Program Director - Schoolhouse of Wonder

Ask yourself 

Do you take pride and joy in knowing that your work creates magical moments for a child? Is your superpower the ability to partner vision with action, mentorship with growth, and responsibility with fun? Do you have a passion for inspiring those around you to be their best selves? 

You might be the next Program Director for Schoolhouse of Wonder! 

Why? 

Schoolhouse of Wonder is looking for an innovative leader passionate about their work, who are committed to Schoolhouse’s mission and values, and who value diversity, equity, and inclusion. 

The Program Director reports to the Chief Operations Officer and is an important member of both our administrative and field teams. They are responsible for the operational success of our programs. They take their experience, creativity, and vision and transform it into high-quality, nature-based outdoor programming. The Program Director, through supervision and mentorship of our Day Camp Managers, is responsible for the successful delivery of programs in Orange, Durham, and Wake Counties. 

What will you do as Schoolhouse of Wonder’s next Program Director? 

• Collaborate with core staff on marketing, advertising, online content creation, the Schoolhouse website, and registration software. 
• Represent Schoolhouse in community partnerships and events (e.g. outreach events, fundraising, etc.) as needed and serve as a key external face of Schoolhouse of Wonder. 
• Research, monitor, and present relevant data, trends, successes, and best practices in all areas of responsibilities including child development, industry practices, SEL, and related research. 
• Set the standard by modeling Schoolhouse’s values, methodologies, policies, and procedures, including creating a safe environment.  
• Manage staff through trainings, mentorship, giving and receiving feedback, modeling behavior, and creating a culture of individual and organizational growth.  
• Ensure high-quality programming including the coordination of activity and staff schedules, budgets, community partnerships, inventory management, and evaluation across all counties and program areas. 
• Set an excellent example in teaching and behavior management methods, work ethic, and attitude. 
• Safeguard the physical, emotional, and intellectual safety of participants. Model Schoolhouse values of empathy, respect, and wonder. Patiently process conflict and disagreements. 
• Communicate with participants, their families, other Schoolhouse staff, and park partners. Create established lines of communication built on trust and empathy. 
• Participate in all aspects of programs. Actively engage participants and deliver consistent and exceptional supervision. 

Why Schoolhouse of Wonder? 

Founded in 1989, Schoolhouse of Wonder’s mission is to create kind, curious, and confident kids through nature-based outdoor adventures. We seek to achieve this mission through year-round, outdoor day camps, curriculum-aligned field trips, and leadership training for teenagers. We believe open-hearted children become open-minded adults. Schoolhouse of Wonder is a place where everyone can play, learn, and grow toward being their best selves. 

These core values guide our behavior and help us make decisions: 

• We model and teach self-awareness and empathy 
• We celebrate individuality; Different is just different 
• Everyone deserves to be witnessed, heard and respected 
• In nature, we’re all students 
• Life should be filled with adventures and a sense of wonder 
• We send every kid home dirty, tired and happy 

Our programming occurs on the ancestral, traditional, and contemporary land of the Eno, Lumbee, Sappony, Shakori, Occaneechi, and Tuscarora peoples.   

Want to know more? Visit Schoolhouse of Wonder’s website at https://schoolhouseofwonder.org/.  

Key lived experiences, attributes, and skillsets sought in the Program Director 

• A commitment to Schoolhouse’s mission, values, policies, and procedures 
• A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field of study (Environmental Studies, Child Development, Outdoor Education), or equivalent combination of education and experience, a minimum of five years 
• A passion for and experience in outdoor youth program development, administration, delivery, and evaluation 
• Staff management experience and exceptional mentoring skills, including effective communication, enthusiasm, resourcefulness, positive attitude, and patience 
• Proficiency in computer use including Word, Excel, Google Workspace, and ability and interest in learning new programs 
• Great verbal, interpersonal, and listening communication skills 
• The ability to thrive in a team setting as well as the ability to work independently, to show extraordinary attention to detail, and to handle challenging situations with positivity and enthusiasm 
• The ability and willingness to accept and effectively act on feedback and guidance 

The following are not required, but preferred: 

• Experience working with diverse populations 
• Experience with project management software, Wordpress, and/or Google Analytics 
• Teaching experience including experiential or inquiry-based learning techniques 
• Knowledge and interest in environmental education, the cultural history of the Southeast, storytelling, behavior management, and/or child development 
• Experience or training in socio-emotional learning, trauma-informed care, or play-based learning 
• Skill-based training or certifications (Lifeguarding, EMT, WFR, etc.) 
• English/Spanish bilingual fluency 

This position requires:  

• Up-to-date COVID-19 Vaccination or exception with verification 
• Current pediatric and adult CPR and First Aid certification by the first day of work (American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or American Safety and Health Institute) 

Think you are the next Schoolhouse of Wonder Program Director? 

To apply, click on the link to the Program Director position profile at ArmstrongMcGuire.com/jobs. You will see instructions for uploading your compelling cover letter, resume, salary requirements, and professional references.  Please provide all requested information to be considered. In case of any technical problems, contact talent@armstrongmcguire.com. No phone calls, please, and no applications will be accepted by email or directly from third-party posting sites. 

The salary range for this position is $48,000 to $54,000 annually, commensurate with experience. Schoolhouse of Wonder provides 100% paid health insurance, a professional development stipend, an annual gear stipend, paid time off, paid holidays, and participation in Schoolhouse of Wonder the retirement plan. This is a full-time, salaried, exempt, “at will” position that reports to the Chief Operations Officer.  

Qualified women, minorities, and bilingual candidates (English/Spanish) are encouraged to apply. We are fully invested in creating a supportive environment for all marginalized groups including women, people of color, and LGBT+ people by promoting community collaboration within our organization. 

Schoolhouse of Wonder is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, disability, national or ethnic origin, or sexual orientation.