Student Life Secretary | Des Moines Prep

Student Life Secretary | Des Moines Prep 

About Des Moines Prep

Des Moines Prep is a new growing public charter school in downtown Des Moines committed to achieving exceptional outcomes for students: where they own and drive their learning and love their school experience. Our model combines rigorous college preparatory academics and a robust student-centered approach to instruction. We believe students learn best when they are known well, challenged deeply, and supported fully.

About the Role: Student Life Secretary
The Student Life Secretary will play a vital role in supporting students, families, and staff by ensuring smooth daily operations in the main office and throughout the school building. This individual will be responsible for managing student attendance, facilitating communication with families, supporting school administrators, and assisting with student services such as meal distribution and medical needs. The Student Life Secretary will report to the administrative team and be expected to operate in a highly mobile and dynamic role, assisting wherever needed to maintain an efficient and student-centered environment.

Responsibilities
As a dynamic and growing organization, responsibilities may evolve; however, core areas of focus include:

Attendance & Family Communication (40%)

• Monitor and document student attendance, ensuring compliance with school policies.
• Proactively communicate with families regarding absences, tardies, and attendance concerns.
• Conduct home visits as needed to support student attendance and engagement.
• Assist in tracking and analyzing attendance data to identify trends and inform interventions.

Student Services & Office Support (35%)

• Assist Deans and Principals with documentation related to student behavior, attendance, and administrative needs.
• Support student movement throughout the building by tracking down students, monitoring exits, and responding to student needs.
• Administer medications as needed (training and certification provided).
• Schedule IEP meetings and assist with necessary documentation.

Meal Coordination & Compliance (15%)

• Oversee the ordering, organizing, and serving of catered breakfast and lunch options.
• Ensure compliance with USDA guidelines and Free and Reduced Lunch application processing.
• Maintain records and paperwork related to meal service and purchase orders.

Schoolwide Operations & Support (10%)

• Maintain an organized and welcoming front office environment.
• Support staff and students with various administrative needs as they arise.
• Collaborate with the administrative team to ensure a positive and well-run school environment.

Ideal Candidate Experiences

• Experience in a school or customer service environment.
• Strong organizational and communication skills with attention to detail.
• Experience working with families and students, particularly in a high school setting.
• Familiarity with student information systems or administrative databases is a plus.
• Ability to multitask and thrive in a fast-paced school environment.

Ideal Candidate Traits

• Commitment to Des Moines Prep’s mission of excellence and joy for students, staff, and families.
• A proactive and problem-solving mindset, willing to take initiative and adapt to evolving needs.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with students, families, and staff.
• High level of professionalism, confidentiality, and reliability.
• Willingness to move around the building and assist in various capacities beyond the office setting.

Compensation
This position starts at $20 per hour. It  is eligible for IPERS (Iowa Public Employees’ Retirement System) as well as standard health insurance benefits.

Statement of Non-Discrimination
Opportunity Education is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace where all individuals are valued and respected.