Manager, Object-Based Learning

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a long-range plan that broadens opportunities for students to learn through art with MFAH – at the Museum, in their classrooms, and in after-school settings.
• Develop pilot program at selected schools for MFAH staff to offer in-school object-based learning sessions that connect with appropriate TEKS, in collaboration with district fine arts leaders and teachers.
• Research and create opportunities to collaborate with the Glassell School of Art (Junior School) to offer School Studios – a hybrid school tour and studio experience for students.
• Work with Development on funding opportunities for this program.
• Collaborate with Manager of Studio and Gallery Programs to expand the Mobile Art Studio program, which provides engagement with students in their school classrooms.
• Research and create opportunities to connect MFAH teen programs, like hang@MFAH, with the Glassell Studio School early college program, and generally enrich MFAH teen programs with the perspectives of Glassell faculty and additional area teaching artists.
• Continue teacher professional development when practical, and research opportunities to become involved with teacher training programs at area universities.
• Supervise the work of the Object-based Learning Specialist and Object-based Learning Coordinator, as well as the OBL On-Call Educators and teaching artists.
• Work closely with the Docent Programs Manager and their direct reports, who are also part of the OBL team.
• Practice empathetic leadership with this team, providing clear and actionable guidance, while also listening to their questions with an open mind, pivoting to meet them where they are, and including them in decision-making processes.
• Oversee budgets, statistics, grant proposals and reports for the Object-based Learning area.

Requirements

• Excellent knowledge of art history and pedagogy
• Strong capacity to work constructively and respectfully with supervisor, direct reports, members of the L&I Department, and staff across the Museum
• Demonstrated excellence in writing about art for a wide range of audiences
• Demonstrated knowledge of current trends in object-based learning in a museum setting
• Excellent public speaking, verbal communication and interpersonal skills
• Able to handle many activities and projects simultaneously, with the ability to pivot effectively toward new priorities
• Must be able to work evenings, weekends, and offsite, as needed

Skills

• MA in art history, K12 education, or humanities required
• 5+ years experience in art museum education and/or K12 classroom teaching
• Substantive experience with and demonstrated excellence in teaching with works of art