Beit Sefer Director

Job Posting: Beit Sefer (Religious School) Director
Ann Arbor Reconstructionist Congregation (AARC)

The Ann Arbor Reconstructionist Congregation (AARC) is seeking a Beit Sefer Director for the 2025-26 (5786) school year to lead our small but vibrant K-6 religious school. This part-time position offers the opportunity to shape Jewish education in a welcoming and inclusive Reconstructionist community.

About Us:

AARC is a progressive, inclusive Reconstructionist congregation in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Our Beit Sefer (religious school) serves 10-15 students on Sunday mornings, providing a meaningful Jewish educational experience that emphasizes Jewish values, Hebrew language, and community engagement.

Position Overview:

The Beit Sefer Director will be responsible for the overall administration, leadership, and curriculum development of the religious school. Working collaboratively with AARC’s Board, rabbinic leadership, and educators, the Director will create an enriching, engaging, and welcoming environment for students and families.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Administration

• Recruit, hire, supervise, and support teachers and madrichim (student aides).
• Oversee day-to-day school operations, including opening/closing school and being present during all sessions.
• Manage teacher evaluations, feedback, and professional development.
• Establish substitute teaching plans and contingency arrangements.
• Make weather-related or emergency closure decisions and communicate with families.
• Develop and maintain the school calendar in coordination with AARC leadership.

Curriculum & Instruction

• Customize and implement curriculum for different age groups, focusing on tefillah (prayer), Jewish holidays, Torah, earth-based Judaism, and Hebrew language learning.
• Provide guidance to teachers on lesson planning, classroom management, and student engagement.
• Conduct student Hebrew assessments at the beginning, middle, and end of the school year.
• Ensure that Beit Sefer programs align with Reconstructionist values and best practices in Jewish education.
• Coordinate with the rabbi to organize junior services and other educational programming.

Family & Community Engagement

• Serve as the primary point of contact for parents and prospective families.
• Maintain parent/student rosters and ensure smooth communication with families.
• Schedule regular parent meetings and be available for discussions before and after class.
• Collect and track important student information (e.g., allergies, emergency contacts, authorized pickup lists).
• Coordinate with parent volunteers when applicable (e.g., class snack, Hebrew evaluations).
• Attend congregational services when Beit Sefer participation is planned.

Event & Community Coordination

• Collaborate with the Events Manager on student-related events such as Purim and community Chanukah celebrations.
• Represent AARC at Jewish Educators' Council meetings and local teacher training sessions.
• Work with the AARC webmaster to update school information on the website.

Budget & Operations

• Work with the AARC Board to establish and manage the religious school budget.
• Track and submit invoices for school-related expenses.
• Maintain records of lesson plans, materials, attendance, and school operations.
• Archive important school documents and digital files.

Facility & Safety Management

• Ensure that classrooms are set up before and restored after school sessions.
• Safely maintain access to JCC keys and follow all facility guidelines.
• Monitor and enforce safety procedures, including weather-related school closures.

Qualifications & Preferred Skills:

• Experience in Jewish education, curriculum development, or school administration.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Familiarity with Reconstructionist or progressive Jewish values (preferred).
• Ability to engage with children, families, and teachers in a warm and supportive manner.
• Comfort with Google Drive, spreadsheets, and digital communication tools.

Position Details:

• Hours: Approximately 9 hours per week (including Sunday school sessions).
• Compensation: Competitive part-time salary, commensurate with experience.
• Location: Ann Arbor, MI

Salary range:  $40 - $60/hour 

How to Apply:

To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter to [email protected] by April 30, 2025.

Join us in shaping the next generation’s Jewish learning experience in a dynamic and inclusive community!