Academic Counseling & Support
The Dean system embodies Kinkaid's commitment to the holistic development of every student.
Through enduring relationships built over time, Deans:
- Help students reflect, plan, and self-advocate as they navigate the opportunities and challenges of adolescence.
- Guide students through academic planning, personal growth, leadership opportunities, and postsecondary preparation.
- Help students make the most of their Upper School experience while preparing them for success beyond Kinkaid.
At Kinkaid, every Upper School student is paired with a Dean who serves as a trusted advisor, mentor, advocate, and college counselor throughout all four years of Upper School.
Because students work with a dedicated Dean throughout Upper School, they are known deeply, not only as learners, but as individuals.They are supported by a team of experienced Deans who collaborate to ensure every student receives thoughtful guidance and care.
College Recruiters
Questions?
Contact The Deans Office
713.243.6508
Core Commitments
At the heart of the Dean system there are three core commitments:
Collaboration
Student success is strengthened through partnership. Deans work closely with families, faculty, counselors, learning specialists, administrators, and one another to ensure that students receive comprehensive and coordinated support.
As students prepare for life after Kinkaid, they benefit from the Deans’ extensive experience in both secondary school counseling and college admissions. Drawing on decades of professional expertise, longstanding relationships with colleges and universities, and a deep understanding of an evolving admissions landscape, Deans help students navigate the college process with clarity, perspective, and confidence.
Individualized Development
Every student's path is unique. Deans encourage students to reflect on their experiences, identify their strengths, explore their interests, and pursue opportunities that align with their goals. By fostering a growth mindset and developing self-advocacy skills, Deans help students take increasing ownership of their educational journey and prepare for the responsibilities that await them in college and beyond.
Relationships
Meaningful growth begins with strong relationships. Through regular conversations, ongoing support, and a genuine investment in each student's well-being, Deans build lasting partnerships with students and families. These relationships provide a consistent source of guidance and encouragement during some of the most formative years of a young person's life.
Why it Matters
Guidance for Kinkaid students by our Deans is informed by years of knowing each student personally. Rather than existing as a separate experience, college counseling is the culmination of a four-year partnership focused on helping students discover who they are, what matters to them, and how they hope to contribute to the world around them.
Additional Student Support
The Kinkaid Upper School provides ongoing, daily guidance to help students manage the challenges of high school. In addition to our Deans' Office, Kinkaid offers specialized programs through our School Counselors and Learning Specialists. School Counselors work to support the social and mental health needs of our students, and Learning Specialists work to ensure all students have the tools they need to meet their individual academic goals. Our support staff encourages students to seek aid when necessary and are available to all types of learners in our community.
Organizations
Kinkaid is a member of the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), an organization of secondary school counselors and college admission officers. Kinkaid is also a member of the Texas Association for College Admission Counseling (TACAC) and the Association of College Counselors in Independent Schools (ACCIS).