Real World Learning Program Lead Instructor

About The Transition Academy

The Transition Academy (TTA) is a comprehensive career preparation agency established in 2019. Our mission is to prepare students with disabilities to transition from school into meaningful careers through real-world learning and workforce development opportunities.

Since 2019, TTA has worked to meet youth with disabilities and families where they are,  help them explore their interests, talents and skills, and connect them to workforce and job training pathways. TTA works primarily with Kansas City Public Schools and charter schools in Jackson County.

The Transition Academy is seeking a highly organized, proactive professional who is excited about providing exceptional community and family engagement to a growing organization.

Real World Learning Program Lead Instructor Job Summary

The Real World Learning Lead Instructor is a part-time independent contractor (1099) position responsible for providing leadership, oversight, and coordination of The Transition Academy’s Real World Learning (RWL) classroom program. Working in partnership with The Transition Academy team, the Lead Instructor develops and maintains curriculum and instructional materials aligned with program objectives and the learning needs of high school students with disabilities. This role oversees instructional delivery, supports and mentors instructors, monitors student progress, coordinates community-based learning experiences, and manages required reporting and documentation. The Lead Instructor plays a key leadership role in ensuring high-quality program implementation, meaningful student outcomes, and accountability to program goals and stakeholders.

Reporting Structure

• The Real World Learning Program Lead Instructor reports to the Program and Services Director and operates under their strategic leadership and guidance to advance organizational goals and program outcomes.

Essential Job Duties 

Curriculum Development & Instructional Leadership

• Develop, update, and maintain The Transition Academy’s Real World Learning (RWL) curriculum and instructional materials to align with program objectives and the needs of high school students with disabilities across participating school sites. 
• Provide instructional leadership and guidance to instructors to ensure consistent, engaging, and accessible lesson delivery across school sites.
• Monitor curriculum implementation and recommend enhancements based on student outcomes, instructor feedback, and program goals.
• Support instructors in adapting lessons and learning experiences to promote student engagement, inclusion, and career readiness.

Program Oversight & Data Management 

• Oversee the collection and entry of program data, including attendance, participation, and student progress, to ensure accuracy and compliance with reporting requirements.
• Review program outcomes and data trends to identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
• Assist in developing and maintaining documentation that supports student transition planning and program accountability.

Community Engagement & Partnership Coordination 

• Lead the coordination of Real World Learning activities, employer engagement opportunities, and community partnerships.
• Oversee planning and logistics for workplace tours, job site visits, and other experiential learning opportunities.
• Serve as a liaison with school staff, community partners, and employers to strengthen partnerships and ensure successful program implementation.

Program Administration & Reporting 

• Prepare and oversee documentation required for program reimbursement and grant reporting.
• Ensure timely, accurate, and complete submission of program reports and supporting data.
• Provide regular updates to The Transition Academy leadership regarding program progress, challenges, and recommendations for improvement.

Desired Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree (obtained or in progress) in education, workforce development, social services, or related field—or equivalent experience. 
• Experience working with high school students and/or students with disabilities preferred. 
• Strong organizational and time management skills. 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with TTA staff and school partners.
• Commitment to supporting equitable postsecondary outcomes for students with disabilities.

Compensation

• $25–30/hour, commensurate with experience.
• Contractor may bill for up to 10 hours per week.
• Monthly invoices required; payment issued within 15 days of invoice approval.
• No benefits (healthcare, retirement, PTO) are included, as this is an independent contractor role.

Application Process

Applicants must successfully complete a background check. Send resume and cover letter to admin@thetransitionacademy.org.  

Join Our Team!

If you want to be part of a dynamic team that works collaboratively to prepare amazing students for employment and overall success after high school, we want you!