Dean of Culture

MISSION

The mission of The PATH School is to provide a purpose-driven, culturally responsive learning environment that challenges scholars academically while supporting their social and emotional growth in order to develop conscientious citizens who transform their communities.

VISION FOR POSITION

At The PATH School (TPS), we seek candidates who are committed to our vision, mission and core beliefs. TPS staff members are passionate about serving urban scholars. They have the utmost respect for their scholars and their families, and are absolutely committed to their scholars’ academic and personal development and success. TPS staff members believe deeply in the importance of the social and emotional development of young people and are committed to demonstrating that belief daily. They are excited about teaching and learning and are continually working to improve their ability to do both. Our staff members truly care about using every moment of every day to help our scholars grow, both personally and academically. They are able to bring their lessons and materials to life, engaging their scholars and demanding the highest results. TPS staff members are supportive, thoughtful, creative, relentless, and unbelievably motivated. They work together, learn from each other, and do whatever it takes, day in and day out, to make sure their scholars succeed.

Why do we exist?

We exist in order to empower our scholars to use their talents to achieve at high levels in order

to live purpose-filled lives driven by their hearts.

What do we believe?

• We believe all scholars can learn and thrive given the necessary supports to do so.

• We believe curricular choices and instruction must be rigorous, relevant, representative and engaging.

• We believe culturally responsive pedagogy leads to scholar success.

• We believe relationships and a strong community of trust are the cornerstones of safe, effective schools.

• We believe purpose-driven learning must undergird our curriculum and instructional practices.

• We believe consistently examining data, both academic and social/emotional, is a key lever that leads to school and scholar success.

• We believe when guided toward future paths that are purposeful, rewarding and meaningful, scholars persist to overcome obstacles and find true success.

• We believe authentic experiences prepare scholars to think beyond their current situation to begin thinking about the possibilities that lie ahead.

The Dean of Culture is responsible for fostering a safe, structured, and supportive learning environment by leading scholar discipline, behavior management, and culture-building initiatives. This role partners closely with scholars, families, teachers, and administrators to ensure high expectations for behavior while supporting scholars’ social-emotional growth and accountability. The Dean of Culture plays a key role in modeling the values and expectations of The PATH School and ensuring scholars are prepared to learn and thrive.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree in education, counseling, school leadership, or a related field preferred

• Experience working with scholars in primary (grades K-3), upper elementary and/or middle school (grades 4–8)

• Strong background in scholar discipline, behavior management, or school leadership

• Knowledge of restorative practices, trauma-informed approaches, or PBIS preferred

• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and conflict-resolution skills

• Ability to remain calm, fair, and consistent in high-pressure situations

• Strong work ethic

• Cooperation and exudes professionalism in the workplace

• Punctuality, ability to adhere to deadlines

• A deep passion for social justice and equity for all children; a strong belief that all scholars can and will achieve at the highest levels regardless of demography

• Alignment with vision, mission, and goals of The PATH School

Key Responsibilities

Student Discipline & Behavior Support

• Implement and consistently enforce the school’s behavior and discipline policies for grades 4–8

• Address scholar behavior concerns using restorative, developmentally appropriate practices

• Investigate incidents and determine appropriate consequences while maintaining fairness and dignity

• Track, document, and analyze behavior data to identify trends and guide interventions

• Develop behavior improvement plans for individual scholars as needed
  
  

School Culture & Climate

• Promote a positive, respectful, and inclusive school culture aligned with The PATH School’s mission

• Serve as a visible presence during arrival, dismissal, lunch, transitions, and school events

• Reinforce school-wide expectations and norms through proactive communication and modeling

• Support character development, accountability, and scholar leadership
  
  

Collaboration & Communication

• Partner with teachers to support classroom management and consistent behavior expectations

• Communicate regularly with families regarding behavior concerns, progress, and interventions

• Collaborate with counselors, special education staff, and administrators to support scholar needs

• Participate in scholar support meetings and contribute to holistic solutions
  
  

Student Support & Development

• Build strong, trusting relationships with scholars in grades 4–8

• Coach scholars through conflict resolution, reflection, and problem-solving

• Support social-emotional learning initiatives and scholar well-being

• Assist with supervision of scholars during school hours and activities
  
  

Compliance & Operations

• Maintain accurate records related to discipline, referrals, and interventions

• Ensure all disciplinary practices align with school policies and applicable regulations

• Assist with emergency procedures and safety planning as needed

Core Competencies

• Student-centered mindset with high expectations

• Strong relationship-building skills

• Data-informed decision making

• Cultural competence and commitment to equity

• Professionalism, discretion, and integrity
  
  

Work Environment

• Full-time, school-based position

• Includes active supervision and movement throughout the building

• Occasional evening or after-school commitments for events or family meetings

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in an environment with an above average level of noise

• Some nights and weekends, as required