Jewish Life and Learning Specialist

Job description

Under the direction of the Senior Director of Early Learning Centers, the Jewish Life & Learning Specialist is responsible for cultivating meaningful, developmentally appropriate Jewish learning experiences across the JCC Greater Boston Early Learning Centers. This role serves as a pedagogical leader and partner to educators, supporting the integration of Jewish values and traditions into daily classroom experiences. Grounded in the Sheva framework and aligned with each center's emergent, inquiry-based approach, the Specialist works collaboratively with site leadership and teaching teams to ensure a cohesive and high-quality vision of Jewish life and learning across all locations while honoring the unique culture of each school. JCC Greater Boston is deeply committed to valuing and celebrating the uniqueness of each constituent. We welcome staff and participants from diverse backgrounds. While being proudly Jewish, we strive in every way to provide an open and welcoming setting for all, irrespective of personal practices, beliefs, or background. We are guided by JCC Greater Boston's core values - Belonging, Joyfulness, Collaboration, and Transformation. Jewish Learning & Curriculum Integration • Design and implement engaging, developmentally appropriate Jewish learning experiences aligned with the Sheva framework • Partner with Child Development Specialist, Curriculum Coordinator and educators to integrate Jewish values, traditions, and holidays into classroom learning in authentic and meaningful ways • Develop materials, resources, and provocations that reflect Jewish life and support inquiry-based learning • Support classrooms in embedding Jewish learning into emergent curriculum and daily routines • Build strong, trusting relationships with educators to support reflective practice and continuous growth Hebrew Language & Israel Engagement • Introduce and support the use of Hebrew language through music, movement, routines, and daily interactions • Integrate Israeli culture, traditions, and contemporary life into classroom experiences • Support educators in building confidence and consistency in incorporating Hebrew language naturally throughout the day Educator Coaching & Professional Learning • Provide ongoing coaching, guidance, and support to educators in Jewish learning and cultural integration • Lead professional development opportunities connected to Jewish identity, Israel, and the Sheva framework • Serve as a pedagogical resource to educators, fostering curiosity, confidence, and skill-building • Partner with site leadership to ensure consistency, alignment, and high-quality practice across centers Family & Community Engagement • Partner with site leadership to design and enhance Jewish holiday celebrations and community events • Create meaningful opportunities for families to connect to Jewish life within and beyond the classroom • Serve as a resource for families around Jewish traditions, culture, and practices Cross-Site Coordination • Ensure continuity and coherence of Jewish life and learning across Godine, Gilson, and Hingham Early Learning Centers • Collaborate with each site's leadership team to adapt programming to reflect each community while maintaining a shared vision Education and Experience: Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Jewish Education, or related field required. 2-5 years experience in early childhood education or Jewish educational settings and at least 1 year experience developing curriculum required. Experience in Jewish communal settings (JCC, synagogue, camp) preferred. Must have a valid driver's license. Skills and Abilities: • Strong knowledge of Jewish traditions, culture, and values • Demonstrated ability to design engaging, developmentally appropriate learning experiences • Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills, with the ability to build relationships across multiple stakeholders • Ability to coach and support educators in a reflective, growth-oriented way • Familiarity with Israeli culture and/or experience living, studying, or working in Israel • Proficiency or comfort with Hebrew language (spoken and/or written) • Experience with Reggio-inspired or emergent curriculum approaches This full-time, salaried position offers a competitive salary range of $58,000–$62,000 annually and a comprehensive benefits package including health and dental insurance, HRA, group life insurance/LTD, generous PTO, 403(b) retirement savings plan, supplemental vision and life insurance, EAP, and a complimentary individual JCC membership.