Description
At the Arts Council of Big Sky, we believe in the transformative power of art. Located in the heart of Big Sky, Montana, we offer a wide array of arts education programming for all ages—from pottery and painting to woodburning and stained glass, kids' art classes, after-school programs, and summer art camps. In addition to our educational initiatives, we create dynamic events and install public art installations that engage and inspire the local community. As a growing nonprofit organization, we’re looking for an innovative and passionate Education Program Manager to lead and grow our arts education programs–and join our team of dedicated arts professionals as we work toward our vision of a community connected to and inspired by art.
The Education Program Manager will oversee the development, coordination, and execution of all educational programs, classes and workshops at the Arts Council—held in our studio in the BASE Community Center and our new home at the Big Sky Center for the Arts. This role requires a creative and organized individual who can manage multiple programs, collaborate with instructors and staff, and cultivate a supportive, engaging environment for participants of all ages. Most of our classes and workshops are based on a Contribute-What-You-Can (CWYC) fee structure, making them affordable and accessible to all. The ideal candidate will possess a passion for the arts, excellent communication skills, and a dedication to fostering a positive impact within the Big Sky community. With a long-term vision, this position will help develop additional programming in the new Center for the Arts, ushering in a new era for the Arts Council. This is an amazing opportunity to take an established program and put your mark on it as we move forward with an exciting future of the Arts in Big Sky! In addition to the Program Manager, the education team currently consists of a Studio Coordinator and 4-8 instructors/aides. The key responsibilities for this position include:
Program Management
Oversee the scheduling, planning, and execution of all art education programs, including pottery, painting, stained glass, kids' art classes, after-school programs, special events, and summer art camps. This includes our ARTventure programs, designed for local students to experience art in a variety of settings–from field trips to free art activities at events
Coordinate with teaching artists and instructors to ensure all classes and camps run smoothly.
Manage registration processes, including enrollment, payment processing, and communication with participants and/or parents.
Monitor and evaluate program success, collecting feedback from participants, instructors, and community stakeholders
Curriculum Development & Instructional Support
Collaborate with instructors to design and implement curriculum for diverse age groups, skill levels, and art forms.
Provide mentorship and professional development opportunities for instructors to enhance teaching strategies and keep the curriculum fresh and engaging.
Ensure the educational programs meet the organization's mission and goals, while remaining accessible and inclusive to all community members.
Instruct certain classes/workshops when appropriate
Community Engagement & Outreach
Cultivate relationships with local schools, community groups, and other partners to promote the organization's educational offerings and events.
Assist with marketing materials and efforts to promote programs via email, social media, and community outreach.
Budgeting & Financial Management:
Assist with the development and management of the arts education program budget, ensuring programs are cost-effective and stay within financial guidelines.
Assist development team in researching grant opportunities, sponsorships, and other funding sources to support educational programming, particularly our CWYC programs.
Staff and Volunteer Management
Supervise and provide support for a team of instructors, teaching assistants, and volunteers, including the Studio Coordinator.
Foster a positive and collaborative work environment that encourages creativity, growth, and excellence in teaching.
Attend monthly Board of Directors meetings and other staff meetings when necessary
Event Coordination
Work with other staff to integrate educational programs with Development initiatives and community events when appropriate.
Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in Arts Education, Fine Arts, Art History, or a related field (Master’s degree a plus).
Minimum of 1-3 years of experience in arts education or program management, with a background in ceramics, teaching, painting, or other visual arts a plus.
Experience working in a nonprofit setting is highly desirable.
Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple programs simultaneously.
Excellent communication skills and ability to engage with a diverse audience of all ages.
Ability to create and maintain positive relationships with community members, volunteers, and collaborators.
Passion for the arts and a commitment to fostering creativity and learning.
Familiarity with Big Sky and the surrounding region is a plus.
This position is based in Big Sky and requires working out of our new Center for the Arts building and our pottery studio in the BASE Community Center. The position reports to the Executive Director.
