Pre-K-12 Partnerships Coordinator

Penn State University•University Park, IL

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Center for the Performing Arts in the College of Arts & Architecture is seeking applicants for a Part-Time pre-K-12 Partnerships Coordinator. This position is the CPA's primary connector to schools, teachers, and young audiences. The person in this role will spend meaningful time out in the community — visiting classrooms, libraries, and schools, building relationships with educators, and helping teachers see CPA as an ongoing curricular partner rather than an occasional field trip destination. On the inside, they support the curation and development of Student Matinee (STM) programming, help build curricular materials that give performances lasting meaning in the classroom, and contribute to expanding CPA's performing arts reach within programs like Galaxy: The Arts-in-Education program of Central Intermediate Unit 10. This role is ideal for someone with a background in arts education, teaching, or community engagement, who is energized by relationship-building and genuinely passionate about connecting young people to the performing arts.

Requirements

Background in K–12 arts education, classroom teaching, or community arts engagement strongly preferred
Genuine enthusiasm for building relationships with educators and young people
Strong written and verbal communication skills — comfortable presenting to teachers and school groups
Organized and self-directed; able to manage an active schedule of school visits and follow-up independently
Familiarity with K–12 curriculum frameworks and arts integration practices a plus
Valid driver's license required; ability to travel to schools and community sites in the region
Bilingual candidates encouraged to apply

Responsibilities

Conduct regular visits to K–12 schools, public libraries, and community sites to build relationships with educators, librarians, and program coordinators
Identify and cultivate educator champions — teachers and school leaders who can amplify CPA's reach and advocate for arts integration across their institutions
Represent CPA at teacher-facing events, curriculum nights, and professional learning days.
Assist the Assistant Director of Programming to curate and develop STM experiences that are meaningfully connected to classroom curricula
Develop and maintain teacher preparation and post-show materials (study guides, discussion frameworks, extension activities) that help educators maximize the impact of STM attendance
Communicate with teachers before and after STM events to gather feedback, share resources, and strengthen ongoing relationships
Track teacher and school participation data to support planning, reporting, and grant documentation
Maintain an active network of classroom teachers, arts educators, and school administrators across the region
Communicate regularly with teacher contacts about upcoming programming, education resources, and partnership opportunities
Help develop teacher-specific events and professional learning experiences that position CPA as a resource for arts-integrated instruction
Support coordination with Penn State pre-service teaching faculty to connect student teachers with CPA programming and resources