OST Program Director

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Full-Time OST Program Director to lead, manage and oversee the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) After-School and Summer Program. In this role, the Program Director will take charge of youth recruitment, enrollment, and retention efforts, ensuring strict compliance with program contracts. Additionally, the Program Director will recruit, interview, train and manage teaching artists. The position demands a strong commitment to curriculum development and implementation, focusing on delivering engaging, high-quality activities that foster STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math), Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), and Career-Readiness for youth in grades 3-8.

About Philadelphia Arts in Education Partnership (PAEP)

Our mission is to promote life-long learning in and through the arts for Pre-K to grade 12 students, seniors, and special populations in schools and community sites throughout southeastern Pennsylvania. We encourage excellence in arts education practice, grounded in the belief that the arts are integral to the comprehensive education of all learners.

The Program Director will oversee the 21st Century Program at the following elementary and middle schools:

• James G. Blaine
• Anna L. Lingelbach
• Andrew J. Morrison
• Penrose
• Allen M. Stearne
• William H. Ziegler
• Castor Gardens
• General George G. Meade

Essential Qualifications:

• Must have reliable transportation and the ability to travel to worksites across multiple locations.
• Ability to travel within the Philadelphia area and overnight travel to attend mandatory statewide and national conferences or training sessions.
• Ability to attend occasional weekend and evening events for training, meetings, and program activities.
• Must have experience working with youth from diverse backgrounds and cultures.
• Must have supervisory experience and the ability to effectively redirect youth exhibiting challenging behaviors.
• Ability to work under pressure, manage time effectively, and meet deadlines while handling multiple responsibilities simultaneously.
• Proven ability to manage programs and implement curriculum, including planning, organizing, and ensuring the effective delivery of educational and enrichment activities, while also training and supporting staff to ensure program success.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to think creatively and adapt quickly, demonstrating a proactive, self-starting approach to problem-solving and decision-making.
• Must be able to attend and successfully complete CPR/First Aid certification.
• Must pass background checks, including PA State Criminal, Child Abuse, National Sex Offender Registry, and FBI fingerprinting.

Key Responsibilities:

Youth Recruitment, Enrollment, and Retention

• Develop and implement strategies to recruit and enroll students, ensuring that program enrollment goals are met and maintained.
• Cultivate strong relationships with school staff, families, and community partners to promote the program and ensure continued youth participation throughout the year.
• Track and analyze attendance and retention data, identifying trends and implementing strategies to improve engagement and participation.

Curriculum Development and Implementation

• Deliver a curriculum that incorporates STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math), Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), and Career-Connected Learning activities, promoting personal growth, teamwork, and career exploration.
• Plan and facilitate dynamic learning sessions, including interactive projects and reflective activities tailored to diverse learning styles.

Program Quality and Compliance

• Ensure program compliance with 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) contract standards and other relevant regulations.
• Regularly assess and adapt programming based on participant feedback, attendance data, and outcome measures.

Engagement and Family Involvement

• Lead initiatives to engage families, including organizing events and communication strategies that build community and strengthen support for students.
• Coordinate end-of-cycle events that showcase student achievements and encourage family participation in learning.

Data Collection and Reporting

• Collect, analyze, and report on key program metrics, such as enrollment, attendance, retention, and student engagement.
• Ensure timely submission of reports to relevant agencies and provide periodic updates to the Chief Executive Officer on program performance.

Operational Oversight:

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the 21st Century Program, ensuring the efficient implementation of activities and adherence to grant specifications.
• Manage program staff, providing training and support to ensure high-quality service delivery.
• Communicate effectively with school leadership, staff, families, and program contractors to address any issues and ensure smooth operation.
• Collaborate with the Chief Executive Officer to ensure financial compliance and meet program budget targets.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education, Experience, & Skills:

Education:

• Bachelor’s level degree required in the arts, education, social or human services, child development, or related field

Experience:

• At least 3 years of successful teaching experience and/or 2 years of administrative experience in afterschool programs.
• Strong knowledge of 21st Century Grant Program delivery, including staff management, budget oversight, and compliance with grant requirements.
• Experience designing and implementing STEAM, Project-Based Learning, and Social-Emotional Learning curriculum.
• Familiarity with school safety and security procedures and National Standards for Quality School-Age Care.
• Experience cultivating and managing partnerships with community & advocacy organizations and/or government entities.
• Experience with having worked with a high-performance, collaborative, constructive peer group.

Skills:

• Strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with a diverse group of stakeholders.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a keen attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and experience with data management tools.
• Ability to analyze complex situations, solve problems creatively, and communicate effectively with diverse constituencies.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines under pressure.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to multiple locations within the Philadelphia area.

Equal Employment Opportunity Policy

Philadelphia Arts in Education Partnership is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. PAEP prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.