Associate Director of 6-12 Social Science and Research

Reporting to the Network Director of PK-12 Humanities, the Associate Director of 6-12 Social Science and Research is responsible for the development and implementation of DREAM’s rigorous, vertically-aligned, and culturally and historically responsive 6th-12th grade social science and research curriculum. This leader will collaborate with school-based leaders to design high-quality professional development, coach leaders and teachers on research-based pedagogy, ensure robust curriculum implementation, create assessments, and analyze data to drive continuous improvement. The ideal candidate has extensive knowledge of best practices for social science and research instruction (Social Studies, History, Civics and Government, Economics, Geography, Cultural Studies, Psychology), experience developing adult learners, a strategic and data-driven mindset, and a passion for innovation and equity.

Responsibilities

• Curriculum, Assessment, and Data Responsiveness
• Develop and design a rigorous 6-12 social science and research curriculum that fosters critical thinking, historical inquiry, civic engagement, and research skills for all students.
• Select, create, and/or adapt unit plans, assessments, and instructional materials that integrate multiple social science disciplines (e.g., history, geography, economics, civics) and emphasize evidence-based research methods.
• Collaborate with the Network Director of PK-12 Humanities and other stakeholders to plan strategic revisions and codification of the 6-12 social science and research curriculum and assessments.
• Analyze student performance data to assess curriculum effectiveness, make short- and long-term revisions, and develop action plans at the network, school, and classroom levels.
• Partner with principals, academic deans, and other key leaders to regularly review assessment data and leverage insights to refine instruction.




• Teacher & Leader Development
• Design and lead high-quality professional development that supports teachers and instructional leaders in implementing social science and research best practices.
• Conduct classroom walkthroughs and curriculum implementation reviews to support school-based teams in identifying focus areas and action steps for instructional improvement.
• Provide regular coaching and feedback to academic deans and instructional leaders, helping them build content expertise, leadership capacity, and effective coaching techniques.
• Facilitate Intellectual Prep meetings that strengthen teachers’ command of research methodologies, historical thinking skills, and culturally responsive teaching practices.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in Education, Curriculum, Social Sciences, or School Administration/Leadership preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience teaching and/or leading social studies, history, or related disciplines at the middle/high school level, with demonstrated success in driving achievement for all students.
• Strong knowledge of instructional design, curriculum development, standards alignment, and Regents, AP, and performance-based assessment practices within social science or related fields.
• Proven track record of designing and delivering impactful professional development and coaching for educators.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze student achievement data, inform instructional strategies, and drive continuous improvement.
• Commitment to equity and inclusion, and a passion for cultivating civic engagement and critical consciousness in diverse student populations.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills, with the ability to build relationships across a range of stakeholders.
• Demonstrated alignment with DREAM’s mission, vision, and values, and a desire to make a lasting impact in the community.

Work Expectations

• The Associate Director of Social Science and Research is part of the Curriculum and Instruction Team, which works a minimum of 3 days a week on-site and up to 2 days a week remote, with some weeks requiring more days on-site.
• On-site work takes place across three DREAM campuses throughout East Harlem and the South Bronx.
• Start Date: Hiring for a June 1 (ideal) start date.

Benefits and Paid Time Off

• We offer comprehensive benefits including:
• Flexible Medical Health Plans, subsidizing the majority of costs for the employee, their spouse/domestic partner and children;
• The ability to select between a variety of medical plans according to what best suits the employee’s needs;
• Dental and vision plans;
• Disability benefits;
• Life insurance;
• Up to 12 weeks fully paid of Parental Leave; 
• Flexible spending account options;
• Pre-tax commuter benefits (parking and transit);
• Fitness and entertainment discounts;
• A variety of support through our employee assistance program (EAP);
• A 403(b) retirement plan with employer matching up to 4% after one year of employment;
• Access to a professional development fund;
• Referral bonuses;
• All full-time Network Support Team employees are eligible for approximately 48 days off throughout the year including holidays, sick days, personal days and summer Fridays;
• Benefits are subject to change.

Compensation

• DREAM offers a competitive salary commensurate with relevant experience with the potential for an annual performance-based increase. The incoming salary range for this position is $95,000 to $105,000 per year. New hires are typically brought into the organization at a salary closer to the start of the range depending on qualifications, internal equity, and the budgeted amount for the role. All staff are eligible for annual performance-based increases. Because we value staff tenure in each role, we do not currently cap salary ranges.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

At DREAM, diversity, equity, and inclusion are a matter of mission. 

From our schools to our playing fields, DREAM is committed to building a team where each individual can bring their full identity and experience to work because representation matters—it enriches our team culture, enhances our ability to innovate, and strengthens our impact in and out of the classroom. DREAM engages staff that represent and appreciate the diversity of our majority Black and Hispanic student body, while working to ensure that our practices are equitable, welcoming, and productive. We are dedicated to creating a world where youth, especially youth of color, have permission to dream—along with the tools and opportunities to make their dreams reality.

DREAM Maxims 

All Kids Can. This Kid Can.

DREAM is Family.

Fun is a Serious Value.

Teamwork Makes the DREAM Work.

Fail. Persist. Exceed.

DREAM Big.

Applying to DREAM

We know applying for a new job can be a daunting process. In addition, studies have shown that historically underrepresented individuals often only apply to roles if they meet 100% of the qualifications. We encourage all applications! You may be just the person we need. If you have any questions about your application or interview process, do not hesitate to ask your recruiter; we are here to help!

DREAM provides reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and applicable state and local laws. If accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, please contact your recruiter.