Associate Director, Professional Development & Instructional Issues

NJEA is a union of nearly 200,000 members working in the best public schools in the nation and across our community colleges.

Currently announcing a vacancy for a TEMPORARY Associate Director of Professional Development and Instructional Issues. The duration of this temporary position will be through August 31, 2026.

Summary

Individuals holding this position report directly to the Director of the Professional Development and Instructional Issues Division. The purpose of this position is to collaboratively envision, design, and execute a range of initiatives aimed at equipping members with the necessary knowledge, skill, and understanding for effective professional practice in today's climate. They possess a strong sense of advocacy for and understanding of diverse perspectives and are dedicated to promoting equity and inclusion in all aspects of our work.

Functions

1. DEVELOPMENT & COORDINATION:
   • Collaborate with division staff in the planning and implementation of the PD Program, annual NJEA Convention, NJEA Teacher Leader Academy, ACCESS Program, statewide conferences, and identified special projects;
   • Support the programs and projects of the Professional Development Institute;
   • Design and facilitate professional learning experiences and activities that support the development of member and affiliate professional practice;
   • Facilitate the development of professional learning content in and member advocacy for social, economic, and racial justice;
   • Design and facilitate hosted conversation experiences that support advocacy, organizing, and enhancing professional practice;
   • Assist the Director with coordination of PDII Consultant assignments, Consultant Leadership Teams, and consultant training program.
2. MEMBER RELATIONSHIP & PARTNERSHIP MANAGEMENT:
   • Respond to requests from members, affiliates, and allied organizations for information on PDII programming and issues of professional practice;
   • Collaborate with allied organizations to create relevant professional learning opportunities for members and communities;
   • Assist with the work of committees supported by the division;
   • Assist Governance task forces and external partnership groups, as needed.
3. RESEARCH & ADVOCACY SUPPORT:
   • In consultation with NJEA UniServ division staff, advise members of their rights and responsibilities under state regulations as related to issues of professional practice.
   • Conduct research on relevant issues of professional practice, analyze and report findings and recommended actions;
   • Stay informed on current developments and trends in the field, possess the ability to consistently read and update themselves on relevant issues impacting education; Supply members with relevant and timely information and learning opportunities;
   • Offer research support to staff from other divisions, task forces, and committees on positions, programs, projects, testimonies, and legislation.
4. Perform a primary assignment to include one or more of the following:
   • Coordinate support to NJEA staff and leaders in the implementation and administration of certification, evaluation, and issues of professional practice. Collaborate with NJEA UniServ staff and Legal Services on issues impacting professional practice;
   • Monitor education research and policy development, including activities of the Department of Education and State Board of Education, and relevant partner organizations with interests and activities that impact NJEA and its members;
   • Coordinate the NJEA ACCESS program to support and facilitate embedded professional learning opportunities, community organizing, and improved well-being and student outcomes in partner schools;
   • Coordinate all aspects of the NJEA Teacher Leader Academy program to support and facilitate members' pursuit of the state endorsement in Teacher Leadership;
   • Coordinate all major planning, implementation, and partnerships in support of the annual NJEA Convention;
   • Coordinate all major planning and implementation of the PDII division statewide conference program;
   • Facilitate the development and implementation of professional learning programs and special projects in relevant areas impacting professional practice, including Special Education, effective instructional practice, curriculum development, student services, technology integration, teacher leadership, and conversational practices;
   • Coordinate the PDII Consultant program, assignment logistics, and training program. Coordinate and coach the PDII Consultant Leadership Team and ongoing development of PDII consultants;
   • Coordinate the PD program content, ensuring relevance, timeliness, and diversity of content that enhances member professional practice;
   • Coordinate and maintain synchronous and asynchronous virtual professional learning opportunities and resources; Support professional learning in technology implementation;
   • Apply hosting practices, adult learning theory, design thinking, and facilitation practice to contemporary issues faced by members and affiliate leaders to assist them in addressing diverse challenges and needs.
5. Perform such other duties as may be assigned from time to time by the NJEA Executive Director or the PDII Division Director.

Qualifications, Training, and Experience

1. Extensive knowledge and hands-on experience in the primary subject area of the division, specific to the role.
2. Strong project and event planning and coordination skills, including experience in organizing successful conventions, conferences, projects, and/or programs, and utilizing technology tools, relationship management, and budgeting.
3. Exceptional collaboration, communication, and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with colleagues and stakeholders.
4. Proficiency in executive functioning skills, including time management, prioritization of tasks, handling multiple projects simultaneously, and meeting deadlines.
5. A meticulous attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and decision-making skills, especially in high-stress situations.
6. A passion for continuous learning and expanding knowledge base.
7. Proficiency in computer software and technologies.
8. Ability to handle demanding workloads, work extended hours, and maintain a high level of performance in fast-paced and stressful environments, drive to locations throughout New Jersey, and occasionally travel out-of-state, as needed.

Apply

The deadline to submit letter of interest and resume via email at cmiles@njea.org is Monday, April 8, 2024. Completed applications are due by April 22, 2024. An application will be forwarded for completion based upon review of the submitted resume.

NJEA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Prohibits Discrimination and Harassment of any kind. All aspects of employment decisions including but not limited to the application process, the decision to hire, promote, discipline or discharge without regards to race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, civil union status, domestic partnership status, affectional or sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy or breastfeeding, sex, gender identity or expression, disability or atypical hereditary cellular or blood trait of any individual, or because of the liability for service in the Armed Forces of the United States or the nationality of any individual.