Dean of Students

Flint Hill School (Flint Hill or the School), an innovative preparatory school right outside of Washington, D.C., seeks a collaborative, compassionate, approachable, and inspiring leader to serve as its next Upper School Dean of Students (the Dean). Flint Hill is known for its student-centered approach to teaching, a diverse and inclusive community, and a strong emphasis on character education. The work of this Dean touches many of the most complex and challenging areas in education: access and inclusivity; advising and mentorship; cultural climate; mental health and wellness; autonomy and accountability; and developmentally oriented student success. 

With a Head of School in his third year of innovative leadership, Flint Hill’s commitment to the student experience is strong and evolving. This Dean of Students will play a critical role in developing an exciting vision that will further distinguish Flint Hill’s approach to upper school students and deliver on its best-in-class, holistic education. The successful candidate will be a highly visible and engaged presence, walking the hallways and serving as the hour-to-hour and day-to-day leader of student life, while simultaneously bringing creative and fresh strategies to student programming and a new advisory curriculum. They will collaborate with students, faculty, and families to strengthen connections, champion student success, and foster an inclusive community.

Founded in 1956, Flint Hill serves students from junior kindergarten through grade twelve, with a total enrollment of approximately 1,045 students and 160 faculty and staff members across two campuses in three academic buildings. Flint Hill’s evolution from a small, local elementary school to a prominent JK-12 institution reflects a continuous dedication to excellence, adaptability, and meeting the needs of a changing educational landscape. The School inspires students to reach their greatest potential while maintaining balance and well-being, supporting a holistic approach to academic and personal growth. Flint Hill’s five core values guide every interaction: respect and value all equally, lead and support with compassion, act with integrity, imagine what is possible, and blaze the trail. 47 percent of students identify as students of color, and the Learning Center was one of the first of its kind in the area, providing direct support for students with different learning needs. A culture of support and inclusion allows students to feel welcome and connected from day one, whether they’re a “lifer” or transferring from another school. Flint Hill’s ability to honor its roots while embracing modern advancements has made it a cornerstone of independent education in Northern Virginia. Flint Hill intends to be a leader in DC-area independent schools – and nationally – in identifying innovative approaches and best practices regarding the student experience. Success requires close coordination, clear communication, mutual understanding, a shared sense of purpose, and a unified approach across the Upper School. 

The Upper School building —the largest division, with 568 students and 67 faculty across grades 9-12—expanded nearly 25 years ago. The Upper School offers a comprehensive academic program in a supportive, close-knit community, exposing students to more freedom and choice and setting the stage for college life. Flint Hill believes that learning led by curiosity inspires students to develop passion and purpose, and this approach is evident in hands-on learning, senior projects, real-world connections, and student-designed clubs. The Upper School cultivates deep learning and encourages students to pursue all interests. To prepare students for college, four full-time college counselors focus on truly getting to know each student and guiding them to “right-fit” schools. Students graduate as confident self-advocates with the skills and maturity to excel in college and beyond. 

Reporting to the Director of the Upper School, the Dean of Students provides visible and active leadership in daily school routines and major events, while promoting equity, accountability, and community engagement. They advocate for students, balancing collaborative autonomy with clear behavioral expectations, and lead the development of fair, restorative disciplinary practices. In particular, this next Dean will: foster connections between faculty, staff, students, and families to advance holistic student learning and success; promote student success by balancing collaborative autonomy with accountability; strengthen student programming alongside other upper school leaders and grade-level deans; promote a culture of proactive student advocacy and transparency; continue to establish a sense of belonging and serve as a key champion for equity, inclusion, and wellness; and serve as a liaison to the Senior Leadership Team.

All inquiries, nominations, and applications may be directed electronically below. 

Berkley Braden is leading this search with Gigi Mensah, Rachel Banderob, and Katie Rockman. 

Flint Hill School supports and complies with applicable provisions of local, state, and federal law that prohibit discrimination in admission, enrollment, access, or use of its educational or extracurricular programs, activities, or facilities; on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, place of birth, ancestry, ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, service in the armed forces of the United States, positive HIV/related blood test results, genetic information, disability, and/or any other status or characteristic as defined and to the extent protected by applicable law.