Job Title: Executive Director
Organization: Association of Illinois Montessori Schools (AIMS)
Location & Position: Hybrid; Part-time; Independently contracted position (within Illinois); occasional travel
About Us: AIMS is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting Montessori education across the state of Illinois. We support and advocate for Montessori principles, provide professional development opportunities for educators, and serve as a resource hub for Montessori schools and communities. Read our Mission, Vision, & Values statement here.
Position Overview: The Executive Director of AIMS will provide visionary leadership and strategic direction to advance the mission and goals of the organization. In collaboration with the Board, they will help oversee operational aspects, foster collaboration within the Montessori community, and ensure initiatives are in support of the broader Montessori community. Engage in & advocate for policy efforts & initiatives, representing AIMS at local, state, and national levels.
Key Responsibilities:
Leadership and Strategic Vision:- Develop and articulate a strategic vision in collaboration with the Board of Directors to guide the organization's growth and impact.
- Lead and inspire Board members, AIMS members, and stakeholders to achieve organizational objectives with a commitment to Montessori principles.
Policy, Advocacy and Community Engagement:- Serve as the primary spokesperson for AIMS, promoting awareness of Montessori education and advocating for policies that support Montessori principles across the state of Illinois.
- Build and maintain relationships with Montessori schools, educators, parents, policymakers, and other stakeholders to strengthen the Montessori community statewide.
- Design and implement strategies for advocacy for Montessori Education through increased understanding, partnerships and communication with relevant organizations, key individuals and state and national entities.
- Develop and execute a legislative action plan, which will include, but not be limited to:
- Identify lobbying targets (IL General Assembly)
- Develop key talking points for communication with congressional representatives
- Communicate pertinent information provided by governmental Agencies (including but not limited to): Illinois Board of Education (ISBE); Department of Child and Family Services (DCFS)
- Monitor, disseminate, and make recommendations on behalf of AIMS on pertinent educational policy, child care licensing, quality improvement systems, & state funding streams impacting Montessori education (including but not limited to): NCLB; Universal Pre-K; Illinois Early Learning Project (ISBE/University of Illinois); Common Core Standards; Workforce compensation and quality improvement grants, CCAP
Professional Development and Education:- Develop and implement professional development opportunities and educational programs that enhance Montessori practices and support the professional growth of educators.
- Oversee, organize, and manage the annual AIMS conference with execution support of the Board and other volunteers. Outline and coordinate plan for logistics to include (but not limited to) a budget which includes 600 plus attendees; select & manage hotel for conference site; coordinate volunteers; identify and negotiate with keynote speakers; coordinate marketing efforts (website and on-line registration), manage registration; provide financial management.
Governance and Board Relations:- Work closely with the Board of Directors to develop board policies, provide regular updates, and support board development and engagement.
Marketing and Public Relations:- Serve as a thought leader and ambassador for AIMS within the regional, and larger Montessori communities. With Board support, develop and implement marketing strategies to raise the profile of AIMS and promote its mission, efforts, and events.
- Enhance the organization's visibility through effective communication and social media.
Finance:- With the collaboration of the Board and Board Treasurer, oversee the organization's budget, finances, non-profit compliance, insurance, and fundraising efforts to ensure financial stability and growth.
Membership:- Increase membership with the purpose of strengthening and increasing quality Montessori programs for families and children in Illinois.
- Evaluate and determine, with the Board, appropriate membership categories (institutional, administrator, teacher).
- Develop and communicate information on the benefits of AIMS membership.
- Maintain membership systems that are user-friendly.
- Develop methods for ongoing evaluation and satisfaction of AIMS members (surveys, meetings).
Qualifications:
- Experience & strong understanding of Montessori philosophy.
- Proven leadership experience in a non-profit organization.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships and collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
- Experience in financial management and strategic planning.
- Experience in Education, Nonprofit Management, Business Administration, or related fields preferred.
Salary & Benefits:
- $30-40K (salary will commensurate upon experience)
- Professional development opportunities (travel & registration costs will be covered)
Application Process: Interested candidates should submit a resume & cover letter outlining their qualifications and vision for the role. References may be requested in the application process. Please submit resume & cover letter to AIMS Board President, Reena Vohra Morgan, no later than September 30, 2024.
Equal Opportunity Employer: AIMS is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in its workforce. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other legally protected basis.
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