Posted August 7, 2014

The Museum Educator for Pre-K through 12 Programs of the Allentown Art Museum of the Lehigh Valley is responsible for developing, implementing, managing, and evaluating all programs for pre-K, primary and secondary school educational initiatives. The position reports to the Vice President of Community Engagement and is part of a newly organized department combining both curatorial and education staff to create synergies and unique program development with impact throughout the Lehigh Valley.

The position is responsible for achieving the AAMLV’s educational goals and for being part of a team that defines and maintains a vision of the Museum as an educational asset to the public and private schools throughout the region. Using the latest information on early childhood education and state standards of learning this position is responsible for creatively positioning the museum as one of the main advocates for STEAM programming and the integration of the arts into curricula throughout the schools. Responsible for working with the full community engagement team to ensure a vital educational environment that is based, in part, on the Museum’s collections and exhibitions, The position is also responsible for state funded educational programs supported by, and administered through, the Museum and that occur at the museum and in the community.

The position will establish and maintain strong, collaborative working relationships with varied internal and external constituencies to ensure meeting the Museum’s strategic educational goals. The individual will work to further define and advance the case for the support of current and new educational initiatives and will work with funders to create ongoing support and advocacy. The position is expected to not only manage the budget for Pre-K through 12 programming but be actively engaged with the Vice-President for Community Engagement in the solicitation of new grants and the development of new funding sources.

Essential Job Functions

Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, Arts in Education Program.

Coordination and implementation of all aspects of this program including but not limited to:

Identifying and developing artist participation
Creating annual schedule of artist residencies
Developing and implementing all teacher training initiatives
Managing all program budgets and provides liaison to Museum finance staff
Working with schools and community groups to ensure audience development
Participates in PCA Partner gatherings and all other appropriate meetings
Provides advocacy throughout the state for this program
Creates, manages, and staffs AIE Advisory Committee
Oversees, develops and maintains all access to the program on-line
Coordinates with Museum staff in developing all AIE marketing materials
Administers all aspects of the Visiting Artist school program
Supervises and administers Poetry Out Loud Competition
Develops and coordinates existing and new program development for schools and educators:

Conceives, advocates for and develops new initiatives for all grade levels including After School programs;
Cultivates new school district and education contacts and collaborations.
Develops and creates school partnerships for teacher development and training opportunities;
Works with Department of Community Engagement staff to initiate new STEAM programming, teen programming and weekend programming for youth.
Assists with the planning, preparation and distribution of marketing and public relations materials promoting all relevant programs.
Supports the Museum’s current strategic education and community plan.
Continuing to create innovative formal and informal learning initiatives for children of all socio-economic levels, both in the museum and in the neighborhoods of the Lehigh Valley
Partnering with the leading research centers in the Lehigh Valley and utilizing the latest research in early childhood development to create cutting edge programs to help young people prepare for school and for life.
Job Requirements
Education and Experience

The successful candidate will possess, preferably, a Master’s degree from an accredited university in one or more relevant fields (i.e. art education, art history, fine arts, community development, educational theory and practice, museum studies, museum education, etc.) with 5 or more years of experience in a museum or similarly complex not-for-profit educational institution. A BA with an equivalent combination of education and experience is acceptable. Candidates should have a successful track record of educational programming in areas relevant to this position and be familiar with working with various museum communities, funders, school systems and stakeholders.

Knowledge, Skills and Ability Requirements

The ideal candidate must possess a drive to set and meet educational goals and have a strong commitment to quality work and high productivity with close attention to detail. Must have a vision as to how the museum functions as a key element in community and school based education and an ability to work with teachers, parents, administrators, and donors. The ability to manage people effectively and able to multitask is essential. Must possess keen analytical and communication skills. Can work with multiple constituencies and provide leadership to the Board and Volunteer support to ensure success. Experience with grant writing preferable.

Proficient in all Microsoft Office software. Excellent research, writing, and editing. Needs excellent people and communication skills. Able to work independently and as part of a team. Proven organizational skills with ability to manage and complete multiple short-term and long-term tasks and responsibilities. Flexible to work weekday evenings and weekends for meetings and special events.

Submit Resume, relevant writing samples, and the names of 3 references, to hr@allentownartmuseum.org (EOE)