Head of Place-Based Learning & Farm Programs

Hawthorne Valley Association; Ghent (KY); On-site; USD 65,000 - 67,000; Full time

Job summary

Hawthorne Valley Association's Place Based Learning Center in Ghent, NY is seeking a Co-Director to shepherd a Waldorf-inspired, place-based program across campers and school visitors. You will share leadership of the PBLC, drive program development, and manage staff, budgeting, and facilities.

This year-round role centers on Summer Camp, coordinating seasonal staff and operations, ensuring safety and meaningful experiences for children and families, while strengthening partnerships with the

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree, preferably in education or a related field.
• Administrative or organizational leadership experience.
• Demonstrated success as an educational, youth program, or organizational leader.
• Experience managing and supporting staff, including seasonal or temporary employees.
• Experience with Summer Camp management or comparable youth-program leadership.
• Strong financial and budget management skills.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and managerial skills.
• Experience working effectively with people with a wide range of learning styles, communication styles, abilities, and support needs.
• Commitment to the principles and philosophy of Waldorf Education.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the development and implementation of educational programming for visiting school groups, Hawthorne Valley School students, and other local schools, generally serving students from 3rd through 11th grade.
• Work collaboratively to plan and operate the annual Summer Camp program, including seasonal staff recruitment, hiring, onboarding, supervision, scheduling, programming, and day-to-day coordination.
• Manage and support permanent and seasonal staff, fostering a collaborative workplace grounded in respect, honesty, trust, and clear communication.
• Oversee the PBLC’s annual budget and monitor expenses throughout the year, working with the HVA Board of Trustees as needed.
• Collaborate with HVA’s Development and Marketing teams to support fundraising, enrollment, and community outreach goals.
• Oversee the care of program animals and ensure appropriate animal care coverage year-round.
• Provide oversight of the facilities and physical spaces used by the PBLC, including maintenance, cleaning, and program readiness.
• Ensure compliance with applicable health, safety, and Columbia County Department of Health requirements for the PBLC Dining Hall and Summer Camp.
• Participate in HVA’s Inter-branch Management Group and contribute to the broader leadership and community of Hawthorne Valley.

Skills

Leadership experience

Budget management

Communication

Staff management

Waldorf education philosophy

Education

Bachelor's degree in Education

Job description

Hawthorne Valley Association's Place Based Learning Center in Ghent, NY is seeking a Co-Director to shepherd a Waldorf-inspired, place-based program across campers and school visitors. You will share leadership of the PBLC, drive program development, and manage staff, budgeting, and facilities.

This year-round role centers on Summer Camp, coordinating seasonal staff and operations, ensuring safety and meaningful experiences for children and families, while strengthening partnerships with the