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Dean of School Culture

2605 School St. Rockford, IL 61101

Dean of School Culture, K-4 or 5-8

Who are we looking for?

Galapagos is looking for driven educators who truly believe in the ability of all children to succeed at the highest levels.  Our staff works incredibly hard to deliver rigorous, individualized, data-driven and explicit instruction to our scholars. 

Our leaders spend a significant amount of time observing classrooms, coaching instructors, and providing professional development to staff.  We are looking for people who value growth, not perfection- but are always striving to be the absolute best. 

We are specifically looking for individuals with a track record of success working with students in grades K-4 or 5-8.  This position will support instructors through coaching, professional development, and general administrative tasks.   This position will also support the Dean of Instruction in developing strong academics in the classroom.  Transitioning teachers and new administrators are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities:

  • Create and ensure a culture in which academic achievement is the overarching goal 
  • Provide coaching, mentoring and support for instructional staff
  • Develop relevant professional development programming 
  • Assist the Dean of Instruction in overseeing the day-to-day school operations
  • Analyze data in order to drive school wide improvement
  • Provide classroom management support for all instructional staff
  • Manage all disciplinary matters with an emphasis on identifying underlying causes with the goal of providing strategies to reduce non-instructional interruption
  • Oversee non-instructional programming, after school programs, and field studies

Qualifications 

•         Drive to stay focused on scholar achievement and growth even when it is difficult
•         Grit to be solution-focused and keep going until the desired results are achieved
•         Growth mindset to see failures and setbacks as challenges to learn from and overcome
•         Evidence of self-motivation and willingness to be a team player
•         Bachelor's degree is required
•         A minimum of five years experience in education, preferably in an urban, charter environment 
•         Experience creating and delivering professional development tailored to specific identified needs 
•         Experience coaching instructors in the areas of classroom management with the end result being increased student achievement 
•         Ability to analyze and discern information from data in order to develop effective strategies 
•         Ability to communicate effectively in within a multi-cultural setting 
•         Strong MS Office skills
•         Belief in and alignment with Galapagos' core beliefs and educational philosophy is non-negotiable.
 
Compensation
Starting salary offers are based on relevant experience, potential for growth, and overall fit.  Staff are eligible for medical and dental benefits, life insurance, flex spending plans, and paid vacation time.  Certified staff members also receive matching contributions to the teacher pension fund.  All staff members are equipped with the tools needed to succeed, including intensive coaching and professional development, a laptop computer, e-mail, high-speed internet access, and all necessary supplies.

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