Program Director, DECATS at Baylor

What We Are Looking For

Baylor University is seeking a Program Director for DECATS at Baylor. The purpose of DECATS at Baylor is to provide life-changing learning opportunities to academically gifted and talented students in fourth through seventh grade. DECATS at Baylor offers an engaging opportunity for high-ability students to participate in a three-week summer adventure of challenging and enriching coursework. DECATS at Baylor nurtures the whole learner and fosters the development of tomorrow’s leaders. DECATS at Baylor consists of a core curriculum, developed by experts in gifted education, and engaging elective courses developed by the curriculum and instruction team at The Center. The Program Director reports directly to the Director of Pre-Collegiate Programs and provides part-time administrative support for the program in the months leading up to the summer program. Most of this preparation work can be completed remotely and on a flexible schedule. For the three weeks that the program is in session, it requires 40 hours per week of in-person work on Baylor’s campus. The total time commitment, including training and prep work, should not exceed 355 hours.

A Bachelor's degree and three years of relevant work experience are required. A Master’s degree and five years of relevant work experience are preferred. A combination of education and experience will be considered in lieu of one another.

Additional required qualifications include:

• Teaching certificate or equivalent professional experience
• 30 hours of foundational training in GT education
• Previous experience working with gifted children or adolescents
• Ability to communicate effectively and positively with students, families, and other staff
• Strong organizational skills
• Exceptional customer service skills

Additional preferred qualifications include:

• Completed graduate degree in education
• Experience providing professional development for GT teachers
• Previous leadership positions in GT programs

All applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. 

What You Will Do

• Complete all required trainings and job-specific assignments prior to working with students
• Assist the Director of Pre-Collegiate Programs in planning for the program; that work may include interviewing instructors and teaching assistants, updating and revising curricula, scheduling students into classes, training instructors and teaching assistants, creating duty schedules, and managing supply orders
• Troubleshoot any issues that arise to ensure the day-to-day running of the program is conducive to positive student learning experiences
• Observe classes and provide instructional coaching to faculty to ensure students are engaged in the content and faculty are utilizing best educational practices
• Organize and oversee student drop-off and pick-up each day
• Lead daily student assemblies
• Ensure that staff are actively supervising students during lunch and breaks
• Adhere to and enforce all safety and risk management policies
• Collaborate with Center leadership team to resolve any student disciplinary issues or concerns in an appropriate manner that aligns with the Center’s mission and policies
• Maintain positive relationships with students, parents, faculty, and staff
• Ensure faculty and staff complete all tasks required for effectively closing the program (submitting student evaluations, returning supplies that belong to Baylor, reporting any property damage that occurred during the activity, etc.)
• Conduct faculty and staff meetings on a regular basis
• Assist in providing final evaluations for staff and the program as a whole
• Perform all other duties as assigned to support Baylor’s mission
• Ability to comply with university policies
• Maintain regular and punctual attendance

What You Can Expect

As part of the Baylor family, eligible employees receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, generous time off, tuition remission, and outstanding automatic retirement contributions. Baylor has a comprehensive benefits plan that supports you and your family’s wellbeing and allows you to be a part of the life of a vibrant and active college campus.  To learn more, go to Baylor Benefits & Advantages.

Explore & Engage

Learn more about Baylor and our strategic vision, Baylor in Deeds.  Also, explore our great hometown of Waco and the many opportunities to engage locally.  If you are new to Central Texas, This is Waco!