THE EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM STAFF ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR FACILITATING THE KENNEDY INSTITUTE’S EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS FOR K-12 STUDENTS AND MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC.
Who We Are:
The Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate is dedicated to educating the public about the important role of the Senate in our government, encouraging participatory democracy, invigorating civil discourse, and inspiring the next generation of citizens and leaders to engage in the civic life of their communities.
We at the Kennedy Institute believe that civic education and engagement includes learning about important historic and contemporary policy issues, understanding how the issues are addressed inside and outside our democratic structures of government, and taking action on civic issues in ways that reinforce democratic practices and broaden democratic participation. The Kennedy Institute strives to provide balanced, transparent, and inclusive civics education experiences that make room for conversations between people of broad ideologies and perspectives in respectful, productive ways.
Educational Program Staff:
The Educational Program Staff are responsible for facilitating The Kennedy Institute’s Educational Programs, in-person and virtually, for K-12 students and members of the public. Facilitation involves instruction, semi-scripted role-playing, and directing student participation. Educational Program staff may be asked to facilitate these programs in The Institute’s recreation of the U. S. Senate Chamber, or over video conference with remote participants. Staff may also be asked to conduct interpretation and tours with school groups, adult groups, and general visitors as needed. This is a part-time position with work hours from 8:30 a.m. -12:30 p.m., 4-5 days per week, with some flexibility to work occasional afternoons.
Primary Responsibilities:
Perform and assist in the facilitation of educational programs, both in-person and virtually, including set-up and break-down procedure.
Ensure that the standards of excellence set by the Institute are reflected in the daily presentation of the educational programs and guided group experiences.
Participate in ongoing training to ensure consistent quality of performances and integration of refreshed content, as appropriate.
Qualifications and Skills:
High school diploma or equivalency required.
Experience working in museums or other hands-on learning environments.
Experience working with varied audiences including students (Grades K-12 and beyond), teachers, and visitors.
Experience teaching, supporting, or working with diverse learners including English Language Learners and/or marginalized.populations.
Proven ability to provide compelling educational content for young people, of varied social and cultural backgrounds, with a variety of learning styles and needs.
Fluency in English required (fluency in other languages is a plus, but not required).
Strong verbal skills and ability to communicate information clearly to people of different ages, language skills, cultural backgrounds, and physical abilities.
Comfort with public speaking, role-playing, and performance; a theatrical or classroom educator background is helpful, but not required.
Ability to be patient, flexible, and to quickly adapt to shifting circumstances and conditions.
Ability to troubleshoot issues that may arise in the course of facilitating a program.
Ability to foster a spirit of collaboration and cooperation while working with all Institute colleagues, volunteers, and interns.
Maintain a professional work attitude and act with the highest standards of respect and courtesy.
Enthusiasm to educate and inspire the next generation of American leaders.
An interest in civics, politics, and government.
Comfort working with virtual conferencing tools, and audio visual equipment
Availability on weekday mornings is required (staff can expect to work 16-20 hrs a week)
Ability to pass a criminal background check is required
Ideal Candidate:
At least 1 year of relevant work experience is preferred, some of which should be in a hands-on learning environment, school setting, or working directly with students in an educational or performance setting. Previous public speaking, improvisational or theatre background is a plus.
The above is intended to provide insight to the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this role. The above is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required.
External and internal applicants, as well as position incumbents who become disabled as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act must be able to perform the essential job functions (as listed) either unaided or with the assistance of a reasonable accommodation to be determined by management on a case-by-case basis.
The Edward M. Kennedy Institute for The United States Senate is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.
Compensation: $25.00/hour