Seeking experienced part time Education Director able to start immediately.
Hebrew School Director Job Description
The Astoria Center of Israel (ACI located in Queens, NY) is seeking a warm, organized, and collaborative Education Director to lead our growing Religious School program. Reporting to the Rabbi and Education Chair, the Education Director provides educational leadership, supports teachers, fosters a positive learning environment, and ensures our program reflects ACI's mission and values. As ACI celebrates its centennial year, we are building on a rich history while looking toward an exciting future. Our small, egalitarian Conservative congregation is largely volunteer-run, with a strong commitment to growth, innovation, and community. Like many small nonprofits, we balance that vision with thoughtful stewardship of our financial resources.
The Education Director oversees our Religious School program for children ages 5–12. We have a staff of 5 teachers and teaching assistants as well as volunteers. Classes meet weekly on Tuesday afternoons from 3:30–5:30 p.m., mid-September through mid-June, and are organized by age, educational level, and background.
The ideal candidate has experience developing engaging Jewish educational programming that incorporates hands-on learning, arts and crafts, storytelling, music, and movement to inspire and excite students. They are a collaborative, solutions-oriented leader who can mentor teachers, facilitate effective staff meetings, and work closely with the Rabbi, Education Chair, and education team to strengthen the program.
Fluency in Hebrew is required; native-level proficiency is a plus but not required.
This is a part-time leadership position with an on-site commitment on Tuesday afternoons during the school year, along with planning, communication, and administrative responsibilities throughout the week.
In a recent survey, parents expressed the following priorities for their children’s education:
- Feeling a sense of community with other Jewish children
- Familiarity with Jewish traditions, history and culture
- Learning about and engaging in activities related to Jewish values (tikkun olam, social justice, charity, etc)
- Reading Hebrew and knowing and understanding Hebrew blessings and prayers
The Director reports to the Rabbi and the chairs of the Education Committee. This is a part-time position. Responsibilities include the following:
Educational Responsibilities
Instruction & Curriculum
- Build on the existing curriculum and support teachers in developing lesson plans with clear, age-appropriate learning goals.
- Participate in educator interviews with the Rabbi and Education Committee Chair.
- Assign students to classes and adjust placements as needed based on enrollment and student needs.
- Maintain curriculum and lesson plan resources.
- Ensure classrooms, materials, and staff are prepared before each school day, including coordinating substitute coverage.
- Periodically assess student progress and readiness for milestones such as B'nei Mitzvah.
- Source and vet specialty programs that support curriculum goals.
Instructional Leadership
- Coach and support teachers by sharing instructional resources and best practices.
- Lead monthly staff meetings and coordinate two professional development sessions each year.
- In partnership with the Rabbi and Education Committee, conduct periodic classroom observations and provide constructive feedback.
- Help ensure instructional practices align with ACI's mission and educational goals.
Community Engagement
- Maintain a visible presence at ACI on Tuesday afternoons (2:30–5:30 p.m.) while public schools are in session.
- Build positive relationships with students and families through regular communication.
- Coordinate weekly classroom highlights and photos for ACI communications.
- Organize student participation in congregational events, holiday celebrations, and the end-of-year Shabbat service.
- Assist with recruitment efforts, including planning and supporting the annual Open House.
- Take meetings with prospective students and families.
Administrative Responsibilities
- Maintain student attendance records in collaboration with the office administrator.
- Prepare classrooms for the start of the school year with the Education Committee Chair.
- Manage classroom organization and student placement throughout the year as enrollment changes.
- Maintain educational inventory and coordinate classroom supply needs with the office administrator.
- Collaborate with the Communications Committee and website developer to promote ACI's educational programs.
- Communicate effectively with the Rabbi, Education Committee, teachers, parents, office staff, and volunteers to support program success.
Program Development
- Partner with the Rabbi and Education Committee Chair to develop and expand programming for post-B'nei Mitzvah students. Meet with students and families to discuss goals as they apporach B'Nei Mitzvah
Qualifications
- Minimum 5 year experience in Jewish education or teaching, with at least 3+ years in program leadership or management role.
- Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Passion for creating engaging Jewish learning experiences.
- Ability to mentor teachers while fostering a collaborative and supportive environment.
Salary: salary commensurate with experience
Please send resume and cover letter to Education Chair, Joanna Muenz at [email protected]. Refer any questions about this position to [email protected]