At Flushing High School, deans play roles in fostering a supportive environment for students and families. From managing daily operations to addressing student concerns, the job is challenging but deeply rewarding. For the deans at Flushing, being a dean is about far more than enforcing rules; it’s about building relationships and shaping lives.
The Journey to Becoming a Dean
Interestingly, Mr.Tobia and Mr. Eller didn’t start their careers with the intention of becoming deans. Most like Tobia and Eller, began as teachers, driven by a passion for education.
Mr. Eller is head of Flushing’s Deans and Assistant Principal of Climate and Culture. His story shows how strong and determined they are, thanks to the help they received along the way. After stepping away from college for a time, he worked at an after-school program where his principal noticed his talent for working with kids. Encouraged by this recognition, Eller taught his first Spanish class and immediately fell in love with teaching. Several years later, he took on the role of a dean, eager to expand his impact.
Tobia’s path was also shaped by influential mentors. As a student, he struggled at times but had teachers who guided him, treating him like the young adult he was. “They took me aside when I wasn’t doing well and helped me see my potential, I was kind of a knucklehead, ” he says. Inspired by their support, Tobia decided to dedicate his career to helping students in the same way.
Coach Ortiz emphasizes the physical parts of the job, joking about the endless walking it requires. “Catching the same kids in different staircases can be frustrating,” he admits, “but as long as we’re doing our job and helping students, it’s worth it.”
The Heart of the Job
For these deans, the most fulfilling aspect of their work is building meaningful connections. Whether it’s collaborating with parents or guiding students toward better choices, the opportunity to make a positive difference is what drives them.
“The best part of the job is making decisions that help families and bringing positive changes to a student’s life,” Eller shares. This hands-on involvement offers a unique perspective on the challenges students face and allows the deans to provide support.
Tobia agrees, adding, “Every day brings frustrations, no matter what you do in life.”
A Role Without Regrets
Despite the challenges, all three deans agree that the role has close to no downsides if it aligns with one’s passions and communication skills. “Unless you do the job, you don’t know what it is,” Eller explains, but for those who care about education and connecting with kids, the rewards outweigh the obstacles.
Eller credits his wife for pushing him back into school and inspiring him to pursue his dreams. “I don’t know where I’d be without her support,” he admits.
For the deans at Flushing High School, each day offers a chance to inspire, guide, and uplift students—one bond at a time.
