Dean of Students

A High School Academic Dean of Students focuses on enhancing student life, managing student behavior, and supporting academic success, typically reporting to the principal. They often lead discipline initiatives, implement restorative practices, support student advocacy, and mediate conflicts while fostering a positive, safe, and inclusive school culture. 

Key Responsibilities & Duties

• Student Behavior & Culture: Develops and enforces student conduct codes, manages discipline through restorative practices, and oversees school-wide behavior systems (e.g., PBIS).
• Academic Support & Counseling: Monitors student academic progress, supports grade-level teams, and provides interventions for academic difficulties.
• Student Life & Activities: Coordinates co-curricular and extracurricular programs, such as student leadership, orientation, and school events.
• Community Engagement: Acts as a liaison between families, staff, and administration, including handling parent conferences regarding student behavior.
• School Leadership: Collaborates with administrators to implement school-wide policies, safety procedures, and staff development. 

Common Requirements

• Education: Bachelor's degree in education or related field (master's preferred).
• Certification: Administrative or teaching certification frequently required, depending on the district.
• Experience: Previous high school teaching or counseling experience with demonstrated leadership skills. 

Differences in Roles
While some schools define the Dean of Students purely by student discipline and culture, others involve them in teacher coaching, evaluation, or specific academic interventions.