What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lower School Dean of Students position at The Leffell School?
Lower School Dean of Students
To Begin August 2026
The Leffell School is a cutting-edge K–12 Jewish independent school serving more than 850 students on two campuses in Westchester County, NY, 30 minutes north of New York City. We are seeking a Lower School Dean of Students for the 2026-2027 school year.
Position Overview:
The Leffell Lower School is seeking a Dean to serve as a cornerstone of our Lower School community. This role is perfect for a relational leader who thrives on supporting teachers, partnering with families, and ensuring every student feels seen, supported, and successful.
Responsibilities:
Oversee the implementation of school-wide student behaviour expectations, ensuring a balance of positive reinforcement and developmentally appropriate consequences.
Work closely with the Social Emotional Learning (SEL) team to determine when elevated support or specialized interventions are required.
Partner with leadership and the SEL team to implement both proactive and reactive behavior management systems utilizing the Responsive Classroom framework.
Serve as the primary point person for real-time classroom management support, providing immediate assistance to teachers.
Mentor Lower School faculty in refining their classroom management techniques and fostering inclusive environments.
Collaborate on initiatives that foster a joyful, safe, and respectful school-wide culture.
Maintain compassionate, consistent, and proactive communication with families, acting as a bridge between home and school.
Serve as the point person for bus- and after-school-related behavioral concerns.
Qualifications:
Master’s degree in Special Education, School Leadership, School Psychology/Counseling, Social Work, or a related field.
At least 5 years of experience in an elementary education setting, with a track record of leadership in school-wide and student behavior systems.
Deep knowledge of proactive interventions and the Responsive Classroom approach (training preferred).
Exceptional ability to collaborate with diverse teams, from teachers to SEL specialists, to school leadership, and to build high-trust relationships with families.
Strong executive functioning skills with the ability to manage complex follow-ups and logistics with precision.
Why Join The Leffell School?
As part of The Leffell School community, you will join a collaborative and supportive environment committed to academic excellence and character development. Our faculty members work together to create meaningful educational experiences that meet the needs of all learners while fostering a caring and inclusive school culture.
Compensation and Benefits:
Pay Rate: $75,000-$95,000
Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, FSA, Long-term and Short-term disability Insurance, Accident and Critical Illness Insurance, 403b
https://www.leffellschool.org/
Salary : $75,000 - $95,000