GEAR UP Grant Director — Partnerships & Impact

BRADLEY COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT; Cleveland (TN); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Bradley County School District is seeking a Project Director for the GEAR UP program to provide overall oversight and leadership for a 12-month grant. The role coordinates services across Bradley, Meigs, and Polk Counties, launches advisory and enrichment programs, and ensures compliance with federal grant terms.

The position requires a Master's degree in a related field and at least five years of relevant experience with school-based programs, plus strong communication and leadership skills.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in education, counseling, guidance, or related field.
• At least five years of work experience with middle or high school students in school- or community-based settings.
• Ability to work with diverse populations including low-income and first-generation students.
• Experience with project and federal grant management and familiarity with grant regulations.
• Familiarity with GEAR UP, TRIO or similar programs to support postsecondary education.
• Strong communication, organization, and leadership capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Provide overall program oversight and leadership in the implementation of GEAR UP.
• Coordinate all planned GEAR UP services, activities, and events between Bradley County Schools, Meigs County Schools, Polk County Schools, and partners.
• Launch advisory, mentoring, and enrichment programs.
• Provide program orientation, college and career workshops, and parent and student engagement activities.
• Ensure compliance with US Department of Education policies and grant terms/conditions.
• Manage budget, authorize expenditures, and monitor fiscal resources.
• Coordinate with external evaluator on data collection for reporting and continuous improvement.
• Lead GEAR UP Management Team and advisory council; supervise Site Coordinators and staff.
• Develop partnerships and sustainment plans beyond grant life.

Education

Master's degree in education, counseling, guidance, education administration, social work, or related field

Five+ years of relevant work experience with middle/high school students

Excellent communication and leadership skills

Strong project and grant management abilities

Job description

Bradley County School District is seeking a Project Director for the GEAR UP program to provide overall oversight and leadership for a 12-month grant. The role coordinates services across Bradley, Meigs, and Polk Counties, launches advisory and enrichment programs, and ensures compliance with federal grant terms.

The position requires a Master's degree in a related field and at least five years of relevant experience with school-based programs, plus strong communication and leadership skills.