Director of Education

Director of Education

Uptown Knauer Performing Arts Center

Department: Education Reports To: Executive Director

Salary: $60-65k/year; Overtime Exempt.

Benefits: QSEHRA Eligible

Start Date: August 2026

Position Summary

The Director of Education is responsible for the strategic vision, development, and execution of all educational programming within Uptown Knauer Performing Arts Center. This position oversees the continued success and growth of Uptown Studio, the organization's award-winning theatre education program, while leading the expansion of educational offerings across the organization's core artistic pillars: Theatre, Music, Dance, Comedy, and Film.

Working closely with existing educational and artistic partners, the Director of Education will develop innovative programming, strengthen community partnerships, and create meaningful educational pathways for students of all ages and experience levels. This role ensures all educational initiatives align with the organization's mission, artistic standards, and long-term strategic goals.

This role often operates with after-school and weekend hours. During the summers, this shifts to daytime hours while overseeing summer camps. Hours ultimately vary seasonally at approx. 40 hours/week.

Key Responsibilities

Program Development & Oversight

Design, implement, and evaluate a diverse range of classes, camps, workshops, and performance opportunities across Theatre, Music, Dance, Comedy, and Film.

Maintain and grow Uptown Studio, ensuring continued excellence in curriculum, enrollment, student outcomes, and artistic quality.

Expand educational programming through collaboration with existing community and artistic partners.

Continuously develop new and engaging curriculum offerings that reflect current industry trends and best practices.

Ensure all educational programming maintains high artistic and educational standards.

Leadership & Collaboration

Supervise and support the Education Coordinator, providing leadership, mentorship, and direction for day-to-day educational operations.

Recruit, hire, train, and evaluate teaching artists, directors, instructors, and educational staff.

Foster a positive, inclusive, and professional culture within the education department.

Collaborate with organizational leadership to align educational programming with broader strategic objectives.

Production & Artistic Direction

Direct and/or oversee student productions, showcases, recitals, screenings, and performances.

Coordinate staffing, scheduling, and logistics for all educational productions, camps, classes, and special programs.

Ensure productions meet organizational expectations for artistic excellence and educational value.

Administrative & Operational Management

Develop and manage education program budgets in coordination with the Executive Director.

Oversee scheduling, enrollment tracking, program logistics, and resource allocation.

Establish and maintain policies, procedures, and safety standards for educational programming.

Monitor program performance and recommend improvements to increase impact and sustainability.

Community Partnerships & Engagement

Build, strengthen, and maintain relationships with schools, community organizations, teaching artists, and partner organizations.

Identify opportunities to expand educational offerings through strategic partnerships.

Represent the organization at community events, educational initiatives, and industry gatherings.

Serve as an ambassador for the organization's educational mission and programming.

Marketing & Growth Support

Collaborate with marketing staff to promote classes, camps, workshops, and productions.

Support enrollment growth through strategic planning, community outreach, and audience development initiatives.

Assist in developing promotional strategies that increase awareness and participation across all educational programs.

Collaborate and support fundraising efforts for the education department and organization-at-large

Student & Family Experience

Ensure a high-quality, accessible, and welcoming experience for all students and families.

Address concerns, feedback, and challenges with professionalism and care.

Cultivate an environment that supports student growth, creativity, and artistic achievement.

Foster a sense of community among Studio families

Prioritize a warm, supportive, and safe environment for all students and families

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Arts Education, Theatre, Performing Arts, Arts Administration, or a related field

Minimum 3–5+ years of experience in arts education, program management, or a related leadership role.

Experience directing and/or producing theatrical productions and working with students of various age groups.

Demonstrated success in program development, partnership cultivation, and educational leadership.

Strong organizational, leadership, and communication skills.

Passion for arts education and commitment to fostering inclusive, high-quality programming.

Preferred Skills

Knowledge of current trends and standards in performing arts education.

Experience managing budgets and educational program operations.

Ability to manage multiple projects, priorities, and deadlines simultaneously.

Collaborative, entrepreneurial, and solution-oriented mindset.

Experience building partnerships and expanding educational programming across multiple artistic disciplines.