Director of Beit Sefer

Temple Beth Israel seeks a collaborative and organized educational leader to oversee and strengthen our Beit Sefer program in partnership with clergy, lay leadership, families, and staff. This part-time role is primarily focused on instructional leadership and program oversight, with limited classroom teaching responsibilities as needed. The Director plays a central role in fostering a vibrant, relationship-based Jewish learning
environment consistent with Temple Beth Israel’s mission.

I. Responsibilities

Instructional Leadership:

• Supervise, evaluate (and hire when necessary) all paid teachers, madrichim/student aides, and volunteer staff responsible for the implementation of educational programming.
• Oversee the use and implementation of the ShalomLearning Curriculum for grades K–7, ensuring alignment with Temple Beth Israel’s mission and educational goals.
• Establish a professional rapport with students, staff, volunteers, and the wider community, modeling the highest ethical and professional standards.
• Work in collaboration with the Rabbi, Cantor, and VP Education to ensure effective curriculum, programming, and instruction across all aspects of the educational program.
• Arrange for and lead regular staff meetings.
• Provide or arrange professional development opportunities for both paid and volunteer teaching staff.
• Conduct regular classroom observations to support teacher growth, provide feedback, and guide evaluations as needed.
• Teach curriculum and substitute in the classroom when necessary to support program continuity.

Administration:

• Review and adapt the Beit Sefer Master Calendar for curricular programs and events.
• In collaboration with the Education Administrative Assistant, oversee enrollment processes and maintain accurate student and staff records in accordance with law and TBI policies.
• Participate in Education Committee meetings as appropriate, providing updates and professional insight regarding program needs and progress.
• In partnership with the VP Education and clergy, contribute to budget planning and provide updates as requested.
• Support fundraising initiatives connected to the education program, as needed.
• Engage and support volunteers in meaningful outreach and program activities.
• Participate in regular meetings with the Rabbi and VP Education.
• Participate in Senior Staff meetings as required.

Communication:

• Communicate and coordinate with families regarding school programming, parental involvement, and education using tools such as the TBI e-newsletter, Beit Sefer e-newsletter, social media, and email.
• Communicate regularly with families regarding student progress and ensure teachers are doing the same.
• Maintain consistent and efficient communication with the VP Education and relevant lay leadership, keeping them informed and engaged in ways that support program success.
• Provide updates to the Temple Board as requested.

II. Personal Characteristics and Qualifications:

• Knowledge of Judaism and demonstrated commitment to Jewish life and Jewish education.
• Experience in education or Jewish education.
• Experience supervising paid and volunteer staff preferred.
• Ability to communicate effectively and sensitively with children, parents, volunteers, clergy, and leadership — both verbally and in writing.
• Strong interpersonal judgment and decision-making skills.
• Effective administrative skills including organization, attention to detail, and clear written communication.
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced training or experience in Jewish education or a related field valued.
• Experience with computer-based programs such as Microsoft Office, email platforms (e.g., Mailchimp), and social media.
• Song leading, guitar, and musical skills are a plus.

III. Job Specifics:

• The position is 25 hours per week for a ten-month year.
• The pay for this position is $36,000–$44,000 per year and is dependent upon education, qualifications, and experience.
• This position reports directly to the VP Education and Rabbi.