Director of Jewish Life and Learning
The mission of The Dr. Miriam and Sheldon G. Adelson Educational Institute (The Adelson School) is to instruct and inspire new generations of students who will draw strength from a rich Jewish heritage, and use their knowledge, values, and vision to fulfill their own potential and build a better world. The Adelson School, founded on Jewish values and ethos, is the only PK-12 Jewish community school in Nevada.
The Director of Jewish Life and Learning (JL&L) is a dynamic, creative self-starter with a passion for Judaism and Israel. The position requires strong values of pluralism and nurturing a community with diverse and varied expressions of Jewish life, and who can connect deeply with students from a wide range of Jewish backgrounds. The Director of Jewish Life and Learning works collaboratively with staff in multiple areas of The Adelson School to bolster opportunities for Jewish education and experience. Working closely with the Head of School, members of school staff – both Judaic/Hebrew and secular – local Rabbis, and communal leadership, the Director of JL&L promotes the advancement of The Adelson School’s Jewish education vision through meaningful programming.
Position Summary:
Reporting to the Head of School, this position requires strong leadership and communication skills along with a warm and nurturing disposition. The Director of Jewish Life and Learning is a member of the School’s large leadership team. The right candidate must be able to work positively and in partnership with parents and teachers, promoting an atmosphere of community and collaboration.
Program Development:
● Support teachers in encouraging a positive connection to Judaism in the classroom and within a diverse community.
● Engage all stakeholders (teachers, families, school leadership, community leaders) in productive collaboration to build Kehillah in the school.
● Lead staff and students to create pluralistic, inclusive, innovative Jewish education and programming on campus, engaging with and encouraging students to develop meaningful Jewish journeys and experiences.
● Increase the overall visibility and presence of Jewish values and culture throughout The Adelson School community.
● Evaluate current Hebrew and Jewish Studies curricula, assessment tools, and standards, and develop key objectives and results for the Hebrew program.
● Lead the design, planning, and implementation of the Hebrew and Jewish Studies curricula in collaboration with the Upper School Jewish Studies Department Chair, Upper School World Languages Department Chair, and Lower School Hebrew and Jewish Studies Coordinator.
● Identify and address community areas in need or in search of Jewish educational guidance and support.
● Serve as a resource to Adelson School staff on Jewish values, culture, and holidays.
● Create celebratory and meaningful educational opportunities around Jewish holidays, commemorations, and traditions.
● Inculcate an appreciation of Israel, through both formal and informal educational opportunities.
● Collaborate with partners in Israel to design, plan, and implement the high school trip to Israel.
● Participate in opportunities for professional growth and learning.
Staff Supervision/Employee Relations:
● Responsible for Jewish Studies and Hebrew program supervision, staff collaboration, and community outreach.
● Develop a strong partnership with the Principals of the Lower, Middle, and Upper Schools.
● As a member of the large leadership team, work with the Head of School, administration, and the Adelson School Board committees to implement the strategic vision for Jewish life and learning programs.
Fiscal Responsibilities:
Direct and manage the fiscal operation of the Jewish Life and Learning program through budget planning and management processes with the Chief Financial Officer and Head of School.
Communication and Leadership:
● Communicate effectively with parents, staff, and prospective families to promote understanding and support of the School’s mission and vision. Encourage feedback regarding Jewish programs and activities.
● Collaborate with the Marketing Director to create and develop materials to publicize the Jewish educational learning opportunities at The Adelson School.
● Maintain open dialogue with staff, students, and parents to build a collaborative environment.
● Maintain composure and effectiveness under pressure as problems arise.
Skills, Knowledge and Abilities:
● Well-versed in Jewish culture and literacy with access to educational resources.
● A passion for Judaism and Jewish life.
● Proficiency with the Hebrew language.
● An approachable, dynamic, engaging personality with outstanding interpersonal skills.
● The ability to engage and connect with multiple constituencies, including teachers, students, parents, and community leaders.
Education and Experience:
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Jewish Studies or related discipline. Rabbinic ordination is strongly preferred.
● Minimum of 2 years’ experience working in an informal or formal educational environment as a Jewish Educator.
● 3 to 5 years’ experience in an independent school is strongly preferred.
Physical Requirements:
● Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk.
● Must be able to lift 50 pounds at times.
Candidates for this position should submit a cover letter, resume, statement of educational philosophy and contact information for a minimum of three (3) references. Please combine all documents into a single PDF and email to jobs@adelsoncampus.org
The Adelson School is committed to equal employment and will consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, sex, color, religion, age, nation origin, marital status, disability, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or genetic information. The Adelson School is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. If you are an individual with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process and/or need an alternative method of applying, please email jobs@adelsoncampus.org or call 702-515-8206. When contacting us, please provide your contact information and state the nature of your accessibility issue. We will only respond to inquiries concerning requests that involve a reasonable accommodation in the application process.