2025-2026 Lower Elementary School Associate Dean of Students

The Associate Dean of Students at Coney Island Preparatory Public Charter School is responsible for promoting a positive student culture, managing behavior plans, and collaborating with educators and families. By focusing on trauma-informed practices, the ADoS works to ensure student success, organizes school-wide events, and supports teachers in maintaining effective classrooms. This dynamic role combines leadership in student discipline with a commitment to community building.

To qualify for the Associate Dean of Students position at Coney Island Preparatory Public Charter School, candidates should possess a Bachelor's degree at minimum, with a Master's degree preferred. Experience in a lead teaching role and knowledge of trauma-informed practices are highly desired, in addition to proven communication, organizational skills, and a positive attitude. Familiarity with systems like Schoolrunner or Google Sheets can be helpful, but is not required.

Coney Island Preparatory Public Charter School prefers candidates for the Associate Dean of Students role who have lead teaching experience, particularly in charter schools, as this provides vital insight into school culture and classroom management. Candidates with a background in trauma-informed education practices will also be highly regarded, as these skills are crucial for supporting our diverse student body.

The Associate Dean of Students at Coney Island Prep provides vital support to teachers by offering coaching on implementing behavior improvement plans, conducting classroom observations, and facilitating professional development sessions focused on trauma-informed practices. By being proactive in addressing and managing classroom behaviors, the ADoS ensures that teachers can maximize instructional time and create a conducive learning environment.

The starting salary for the Associate Dean of Students position at Coney Island Preparatory Public Charter School is set at $80,000, reflective of the skills and experiences relevant to this vital role. Beyond competitive pay, the school offers comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, vision insurance, and a 403(b) retirement plan with matching contributions.

In a lower elementary setting, a Dean of Students plays a critical role in fostering a positive school culture, promoting behavior management, and ensuring that every child's educational experience is joyful and academically focused. An effective ADoS should emphasize collaboration with staff and families to create a supportive environment, which you can highlight through personal anecdotes of previous experiences.

When discussing your experience with trauma-informed practices, emphasize specific strategies you’ve used to understand and respond to students’ needs. Discuss your approach to creating an inclusive environment and how you engage families in the process, reflecting Coney Island Prep's values and mission.

To foster positive relationships with students, I focus on building trust and open lines of communication. I believe in actively listening to their concerns and involving them in problem-solving. Share examples of specific activities or approaches you've implemented to engage with students effectively.

For conflict resolution among students, I apply restorative practices, encouraging empathy and understanding while guiding students to communicate openly about their feelings. I would provide examples of how you've facilitated discussions that lead to resolution and foster long-term understanding.

Involving families in behavior management means actively engaging them in discussions about strategies and support systems. I would ensure regular communication via meetings, phone calls, or workshops, and offer resources that empower families to continue this work at home.

Professional development is crucial in keeping staff informed of best practices and strategies for student success. I am passionate about facilitating sessions that focus on trauma-informed approaches, differentiation in teaching, and how to best support diverse learners in our school environment.

In handling teacher conflicts, I prioritize open dialogue and encourage both parties to express their viewpoints. I listen actively and work as a mediator to ensure a collaborative resolution that aligns with the school's mission and enhances the educational environment.

To improve school culture, I would initiate programs that celebrate student achievements, organize community-building events, and engage students in leadership opportunities. Sharing specific initiatives you've implemented in the past can showcase your creativity and commitment to enhancing school culture.

Equity and inclusion are essential in education as they ensure that all students, regardless of their background, have access to the support and opportunities they need to thrive. Discuss how you've promoted inclusivity in previous roles and why it matters to you personally.

Integrating technology into the Associate Dean of Students role involves using data management systems to track student behavior and progress efficiently. It can also mean employing communication platforms to enhance parent engagement and utilizing educational technology to support teachers in the classroom.