About the Department
At the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools, students in Nursery through Grade 12 experience a world-class educational journey. Founded in 1896 by John Dewey, Lab continues to provide excitement and imagination in learning. Academic rigor, experiential learning, and intellectual discourse are hallmarks of a Lab education. Lab educators are recognized for excellence in teaching and pride themselves on innovation in the classroom. Families who choose Lab care deeply about curiosity, inquiry, and creativity.
Lab’s mission prioritizes honoring diversity and exhibiting kindness. We are committed to building a teaching and learning community where young people see aspects of their backgrounds reflected around them, feel a deep sense of belonging, and discover and use their voices. Today, 53-59 percent of Lab’s student body are students of color, and families report speaking nearly 40 different languages at home. Approximately 60 percent of Lab families are affiliated with the University of Chicago. Inclusion is a fundamental value at Lab, where we celebrate every facet of community members’ identities, emphasizing respect and civility.
Lab seeks the finest employees to join our vibrant learning community. We employ people with a wide range of skills who have in common a love of learning and the wish to inspire that same love in young people. We strongly encourage applications from candidates of color, LGBTQ+ identified candidates, and candidates from historically marginalized backgrounds. We strive to ensure that Lab is a joyful, welcoming, and inspiring place to work.
Job Summary
The role of Director, Family Life Programs, is to maintain and develop innovative programs that extend the school’s mission before and after the school day and throughout the summer. These programs include summer camps, extended day programming, and special classes for children in grades nursery through eighth grade. The Director has the opportunity to lead in a dynamic learning environment where staff are committed to continuous improvement and share a passion for big ideas. Family Life Programs attract and benefit the entire Lab community, including our growing international population.
Responsibilities
Manage a team of eight to ten professionals and numerous seasonal positions. Skilled in management, staff development, and budget management.
Oversee the design and implementation of programs aligned to strategic objectives and best practices. Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory reporting requirements.
Develop and maintain a comprehensive network of input data to assess and prioritize learning and program development needs.
Develop internal and external collaborative partnerships to support the Laboratory Schools’ vision.
Propose annual budget and manage resources in alignment with budget directives.
Understand the complexity of operating co-curricular programs within four divisions (Grades N–12).
Dynamically integrate both strategic and tactical thinking.
Balance the needs of the students and families across the Schools.
Meet the needs of international students and families attending summer programming.
Find opportunities to expand programs and generate a viable net profit.
Contribute to developing and modifying overall funding strategies.
Manage campus efforts to strengthen student community and satisfaction.
Perform other duties as needed.
Minimum Qualifications
Education: Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in a related field.
Work Experience: Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 7+ years of work experience in a related job discipline.
Certifications: None specified.
Preferred Qualifications
Education:
Master’s Degree in education, youth development, social services, social justice, political policy, or a related field.
Experience:
Preferred Competencies
Demonstrated knowledge in youth development and training facilitation.
Strong project management skills and ability to execute initiatives.
Experience in managing and developing staff.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Experience in managing contracted providers and vendors.
Working Conditions
Requires sitting for extended periods, standing, and manual dexterity for working with computer keyboards.
Ability to stand for two to four hours, climb stairs, and lift up to 25 lbs.
Ability to walk or travel between Lab’s campuses in all seasons and weather conditions.
Application Documents
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