IntroductionHammond has been the proud leader of independent education in Columbia, South Carolina for 57 years. Serving 1,000 students in grades PK-12, Hammond offers a challenging college preparatory curriculum supplemented by robust artistic, athletic, and service-learning components. Hammond's signature offerings include a school-wide global studies program focusing on a select country each year, Early Technology Week, an innovative natural history program directed by the school's naturalist-in-residence, and a Public Policy program for upper school students. Hammond is dedicated to furthering its commitment to best practices in the utilization of technology and its applicability to successful and creative teaching and learning. Broadly respected for the breadth and depth of its academic program and its success in preparing students for college and beyond, Hammond is well positioned as one of the premier independent schools in the Southeast. While the school has grown over the years, of particular note and pride within the school community is the strong sense of family that is pervasive across all constituencies. This is a close-knit community of dedicated faculty, students, parents, grandparents, and alumni who are committed to the success of the students and of the school.Hammond is located in Columbia, the capital city and the heart of a thriving metropolitan area, boasting a nationally recognized zoo, one of the largest art museums in the area, an award-winning public library, a widely recognized children's museum, and the University of South Carolina. Columbia's prime location is in close proximity to the mountains and the coast and other large metropolitan areas such as Charlotte and Atlanta.Hammond at a GlanceHammond's mission is to instill in students a commitment to academic excellence and recognition of individual potential that will contribute to the development of their characters.Founded: 1966 Campus: 110 acres Enrollment: 1015 students (PK-12), co-educational day school College Acceptance: 100% Faculty/Staff: 165 school-wide Accreditation: Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS) Membership: National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS); Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS); Palmetto Association of Independent Schools (PAIS); South Carolina Independent School Association (SCISA)Hammond's emphasis on forward-thinking extends from the faculty to the student body. Beginning in the earliest grades, curricular and co-curricular programs are crafted to help prepare students for future grades, each level building on the former. Programs unique to Hammond differentiate the educational experience from other schools.Job DescriptionPosition: Middle and Upper School Dean of StudentsReporting: This position reports to the Heads of Middle and Upper SchoolSalary: The salary range for this position is competitive and includes a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, retirement, and tuition remission.Hammond School is seeking a dynamic and engaging professional to serve as its Middle and Upper School Dean of Students. The Middle School is comprised of 300 students, and the Upper School is comprised of 315 students. This person will demonstrate expertise in team building, working with students, utilizing excellent communication skills, and display experience supporting student growth and accountability. The candidate will enthusiastically fulfill job responsibilities and enjoy regular interaction with students, faculty and families. This position is ideal for an individual seeking a collaborative working relationship with a strong faculty, engaged student body, and a school administrative team that seeks to take a great school to an even greater level of serving students.Dean of Students Responsibilities (but not limited to):
- Serve as an advocate for students, supporting their social, emotional, and academic growth, in accordance with the mission of the school
- Co-lead the student mentor program, guiding upperclassmen in their mentorship of freshmen students at Hammond
- Lead initiatives to enhance student engagement, character development, and realization of each student's individual potential
- Oversee honor and disciplinary processes, upholding the expectations of high standards of excellence and student accountability
- Foster a positive and inclusive school community
- Serve on the Middle and Upper School Administrative teams to help shape and execute the shared vision for each division and the school
- With the Director of Student Activities, serve as liaison between students, faculty, administration and families regarding student life outside the classroom
- Communicate effectively on school policies, expectations and resources
- Manage student conduct history and provide guidance to school leaders on policy development
- Collaborating with the divisional counselors, help design a strong, developmentally appropriate advisory curriculum
Dean of Students Requirements:
- Bachelor's Degree, with higher degree strongly preferred
- Experience working with students in a supportive and engaging manner
- Demonstrated interest and excitement in participating in the life of the school beyond the hours of the school day
- Strong interpersonal, presentation, and verbal and written communication skills
- Strong sense of professionalism and confidentiality
- Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive situations with discretion, empathy and integrity
- Proficiency with computers (Blackbaud Experience is a plus)
- Proven leadership ability
A completed application will include the following components:* Cover letter expressing interest, related experiences, and thoughts on best practices for teaching and learning.* Resume or curriculum vitae.* Names of three references and contact information.The completed application and other required documents should be submitted via the website and will be directed to Andrew North, Head of School.Hammond School is an Equal Opportunity EmployerHammond School provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.