SUMMARY:

The Senior Manager of Curriculum Development provides leadership in the ongoing planning, development, production, maintenance, implementation, and evaluation of AOPA’s high school aviation-based STEM curriculum. The program consists of aviation pathways for grades 9-12 with fully developed year-long courses (similar to a Career and Technology Education pathway) and provides associated teaching materials delivered though an online/digital platform to classroom teachers in AOPA’s high school network. Working with outside contractors and internal stakeholders, the manager is responsible for ensuring course design and teaching elements align with educational and aviation standards and regulations (e.g., Next Generation Science Standards and Common Core State Standards for Mathematics, FAA Airman Certification Standards and Remote Pilot-Small UAS Airman Certification) and provide highly effective experiences and outcomes for students and teachers. The manager is also responsible for maintaining, updating, and enhancing the curriculum to ensure information is accurate, teaching methods are current, lessons are accurate, and modern educational technologies are integrated as appropriate (e.g., video, simulation, and virtual reality). Reports to Vice President, You Can Fly.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBLITIES:

Oversee the development, production, implementation, and evaluation of new and revised curriculum.

Provide guidance, expertise, and oversight to outside contractors responsible for curriculum development and graphic design/presentation. Ensure quality of content and on time/ on budget completion.

Coordinate the review/assessment of current curriculum to ensure that course/program is meeting intended objectives and requirements. Consult with teachers, students, staff, and outside contractors to identify opportunities for improvement of the curriculum.

Manage program and curriculum performance. Provide periodic reports to stakeholders.

Lead teacher professional development program to include formal and information education. Work with internal stakeholders to schedule and plan events. Work with contract trainers and staff to deliver workshops at locations around the country. Assist teachers with the implementation of new curriculum guides and new instructional materials.

Provide curriculum and program related support to teachers through informal professional development, social media groups, and other channels.

Stay current and monitor and evaluate new curriculum/instruction design techniques, technology and assessment techniques for possible incorporation into program.

Assist with planning and managing budget for curriculum-related elements of the High School Initiative.

Work closely and collaboratively with the Director, High School Outreach and Vice President, You Can Fly to ensure the overall health of the initiative.

Work with partner organizations to develop and implement enhancements and offers that support teacher and student success.

Present to teachers, schools, conference attendees, donors, and others regarding curriculum and other aspects of the High School Initiative.

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:

Bachelor’s degree and teaching certification. 

Knowledge of instructional design and curriculum development, including design of lesson plans and assessments.

Certificated pilot (PPL) with deep aviation knowledge.

Knowledge of current techniques and procedures used in the design, development, and evaluation of curriculum.

Ability and experience in managing projects, budgets, and staff.

Business acumen and demonstrated ability to work effectively with consultants, contractors, and strategic partners.

Strong presentation and public speaking skills.

Strong written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.

Strong ability to work effectively with individuals and groups, knowledgeable in the area of instructional methods and theory, ability to work with businesses and the community to develop effective partnerships; desire to serve as a team player, ability to facilitate groups, outstanding problem solving & conflict resolution skills.

Ability to travel on multi-day trips throughout the year.

PREFERRED EDUCATION:

Master’s degree in Education Administration or Curriculum & Instruction Masters

PREFERRED LICENSE OR CERTIFICATION:

Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)