Kimberton Waldorf School

Education That Matters

Dean of School

by

Kimberton Waldorf School is seeking a Dean of School for the 2021-22 school year. This is a full-time position and will begin on July 1st, 2021. 

OVERVIEW

Kimberton Waldorf School (KWS) offers a developmentally appropriate, experiential approach to education. With more than 200 students enrolled, we integrate the arts and academics from preschool through twelfth grade, seeking to inspire a lifelong love of learning. KWS uses a collaborative governance structure which includes a Board of Trustees, Dean of School, Governing Team (GT), and Core Teams for the Upper and Lower schools. The Dean reports to the Board and is mandated by the Trustees, faculty, and staff to carry the management and visionary leadership of the school. The Dean serves on and is supported by the GT which is responsible for the management of the school as a whole and oversees the Core Teams, which are responsible for management of their sections of the school.

MAJOR AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

  • Oversee, coordinate, and finalize decisions in all matters concerning the day-to-day operational, administrative, and pedagogical life of the school 
  • Uphold the mission of KWS and lead implementation of plans to strengthen the school for future generations of students
  • Lead the school with respect for each individual and a focus on equity and active incorporation of every area of the school
  • Communicate effectively and frequently with faculty, staff, students, parents, alumni, and community partners and address concerns or issues that come to the Dean or school administration
  • Provide support for and regular evaluation of staff department heads, including: Facilities, Food for Thought lunch program, Business office, Enrollment, and Development as well as oversee that the GT and Core Teams are handling performance reviews of teaching staff
  • Serve as the liaison to the Board by attending monthly Board meetings, informing the Board on the operation of the school, and representing the Board to the faculty and staff 
  • Coordinate the annual preparation of the class schedule and teaching assignments
  • Work with the business office and the Finance Committee of the Board for budget preparation, compliance, salary planning, and implementation
  • Consult with the Board Chair on legal issues facing the school and engage GT members and attorneys as needed
  • Collaborate with the Board and GT on strategic planning initiatives and lead regular accreditation renewal efforts
  • Ensure that policies and procedures are maintained and revised as needed in line with the mission of the school
  • Connect with other Waldorf schools and peer private schools on issues of enrollment, finances, and Human Resource practices as well as maintain membership in professional organizations
  • Interface with community members as necessary, including the farm and community-supported agriculture (CSA) managers across the street from the school, county health department, and media outlets

Qualifications and Key Attributes:

  • Demonstrated administrative and/or management skills 
  • Leadership, mentoring, and mediation experience
  • Strong organizational skills
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work collaboratively
  • Understanding of the pedagogy at KWS and Waldorf schools
  • Willingness and ability to hold others accountable and navigate confrontation
  • Bachelor’s degree or higher preferred

KWS is an equal opportunity employer. Please submit a cover letter, resume, and three references no later than March 25, 2021 to Board Chair Bill Wiedmann at bwiedmann@kimberton.org.