Middle School Dean of Students (Interim)

La Jolla Country Day School is seeking a dynamic, student-centered, and mission-aligned Interim Middle School Dean of Students to serve as a key member of the Middle School leadership team for the 2026-2027 academic year. This individual plays a critical role in fostering an inclusive, supportive, and respectful school culture while advancing initiatives that strengthen student engagement, leadership development, and community belonging across grades 5-8.

Serving approximately 325 students, the Dean of Students oversees student life and activities, supports student wellbeing and accountability through restorative practices, and partners closely with students, faculty, parents, and administrators to cultivate a positive and enriching Middle School experience. This highly relational role requires a visible, approachable, and collaborative leader who is passionate about adolescent development and committed to building a thriving school community grounded in integrity, empathy, and mutual respect.

The Interim Dean of Students will help shape programs and systems that support student success, morale, and belonging while contributing to the overall health and culture of the Middle School. The ideal candidate brings strong leadership experience, excellent communication skills, emotional intelligence, and a deep understanding of the developmental needs of middle school students.

Why Join La Jolla Country Day School?

La Jolla Country Day School is a vibrant, inclusive learning community dedicated to developing individuals who are intellectually curious, emotionally resilient, and ethically grounded. The Middle School years are foundational in shaping identity, confidence, leadership, and belonging, and this role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on students during a transformative stage of development.

At LJCDS, we believe strong relationships are at the heart of student growth. We value collaboration, empathy, innovation, and a commitment to fostering a community where every student feels known, supported, and empowered to thrive. If you are energized by working closely with adolescents, building community, supporting students and families, and contributing to a culture of belonging and accountability, we encourage you to apply.

What You ll Do

Student Life & Community Engagement Oversee the day-to-day student experience within the Middle School, fostering a positive, inclusive, and engaging campus environment

Organize and support student clubs, affinity groups, and alliance organizations, with an emphasis on amplifying student voice and developing leadership skills

Advise and meet weekly with members of the Torrey Leadership Council (TLC) in grades 5-8 to cultivate leadership growth, collaboration, and community involvement

Collaborate with the Head and Assistant Head of Middle School to plan and facilitate community-time assemblies, guest speakers, and student programming

Support program leaders as a chaperone for one or more outdoor education programs

Student Support & Restorative Practices Partner with faculty, staff, and families to address student behavioral and disciplinary matters while supporting teachers in the development and implementation of behavior plans grounded in restorative practices

Guide students through restorative processes following behavioral missteps using a clear, tiered system of support and accountability

Manage and facilitate the Ethics Council process, as appropriate

Co-lead the Middle School Student Success Team in partnership with the Director of the Learning Resource Center to support student wellbeing, growth, and achievement

Collaborate with the Wellness team on Health and Wellness curriculum and planning

Monitor attendance and tardiness trends and collaborate with the administrative team to address concerns proactively

Who You Are

Mission-Aligned Leader: You embody and promote the values of integrity, inclusion, empathy, and belonging.

Student-Centered Educator: You build authentic relationships with middle school students and create environments where students feel safe, respected, and supported.

Collaborative Partner: You work effectively with faculty, families, administrators, and staff to support student success and strengthen community culture.

Restorative Practitioner: You approach student discipline and accountability through relationship-building, reflection, and growth-oriented practices.

Visible Community Member: You are actively engaged in daily campus life and contribute positively to the energy and spirit of the Middle School.

Growth-Oriented Professional: You demonstrate adaptability, resilience, sound judgment, and a commitment to continuous learning.

Empathetic Communicator: You listen actively, communicate clearly, and engage thoughtfully with diverse perspectives and experiences.

Qualifications

Bachelor s degree required; advanced degree in education, counseling, leadership, or a related field preferred

Minimum of 3-5 years of experience working with middle school students in an educational or student-life setting; academic leadership experience preferred

Deep understanding of adolescent development, middle school culture, and student social-emotional needs

Demonstrated commitment to fostering an inclusive, equitable, and culturally responsive school community

Experience designing and implementing student leadership, advisory, or community-building programs

Knowledge of restorative practices, student discipline processes, and conflict resolution strategies

Strong interpersonal, organizational, and collaborative leadership skills

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Ability to manage multiple priorities, exercise sound judgment, and maintain confidentiality

Experience facilitating conversations and programming related to equity, inclusion, and belonging

Proficiency with Google Workspace and Microsoft Office

Professional Skills High emotional intelligence and professionalism

Strong relationship-building and conflict-resolution abilities

Excellent organizational and multitasking skills

Ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced school environment

Strong analytical thinking and decision-making abilities

Collaborative mindset with a proactive, solutions-oriented approach

Commitment to fostering belonging across diverse constituencies

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

Full-time, in-person, campus-based role

Work occurs primarily in office, classroom, and student-life settings

Regular sitting, standing, walking, bending, and reaching required throughout the workday

Ability to occasionally lift up to 30 lbs

Ability to work at a desk and computer screen for extended periods

Ability to move independently throughout the campus

Moderate noise levels with occasional louder environments during assemblies, dances, and school events

All school personnel must successfully complete a fingerprint background check through Live Scan and provide current tuberculosis clearance.

Salary Range This is an interim position for the 2026-2027 academic year.

$95,000-$126,000 annualized. The salary offer to a successful candidate will depend on factors including experience, education, training, and relevant skills.

To be considered, please submit:

A current resume or CV

A cover letter describing your interest in joining the LJCDS community and your relevant experience

We value authenticity in the application process and ask that candidates refrain from using AI tools to generate their cover letter and other application materials.