Director of Curriculum and Learning

Company Overview

Gardeneers is a mission-driven nonprofit transforming the lives of students and communities on Chicago’s South and West Sides. Founded in 2014, Gardeneers was created to address food inequity and inspire holistic student development through culturally relevant garden-based education. Partnering with 22 K-12 schools serving predominantly low-income Black and Latinx students, Gardeneers creates vibrant outdoor classrooms and gardens where youth connect with nature, develop leadership skills, and cultivate a deep understanding of nutrition and environmental stewardship.

At its core, Gardeneers embodies a culture of compassion, open-mindedness, and continuous growth. The team and program prioritize collaboration and a commitment to social and racial justice that amplifies nutritional resources and the community experience in all facets of its work. Gardeneers strives to maintain a supportive workplace where personal accountability, critical feedback, adaptability, and lived experiences are celebrated as pathways to individual and organizational success. 

Gardeneers’ programs extend beyond the classroom, fostering community resilience by producing more than 5,000 pounds of fresh, organic food annually and distributing it to families in need. Rooted in the belief that every individual deserves access to nourishing food and green spaces, Gardeneers empowers students to grow as leaders who will shape a more nutritious and sustainable future for Chicago and beyond.

Position
 

The Director of Curriculum and Learning is a passionate leader and educator who plays a pivotal role in overseeing all aspects of a school-based gardening program, including curriculum development, student engagement, staff development, community partnerships (i.e., After School Matters, and AmeriCorps), and educational outreach that will enhance students and community members learning experiences for nutritious and sustainable eating. The Director of Curriculum and Learning will also collaborate with the Director of Operations to adhere to the program budget and compliance. Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer and Head Grower, the Director of Curriculum and Learning leads a team that includes 2 Program Managers, Garden Educators, and AmeriCorps Service Members.

The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in curriculum development and teaching, with a proven ability to create engaging and impactful learning experiences for diverse youth populations. They will also demonstrate strong organizational skills, a passion for community-building, and a commitment to the holistic development of students as our future leaders. If this resonates with you, apply today!
 
 

Responsibilities 
Curriculum and Implementation
 

• Lead the development and execution of culturally relevant, student-centered curriculum, instructional materials, and assessments that align with Gardeneers’ mission, vision, and programmatic goals.
• Oversee the scope and sequence of seasonal lessons, ensuring alignment with organizational branding guidelines, educational standards, and community needs.
• Collaborate with external partners and senior leadership to implement and evaluate curriculum, continuously improving its impact and effectiveness through data collection and analysis.
• Facilitate the teaching and learning components of programs such as After School Matters, managing lesson content, supplies, and visiting professionals.
• Monitor program outcomes and evaluate program effectiveness through data collection, analysis, and actionable insights to inform improvements.
• Keep abreast of industry trends and best practices in digital and in-person curriculum development, instructional methodologies, and technology.
• Use innovative teaching tools and approaches to create engaging, inclusive, and impactful learning experiences for diverse student populations.

Community Outreach and Partnership

• Build and maintain strong relationships with school administrators, teachers, families, and community stakeholders to align programming with the unique needs of each community.
• Partner with AmeriCorps' Director, Program Managers, and Service Members to ensure the successful execution of school programs and garden spaces, providing mentorship and guidance to maximize their impact.
• Collaborate with community organizations, local leaders, and Gardeneers staff to strengthen partnerships and secure resources for school garden programs.
• Act as a liaison for schools and community partners interested in joining Gardeneers, providing information about programs, maintaining a waitlist for future partnerships, and ensuring alignment with Gardeneers’ mission and values.
• Represent Gardeneers at community events, school meetings, and public presentations to advocate for the importance of garden education and sustainable community initiatives.
• Oversee community events such as farm stands, Community Day, and Resource Fair Days to enhance community involvement and distribute fresh, organic produce to families in need.

Staff Development

• Supervise, mentor, and guide a team of 2 Program Managers, Garden Educators, and AmeriCorps Service Members, providing regular feedback, training, and support to ensure team success (approximately 15 staff and partners).
• Conduct weekly team check-ins, garden educator meetings, and quarterly reviews with school administrators to address programming goals and challenges.
• Foster a positive, inclusive workplace culture focused on professional growth, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Oversee the staff and student recruitment, onboarding, and development of new program staff, equipping them with the skills and resources to execute their roles effectively.
• Support the professional development of staff through leadership coaching, conflict resolution training, and opportunities to attend conferences and workshops.
• Develop and manage program and staff work schedules to ensure seamless delivery of curriculum and program experience.

Budget Management and Reporting

• Collaborate with the Director of Operations to manage an annual programming budget, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and financial constraints.
• Oversee purchasing and procurement of materials and supplies necessary for program implementation, adhering to budgetary limits and timelines.
• Track and evaluate program metrics, including garden harvest logs and lesson implementation reports, to assess impact and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Assist with grant applications and reporting, providing data and insights to support funding proposals and program accountability.
• Ensure timely submission of invoices, purchase orders, and program-related financial documentation to support organizational operations and sustainability.

Qualifications
 

• Expertise in developing culturally appropriate curricula and instructional materials for diverse youth populations. 
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. 
• Proven leadership ability to inspire and manage teams, coordinate projects, build consensus, and foster a positive and inclusive work environment. 
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities effectively and proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and Google Suite platforms. 
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and maintain a safe working environment in the garden.
• Pass criminal background checks is required for employment.
• Bachelor's degree in Education, Agriculture, Horticulture, Environmental Science, or related experience.
• Minimum of 7 years of youth development and sustainable gardening experience with a strong program and curriculum development background. 

Benefits

Gardeneers offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience and a comprehensive benefits package (health care, vision, dental, 401k, paid time off). In addition, we are committed to investing in the professional development of staff to enhance our ability to work with and serve our stakeholders. NOTE: This job description is intended to convey the essential functions and requirements of the position and is subject to change at the discretion of Gardeneers. 

At Gardeneers, diversity strengthens our team and enriches our work. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment for everyone and encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, prioritizing those with experience serving the populations we work with.  We believe everyone deserves respect and equal opportunity regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.