Dean of Culture

The Dean of Culture and Climate plays a vital role in creating a safe, inclusive, and positive learning environment for all students and staff.  Working in partnership with the school leadership team and the Director of Culture and Climate, this position will  implement school-wide initiatives that foster positive behavior, social-emotional learning (SEL), and a strong school culture aligned with KIPP KC's values.

Key Responsibilities:

Climate and Culture Leadership:

• Design and implement a school-wide behavior management system (e.g., PBIS, Restorative Justice, or Merit/Demerit) that is consistent and equitable.
• Oversee the daily execution of culture and climate initiatives within the school, i.e Culture Playbook, Live School.
• Identify school-specific needs and opportunities for improvement in climate and culture, and collaborate with the principal and staff to develop and implement targeted strategies.
• Foster student leadership opportunities that promote positive school culture.
• Lead the school’s strategy to reduce chronic absenteeism through incentives and family outreach.

Social-Emotional Learning (SEL):

• Integrate SEL principles into the school curriculum and daily activities, ensuring all students develop the skills necessary for self-awareness, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.
• Collaborate with the Student Support Services team to ensure that all teachers have been trained and have access to the Character Strong SEL Curriculum.
• Collaborate with teachers and counselors to ensure that the SEL curriculum is  implemented and there is active student participation daily in all classrooms.

Behavior Intervention and Supports:

• Implement and oversee behavior management systems that are equitable and effective, promoting positive interventions and reducing suspensions and expulsions.
• Collaborate with ISS Coordinator and Wellness Lab Coordinator on restorative practices being implemented and executed in these spaces to reduce the number of out–of-school suspensions and expulsions.
• Manage high-level disciplinary issues and lead "re-entry" meetings after suspensions to ensure students are ready to return to the community.
• Ensure clear and consistent behavioral expectations are communicated and enforced throughout the school.
• Collaborate with the school social workers to support at-risk and in-crisis students.
• Partner with teachers to improve classroom management, helping them build strong relationships with "tough-to-reach" students.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Collaborate with teachers, staff, parents, and students to create a culture of shared responsibility and positive school climate.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for families regarding student conduct and school culture, fostering a "team" approach to student success.
• Develop strategies and programs to actively engage families in school activities and decision-making.

Data Analysis and Reporting:

• Collect and analyze data related to school climate, student behavior, and SEL implementation.
• Generate reports for the principal, school and regional leadership team on the effectiveness of climate and culture initiatives.
• Utilize data to identify areas for improvement and inform future strategies.

Professional Development:

• Collaborate with the principal and staff to identify professional development needs related to positive classroom environments, SEL strategies, and positive behavior support.
• Assist in planning and coordinating professional development opportunities to equip staff with the skills and knowledge to foster a positive school environment.