Director of Education and Programming

Congregation Etz Hayim (CEH), a Conservative synagogue of 140 households serving Arlington, Virginia (Metro Washington DC) and surrounding communities, seeks a vibrant, enthusiastic Director of Education and Programming to lead our Jewish education programs and to develop our small and growing religious school. As a modern, egalitarian community, we encourage diversity and freedom of expression, recognizing that each of us chooses our own path in Judaism. We have a 75-year history of offering a welcoming spiritual home while fostering unity and connection as we journey together on a path toward holiness.  

Congregational learning is the vehicle through which we broaden our understanding and experience of Judaism. The Director sets the tone for a positive Religious School and congregational educational experience and has a vision for new and innovative programming.  The Religious School serves around 50 students from pre-K through post-B’nai Mitzvah. In our classes, students explore the foundations of Jewish living, including holiday observance and traditions, life cycle events, prayer-based Hebrew and Torah study, history and ethics, and our relationship with Israel and our surrounding society.  

Adult Education for members and friends in the community is also a key component of CEH’s commitment to lifelong learning.  The Director should have a passion and enthusiasm for motivating children and adults alike to grow in their Jewish knowledge and observance, in the classroom and beyond.   

The Director of Education and Programming is a full-time position that will report to the Vice President for Youth and Education and the Director of Synagogue Operations.  

Responsibilities

Religious School

• Develop and oversee implementation of a developmentally-appropriate Religious School curriculum with both Judaic and Hebrew components, in coordination with the Rabbi
• Recruit, hire, train, and supervise teachers, madrichim, and Hebrew tutors
• Communicate frequently and effectively with families
• As head of the Religious School, work quickly and creatively to address parent/student concerns, ensure students’ special needs are met, and support teachers in classroom management
• Complete administrative duties as necessary for the successful operation of the school
• Partner with the Rabbi in membership growth and engagement of families with school-age children
• Partner with the Preschool Director in naturally transitioning preschool graduates to religious school
• Oversee B’nai Mitzvah preparation, including coordinating tutors, in consultation with the Rabbi
• Develop and manage the Religious School budget
• Creating a substitute teacher list
• Keep the Vice President for Youth and Education apprised of the status of the Religious School and educational programming

Youth and Adult Educational Programming

• Work with the Vice President for Membership and the Programming Committee to develop programming strategies and a calendar of events for the congregation and for specific cohorts including young families, teens, and adults
• Lead planning and implementation of educational programs, including collaborating with volunteers, staff, and speakers, and communicating with the congregation about programming
• Develop, plan, and lead select Shabbat and holiday youth programming, including Minyan Tzair (youth Shabbat service) and High Holidays youth services, in coordination with the Rabbi
• Develop, facilitate, and lead non-formal/experiential Jewish educational programs and events for the congregation
• Apply for and receive educational and programming grants for the school and congregation
• Supervise all aspects of CEH’s adult education program, including determining programming that ties in with the needs of the congregation and, where possible, themes of the Religious School, in consultation with the Rabbi
• Advertise and promote programming to the CEH community and beyond in partnership with staff, including contributing to the weekly congregational email, posting on social media, and advertising to local Jewish organizations
• Develop and manage educational programming budget

Desired Qualifications and Qualities of Our Ideal Candidate

• Strong knowledge of Hebrew, Jewish practice, and Torah, specifically within the Conservative movement of Judaism
• 2+ years of experience in educational leadership and programming; work with elementary, junior high, or high school programs preferred
• Demonstrated experience/knowledge of curriculum/programming development; best practices in working with youth and teens
• M.A. in Education or Jewish Education preferred
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including public speaking skills
• Strong organizational and administrative skills; time management and ability to delegate responsibility are a must
• Responsive, proactive, self-starting, and innovative: experience in developing programs from the ground up and implementing new ideas
• Collaborative - wants to be a part of a team (including the Rabbi, office staff, and lay leadership)
• Able to engage effectively with children of all ages, from pre-K through teens
• Passionate about continuing own growth and education
• Experience supervising and supporting teachers

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• 403b Retirement Plan, including disability insurance, pension continuation insurance, and life insurance
• Professional development assistance
• Synagogue membership
• Preschool and/or Religious School discount for children

Additional Information

• This is a full-time position and requires working during religious school hours, select Saturday mornings, and occasional evening and weekend events
• Mondays off during the religious school year
• Salary from $70,000 commensurate with experience

Please send resume and cover letter to [email protected]