Director of Education
Reports to: Rabbi
Status: Full-Time
About the Role
We are seeking a warm, confident, and visionary Director of Education to lead our pre-K–7 religious school, The Barbara Robbins School of Jewish Learning. This is a senior leadership role within our Conservative synagogue, designed for an educator and community-builder who believes deeply in the power of Jewish learning, relationships, and joyful engagement.
The ideal candidate is operationally strong, educationally creative, and relational at their core—someone who brings a calm, curious presence into classrooms. This individual will be deeply woven into the life of the school and community, supporting students, teachers, and families with clarity, confidence, and care.
Religious School Leadership (Grades K–7)
As Religious School Principal, this leader is responsible for the vision, operation, and continuous improvement of a dynamic school currently serving over 115 students. Our goal is to provide exceptional learning experiences that are developmentally appropriate, inclusive, and rooted in Conservative Jewish values.
Key responsibilities include:
- Providing educational vision and leadership for the K–7 religious school, aligned with Conservative Judaism
- Working with the Education and Finance Vice Presidents, and Executive Director on Religious School budget creation and management
- Establish annual and long-term goals for the Religious School, including student learning outcomes, enrollment growth, and family engagement.
- Designing, implementing, and continuously evolving curriculum and learning experiences
- Ensuring strong operational execution, including scheduling, staffing, calendar planning, and day-to-day school management
- Hiring, supervising, mentoring, and supporting teachers; fostering a culture of professionalism, collaboration, and growth
- Creating classrooms that support diverse learners, including students with special needs, accommodations, and varying learning styles
- Leading student recruitment and retention efforts to grow and sustain a vibrant school community
- Promoting the religious school within the synagogue and broader community to attract new students and families
- Building strong partnerships with parents through clear, proactive, and empathetic communication
- Serving as a confident and thoughtful decision-maker while remaining collaborative and open to input
- Being a visible, engaged presence in classrooms and school life
- Partnering with the Rabbi and synagogue staff to integrate school learning into the broader life of the congregation
- Designing and coordinating youth services and programming for the High Holidays, in partnership with clergy and synagogue staff
Schedule & Time Commitment
This role includes regular evenings and weekends, reflecting the rhythms of school and youth life. Our religious school sessions take place on Tuesday evenings (4:15–6:15 PM) and Sundays (9:00 AM–12:00 PM). Board meetings take place monthly on Thursdays at 8pm. Teacher meetings take place monthly after Sunday’s religious school.
Qualifications & Experience
We are seeking a candidate who brings both professional expertise and heartfelt commitment, including:
- Bachelor's degree in Education, Jewish Studies, or a related field; advanced degree preferred
- 3–5+ years of experience teaching and/or leading in a synagogue, school, camp, or Jewish educational setting
- Required Hebrew fluency and liturgical competence
- Significant experience leading or administering a school or educational program serving 100+ students
- Demonstrated success in curriculum development and educational innovation
- Experience supporting diverse learners, including special needs and accommodations
- Strong organizational, operational, and project management skills
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills to a diverse audience including teachers, parents, students, clergy, and staff
- Confidence in decision-making balanced with a collaborative leadership style
- A warm, calm, and curious presence that inspires trust and connection
- Commitment to ongoing professional growth and engagement with the broader field of Jewish education
- Comfort using technology and digital tools to enhance learning, communication, and operations
Who You Are
You are an educator and leader who:
- Believes people and relationships are at the heart of Jewish learning
- Values collaboration and shared purpose
- Is curious, reflective, and open to feedback
- Brings clarity, empathy, and follow-through to complex environments
- Enjoys being visible, present, and engaged with students of all ages
About Us
Congregation Beth Judea is a welcoming, vibrant community located in the Northwest suburbs of Chicago that strives to meet members where they are in their Jewish journey. Our forward thinking approach to Conservative Judaism honors tradition while embracing innovation, offering meaningful ways to practice Judaism in today’s world.
We provide a warm, inclusive environment for worship, lifelong learning, and social connection. Our educational programs foster Torah study for all ages, and our religious school creates a second Jewish home for children.
CBJ is deeply committed to tikkun olam, actively engaging in social action throughout the year to strengthen both our congregation and the broader community.
Our clergy set the tone for genuine connection. Rabbi Zimbalist’s leadership has inspired a culture of warmth and accessibility, encouraging clergy, staff, and members to support and uplift one another.
Total Compensation
$90-$110K (includes value of benefit package)
Our Commitment
We are committed to providing a supportive, collaborative work environment where innovation is encouraged, curiosity is valued, and educators are trusted as professionals. This role is ideal for a leader eager to make a lasting impact on children, teens, and families within a vibrant Conservative Jewish community.