readiness to go above and beyond, including putting in extra time in and outside of your role, to build Des Moines’ premier college prep school
- Retirement Plan: Enrollment in the Iowa Public Employees’ Retirement System (IPERS)
- Competitive Salary: Salary is budgeted within a range that aligns with local district expectations
- Professional Development: Access to exceptional weekly coaching with our dedicated Dean of Culture
- Wellness & Workspace Amenities: Suite of sustainability and wellness supports, including a teacher’s lounge with a massage chair, cold brew on tap for all staff, and ample private workspaces for focused planning
- State-of-the-Art Facility: Work in a newly renovated and meticulously maintained school building designed to foster a calm, inspiring, and innovative environment
Start date will be August 1, 2026 and the schedule will follow an academic calendar.
Non-Discrimination Statement
Opportunity Education is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace where all individuals are valued and respected.