Primary Function: Dean of Students & Student Life and Strategic Thought Partner 

Reports to: Director of Upper School

Tentative State Date of : July 1, 2026

Position Purpose

The Associate Director of Upper School serves as a critical member of the divisional leadership team, acting as the primary administrator for student life and a strategic thought partner to the Director of Upper School. This role is responsible for fostering a positive, inclusive school culture, overseeing student conduct and well-being, and collaborating on long-term divisional strategy and reorganization initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership & Partnership: Serve as the primary "thought partner" to the Director of Upper School in managing divisional operations in alignment with school mission and values and in accordance with research-backed best practices. 
• Dean of Students Functions: Supervise Grade Level Deans in their daily work of communicating community norms and implementing restorative practices while leading the overall student discipline program.
• Student Life & Culture: Direct all facets of the student experience, including Student Government, Clubs, student leadership development, community-building events such as retreats and assemblies, and student discipline, in partnership with Grade Level Deans.
• Student Support Coordination: Collaborate with the learning specialist, Psychologist, and faculty to identify and support students facing academic or social-emotional challenges.
• Administrative Management: Assist in scheduling and new student onboarding 

• Education: A Master’s degree in Education, School Leadership, or an academic discipline.
• Experience: Significant, progressive experience in independent school teaching or administration, specifically with grades 9–12.  
• Strategic Competency: Demonstrated ability to serve as a high-level strategic thought partner, contributing to divisional reorganization, long-term planning, and operational excellence.  
• Student-Centered Leadership: Proven track record in fostering a positive school culture, a commitment to relational approaches to conflict resolution and community building, and a deep understanding of adolescent development, and enforcing student discipline policies. 
• Communication & Presence: Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to maintain confidentiality and serve as a visible, accessible leader for students, faculty, and families. Vested interest in seeing high school students thrive.

About Laurel School

Connections working at Laurel School