-arlington Work Opportunities ∙ Page 1

Education Director - School of Performing Arts

Metropolis Performing Arts Centre is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organization located in the heart of Arlington Heights, Illinois. It houses a 329-seat professional theater, and a school of performing arts offering drama, dance, and music lessons to artists of all ages. Metropolis’ mission is to create an artistic home for performers, students, and audience members by making the arts accessible in our community.

SUMMARY OF POSITION:

In collaboration with executive leadership, the Education Director leads all aspects of the School of Performing Arts. This position is responsible for planning, budgeting, implementing, and developing all educational programs within the school. The Education Director supervises faculty, the Associate Director of Education, the Education Administrator, and the Education Assistant, ensuring high-quality instruction and impactful student experiences. This role combines educational vision with strong organizational and leadership skills to advance the mission of the School of Performing Arts, foster excellence in teaching and learning, and strengthen the program’s impact within the community.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Manage budgets for the Education Department.
• Design, develop, and update comprehensive music and theater educational curriculum for various age groups and skill levels.
• Develop a plan and strategy for areas to improve or expand programs. 
• Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate teaching staff and guest instructors.
• Supervise and mentor the Associate Education Director, Education Administrator, and Education Assistant to ensure a high level of artistic vision and quality. 
• Collaborate with Education Marketing Assistant and Associate Education Director on marketing initiatives.
• Submit payroll for faculty, guest artists, and summer camp counselors.
• Conduct performance evaluations and provide professional development opportunities.
• Serve as leader for the School of the Performing Arts, which includes promoting the school at local events like Harmony Fest, Farmers Market, National Night Out, Parades, Musical Petting Zoos, etc
• Create, implement, and enforce departmental policies and procedures.
• Foster effective communication and conflict resolution with faculty, staff, and parents.
• Ensure team effort in care and maintenance of all classrooms, studios, and general areas.
• Oversee class registration and private lesson scheduling organized and executed by Associate Education Director and Education Administrator.
• Oversee and support development of long-term residencies, one-day workshops, and events organized and executed by Associate Education Director and Education Administrator.
• Work with the development department in finding funding and grant opportunities for arts education programs.
• Strategize, implement, oversee, and support all school productions and camps.
• Lead the implementation of all showcases and recitals organized by Associate Education Director and Education Administrator.
• Demonstrate PERFORM values of Metropolis and create an inclusive/accessible environment for all
• Complete other duties as assigned by the Executive Director or Artistic Director.

QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Bachelor’s degree in fine arts, music, education, or related field required.

• Flexibility to work occasional irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, based on production schedules.