The Harvard-Westlake School is seeking qualified applicants for the position of full-time Upper School Dean commencing July 1, 2020.

Harvard-Westlake, a coed, independent school in Los Angeles serving nearly 1600 students in grades 7-12, seeks to hire an exceptional and highly-qualified educator to join the team in its Upper School Deans’ Office. The school enrolls approximately 875 students on the Upper School campus, more than 40% of whom are students of color.  

Harvard-Westlake employs a holistic approach to serving the needs of its Upper School students as well as the mutually supportive skills of an entire team of deans.  The office includes nine deans and two office coordinators; each dean is responsible for the academic, college, and personal counseling needs of approximately 35 sophomores, 35 juniors, and 35 seniors.  Upper School Deans guide students and their parents, advising them on issues of course selection, study skills, appropriate community behavior, discipline, and ultimately, all of the elements of the college search and selection process.  Deans are also responsible for maintaining effective relationships with parents, faculty and staff, and college admission professionals.  Upper School Deans write letters of recommendation, speak publicly in both small and large venues, and participate in the school community and culture.  They also continually look for ways to develop professionally.

The ideal candidate will be an experienced college counselor and/or college admission professional whose knowledge of colleges is broad (preferably a minimum four years of experience).  The candidate should have a style in working with families that is transparent, communicative, and candid yet tactful regarding expectations.  They should understand how to work effectively and engage proactively with involved parents who have high expectations. The candidate should demonstrate an interest in and eagerness for collaboration with various teams (e.g., fellow Deans, the counseling staff, Dean of Students, and other staff and administrators). They should also be prepared to integrate themselves in the life of the school.

Harvard-Westlake actively strives to be a diverse and inclusive community in its educational, admission, and employment practices.  We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, disability, or any other characteristic.  We seek candidates who demonstrate sensitivity, knowledge, and understanding of the diverse backgrounds of community members; have an ability to work flexibly, independently, and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment with individuals from a diverse set of backgrounds; and have a capacity to serve as a model of openness, generosity, and acceptance.