GEAR UP Professional Development Coordinator

Department: GEAR UP

Application Deadline: April 9, 2026

Salary: $51,500

About Arkansas Tech:

Founded in 1909, Arkansas Tech University is a comprehensive public institution with a rich history, maintaining regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and classification as a Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) level III institution. ATU was ranked the No. 1 regional public university in Arkansas by U.S. News and World Report in 2021-22 and 2022-23 and CollegeNET recognizes ATU as the No. 1 institution in Arkansas on its Social Mobility Index. Since 2019, Arkansas Tech has been the host institution for the prestigious Arkansas Governor’s School. The 559-acre Russellville campus, located in the scenic Arkansas River Valley between the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains, is just one hour from the capital city of Little Rock. Russellville features a charming blend of historic and modern architecture as well as the recreational opportunities provided by Lake Dardanelle and several state parks. Offering more than 100 undergraduate degree programs and more than 40 graduate degree and certificate programs across five academic colleges and two campuses, Arkansas Tech strives to provide a solid educational foundation for life-long learning to a diverse community.

Position Summary:

The Professional Development Coordinator for GEAR UP will be responsible for designing and implementing professional development programs for educators in the partner school districts. This role aims to enhance teaching practices and support the academic success of GEAR UP students by equipping educators with the necessary skills and knowledge. This is a nine-month, full-time provisional position. (Grant-Funded by the US Dept of Education).

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Develop and coordinate professional development workshops and seminars focused on innovative teaching strategies, inquiry-based learning, and critical thinking.

Collaborate with school administrators and teachers to assess professional development needs and tailor programs accordingly.

Facilitate training sessions that align with the GEAR UP program's objectives and educational standards.

Assist in the development and refinement of curriculum materials that support a college-going culture and academic excellence.

Work with educators to integrate culturally relevant and responsive teaching practices into the curriculum.

Serve as a liaison between Arkansas Tech University and partner schools to ensure effective communication and collaboration on professional development initiatives.

Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of professional development activities, collecting feedback to inform continuous improvement.

Prepare reports on professional development outcomes and contribute to the Annual Performance Report (APR).

Facilitate engaging after school enrichment opportunities aligned to college and career readiness goals.

Engage with community partners and educational organizations to leverage resources and expertise.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders required.

Expertise in instructional leadership and curriculum design.

Ability to facilitate engaging and effective training sessions.

Proficiency in using technology to enhance teaching and learning.

Strong organizational and project management skills.

Minimum Requirements:

Master's degree in education, curriculum development, or a related field.

Minimum of five years of K-12 teaching experience with a background in curriculum required.

Preferred Qualifications:

Doctorate preferred.

Experience in designing and delivering professional development programs for educators.

Work Location, Environment, and Physical Demands:

The Professional Development Coordinators for GEAR UP will be housed on the Russellville campus of Arkansas Tech University and will work with the director, GEAR UP staff, and multiple other stakeholders engaged in the grant-funded GEAR UP program to meet the goals of the program.

Some local travel may be required.

What to Submit:

Please submit a cover letter.

Resume

Three references.

To be considered for the position of GEAR UP Professional Development Coordinator, all applications must be received and processed through our applicant tracking system Cornerstone prior to the closing date on April 9, 2026, before 6:00 pm central time.

Please go to https://atu.csod.com/ats/careersite/search.aspx?site=1&c=atu to