Director of Belonging
Newton Country Day School is a forward-thinking, independent Catholic school for girls in grades 5-12 committed to fostering an environment where every member of our community feels seen, heard, and valued. Our mission extends beyond academic excellence, aiming to cultivate a sense of belonging and mutual respect among students, faculty, and staff. We embrace diversity, encourage empathy, and support the personal growth of all individuals within our school.
The Director of Belonging is a strategic role designed to champion our commitment to creating an inclusive environment. This individual will lead the development and implementation of initiatives that promote a sense of belonging for all school community members, regardless of their background or identity. Reporting to the Assistant Head of School, the Director will work collaboratively across departments to ensure our practices, policies, and daily interactions reflect our core values of inclusivity, respect, and empathy.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and lead the execution of a strategic plan to enhance the sense of belonging within the school, ensuring alignment with the School’s overall mission and values.
- Establish benchmarks and indicators of success for measuring the effectiveness and impact of belonging initiatives.
- Collaborate with academic and administrative departments to integrate belonging, diversity, and inclusivity principles into curricula, policies, and school culture.
- Design and facilitate professional development and training programs for faculty and staff on inclusion, diversity, empathy, and a welcoming environment.
- Serve as a mentor and advisor for students and student groups, providing guidance on matters related to belonging and inclusivity.
- Organize and support events, workshops, and discussions that promote understanding, respect, and community engagement. This includes arranging for speakers and events that build cultural competency within the Windows and Mirrors framework.
- Act as a liaison between the school and external communities, forging partnerships that enhance educational opportunities and foster a sense of belonging.
- Provide support and resources to the Affinity Group programming in both Upper and Middle Schools.
- Lead a team or committee dedicated to belonging initiatives, ensuring diverse representation and participation across the school community.
- Mentor and develop capacity in student leaders.
- Work with the P.R.I.S.M. (People for a Racially and Inclusive Society of Multiculturalism) Student Council to discuss student belonging with a holistic lens.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Education, Psychology, Sociology, or related field; Master’s degree preferred.
- Experience in a role focused on diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging initiatives, preferably within an educational setting.
- Demonstrated success in developing and implementing initiatives that promote inclusivity and belonging.
- Strong leadership and organizational skills, with the ability to inspire and mobilize individuals toward common goals.
- Well-developed interpersonal and communication skills, capable of building relationships with a wide range of individuals and groups.
- Deep understanding of the dynamics of diversity, equity, and inclusion within educational environments.
- Ability to navigate sensitive situations with empathy, discretion, and integrity.
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter highlighting their experience and vision of fostering belonging in an educational setting and a current resume. Applications should be sent to elevine@NewtonSH.org.
Newton Country Day School is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. This is a ten-month faculty position.
MA law requires fingerprint-based and criminal offender record information (CORI) checks for all employees working in public and private schools.