Curator of Education & Outreach [Birthplace of Country Music Museum, Bristol, VA]

POSITION

               Curator of Education & Outreach

PRIMARY FUNCTION

The primary responsibilities of this position are directing and overseeing all aspects of the educational activities, to include innovative programming for museum visitors of all ages and all educational opportunities that exist for the organization.

ABOUT THE POSITION

• Full Time
• Minimum 40 hours per week
• Exempt
• Reports to the Museum Director

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Create and integrate a full range of education material in support of the organization’s mission
• Plan and implement education programming, educational components in exhibits and community outreach designed to maximize the learning experience for children, adult residents and visitors
• Work closely with Museum Director and Docents on delivery of educational goals for school groups
• Develop partnerships with schools to offer curriculum based programs
• Update content of education related materials and presentations on a regular basis
• Establish and stay in regular contact with educators and educator forums
• Ensure understanding of educator curriculum needs and develop materials to meet requirements
• Validate educational material against multi-state core curriculum standards
• Write materials and collateral to support educational programming and exhibitions
• Make presentations to schools and other groups as directed
• Develop, administer, and manage a wide range of programs for a broad and diverse adult audience, including lectures, symposia, gallery programs and music classes/workshops presented by international, national, and local scholars and artists. These programs should include persons of all ages, with special attention given to underserved populations such as low-income, seniors, and veterans.
• Ensure staff and volunteers, as appropriate, are trained in interpretive techniques and exhibition content
• Work closely with museum volunteers and docents and participate in training and scheduling of docents
• Identify and write grants for funding opportunities as they relate to the education of people of all ages
• Maintain up-to-date list of schools and school personnel, continue to make contact and build relationships with superintendents, principals, and school faculty
• Provide detailed monthly report of all education and outreach activities, programs, and meetings

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in music or arts education, history, museum studies, or related field preferred, with two years of experience in education or program development
• Knowledge of and ability to learn teaching methods to apply to curriculum-based, educational programs for all levels, especially for K-12 students
• Preferred: knowledge of old-time, bluegrass, and early country music history
• Self-motivated with demonstrated planning and organization skills
• Desire to work in a fast-paced, innovative non-profit organization