Dean of Students

Position Overview

The Dean of Students serves under the leadership of the Head of School and is responsible for fostering a positive, structured, and supportive student experience across all aspects of student life. This pivotal role oversees the comprehensive residential life program, leads the full execution of the new Post Graduate (PG) program, and manages student success, discipline, and holistic development for elite student-athletes. The Dean collaborates closely with academic, athletic, and mindset development staff to ensure a well-rounded and high-performance environment.

The ideal candidate is a student-centered leader with a deep understanding of the unique demands on student-athletes, capable of building systems that promote personal growth, accountability, and a thriving community.

SPIRE Academy is an elite sports and education organization dedicated to developing student-athletes through the integration of academics, athletic performance, mindset development, and life skills. SPIRE operates a large, multi-building campus and is a fast-paced, sports-oriented training and events facility serving student-athletes, families, coaches, faculty, staff, athletes, teams, and guests.

Key Responsibilities

1. Student Life & Residential Program Management

• Manage and enhance the Academy's comprehensive residential life program, ensuring a safe, structured, and supportive living environment.
• Develop, implement, and enforce student policies and procedures that promote well-being, personal responsibility, and community standards.
• Oversee residential staff, providing leadership, training, and ongoing support.
• Facilitate positive community building and conflict resolution within the residential setting.

2. Post Graduate (PG) Program Leadership

• Lead the full execution, development, and continuous improvement of the new Post Graduate (PG) program for 5th-year student-athletes.
• Design and implement specialized programming, support services, and academic pathways tailored to the unique needs of PG students.
• Ensure seamless integration of PG students into the Academy's academic, athletic, and social ecosystem.

3. Student Success & Discipline

• Oversee student conduct, implementing fair, consistent, and restorative disciplinary processes.
• Develop and manage student support systems to promote academic achievement, personal growth, and social responsibility.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for student and parent concerns related to student life and well-being.
• Monitor student progress and intervene proactively to address challenges and celebrate successes.

4. Student Advising & Mentorship

• Provide comprehensive advising and mentorship to student-athletes, guiding them in personal development, leadership skills, and responsible decision-making.
• Collaborate with coaches, academic advisors, and mindset development staff to ensure a holistic and well-rounded student experience.
• Foster an environment that encourages student leadership and engagement in Academy life.

5. College & Post-Secondary Preparedness

• Support college counseling efforts, particularly for PG students and those navigating post-secondary transitions.
• Track NCAA eligibility requirements and provide expert guidance to student-athletes and families.
• Develop and deliver NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) training and education, ensuring compliance and responsible decision-making.

6. Admissions Support & Community Engagement

• Assist the Admissions team in recruiting and onboarding prospective students, effectively articulating the student life experience at SPIRE Academy.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and high-performance school culture that aligns with SPIRE Academy's mission and values.
• Build strong relationships with students, families, faculty, coaches, and external partners.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Master's degree required in Education, Counseling, Student Affairs, Educational Leadership, or a related field is perferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive leadership experience in student affairs, residential life, or a similar role, preferably in an independent school or athletic academy setting.
• Demonstrated experience working with student-athletes or in high-performance environments.
• Strong understanding of student development theory, adolescent psychology, and best practices in student discipline and support.
• Knowledge of NCAA eligibility rules, college admissions processes, and NIL regulations preferred.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to build rapport with diverse stakeholders.
• Proven ability to lead, mentor, and collaborate effectively within a dynamic team environment.
• Commitment to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends, as required by student activities and residential life demands.

Reporting Structure
Reports To: Head of School
Collaborates With: Academic Staff, Athletic Leadership, Coaches, Mindset Development Staff, Admissions Team, College Counseling

SPIRE Leadership Philosophy
At SPIRE Academy, we believe academic excellence and elite athletic performance are not competing priorities. We are building a future-ready learning environment where students are challenged, supported, known, and prepared for success beyond graduation.

We seek leaders who are innovative, relational, adaptable, and deeply committed to helping students grow as learners, leaders, competitors, and people.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package (details available upon inquiry).
• Paid time off.
• Employee discount.
• Work Location: In person.