What are the responsibilities and job description for the High School Dean of Culture (2025-2026 School Year) position at Utopian Academy for the Arts?
Job Title: High School Dean of Culture (2025-2026 School Year)
About Utopian Academy for the Arts
Utopian Academy for the Arts is the 2023 Georgia Charter School of the Year! The mission of Utopian Academy for the Arts is to develop, through a structured and supportive environment, academic and artistic students to enter and to succeed in the global society with proficiency to enroll in a college, university, or specialty school of their choice. Utopian Academy for the Arts is the only public charter school network in Georgia to offer a comprehensive educational program in the dramatic, media, and creative arts. Our educational model leverages the positive effects of arts education to engage and inspire students, develop their academic and artistic potential, and prepare them to be leaders in their communities.
The Utopian Academy for the Arts was founded in 2013 as the first state-approved charter school by the State Charter Schools Commission of Georgia, to expand public school choice options for families that reside in Clayton County, GA. Recognizing its unique approach and access to arts-based education, the Clayton County Public Schools System subsequently approved the vertical expansion to add the Utopian Academy for the Arts Elementary (est. 2020) and Utopian Academy for the Arts High School (est. 2022). In 2023, the charter school network launched its second state-approved middle school, Utopian Academy for the Arts-Trilith, which features a state-wide attendance zone in Fayette County, GA.
The Role
The Dean of Culture at Utopian Academy for the Arts High School plays a pivotal role in fostering a positive and inclusive school culture that supports the academic, social, and emotional growth of students. This leadership position is responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing programs and initiatives that promote a safe, respectful, and nurturing learning environment. At Utopian Academy for the Arts High School, we believe that students will rise to meet the high expectations set by our team of educators. This position reports to the High School Principal and will be assigned to be physically present in the school.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement strategies to create a positive and inclusive school culture that aligns with the values and mission of the charter school.
- Prepare regular reports for school leadership on culture-related metrics and trends.
- Foster a sense of belonging and community among students, staff, and families.
- Design and implement a comprehensive behavior management system that focuses on restorative practices, positive reinforcement, and character development.
- Work collaboratively with teachers, staff, and parents to address and resolve behavioral issues in a fair and consistent manner.
- Develop and oversee SEL programs to support the emotional well-being of students.
- Collaborate with teachers to integrate SEL practices into the curriculum and daily school routines.
- Collaborate with parents, guardians, and community members to build a strong support network for students.
- Organize and participate in community events that promote a sense of unity and shared responsibility for student success.
- Provide training and support for teachers and staff on fostering a positive and inclusive classroom environment.
- Stay current on best practices in school culture and share relevant information with the school community.
- Act as a mediator in resolving conflicts among students, staff, and parents.
- Implement conflict resolution strategies that promote understanding and cooperation.
- Utilize data to assess the effectiveness of culture-related initiatives and make data-driven decisions for continuous improvement.
- Perform other duties as assigned by an appropriate administrator or their representative.
Qualifications:
CERTIFICATION:
- Educational Leadership - Tier I certification at Level 5 or higher required or Ed Leadership - Tier II
EDUCATION
- Master's Degree required
WORK EXPERIENCE
- Previous experience in a leadership role within an educational setting, preferably in a charter school.
- Strong understanding of restorative practices, positive behavior interventions, and social-emotional learning.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Demonstrated communication skills- Model correct use of language, oral and written;
- Demonstrated willingness to be held accountable for students’ results.
- Ability to work with diverse high school children.
- Ability to be flexible and to work in a pleasant and cooperative manner
- Ability to work effectively as a team member;
- Possess a high degree of professionalism and discretion;
- Knowledge of school safety & security procedures
- Excellent writing and communication skills
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
HOW TO APPLY:
Professional resume (with dates associated with your roles) and a cover letter (see below) should be submitted electronically via really. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
- Cover letter/letter of interest defining your strengths, including your experience with supporting a charter school, or arts integrated school. Please cite specific and measurable examples that make you a fit for our Dean of Culture position.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $50,000.00 - $90,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Salary : $50,000 - $90,000