Position Overview: The Lead Instructor & Education Program Manager is a member of the CARE Team and serves as the primary architect and instructional lead for Thrive for Life’s on-site education programming. Working in close collaboration with the Director of Program Operations, this role is responsible for designing and implementing a comprehensive educational pathway for resident scholars.

The Lead Instructor will develop, facilitate, and continuously improve Thrive for Life’s on-site educational programming, including GED preparation, college readiness, workforce-oriented instruction, and social-behavioral learning groups that support residents’ successful re-entry into academic, professional, and community life.

In addition to the GED instruction, this role is responsible for coordinating and leading the scheduling and delivery of all on-site educational programming at Abraham House, including programs connected to the Cardinal’s Café initiative. The Lead Instructor will serve as the central coordinator of Thrive for Life’s on-site education schedule and ensure the consistent delivery of structured educational programming.

As a member of the CARE Team, the Lead Instructor will collaborate with program staff to integrate educational planning into each resident’s broader personal development goals and support the delivery of Thrive for Life’s holistic re-entry services.

Key Responsibilities

Education Program Design & Development

Design, coordinate, and continuously improve Thrive for Life’s on-site education program, including GED preparation, college readiness, workforce-oriented instruction, and social-behavioral learning groups
Serve as the lead instructor and primary coordinator for all on-site educational programming at Abraham House
Develop and maintain the weekly education schedule, ensuring consistent delivery of structured programming
Coordinate educational activities connected to the Cardinal’s Café initiative and other on-site workforce learning opportunities
Develop structured learning modules covering time management, conflict resolution, communication, professional conduct, and executive functioning
Align all programming with Thrive for Life’s four pillars: purpose, education, employment, and housing

Personalized Education Planning

Lead resident intake assessment educational background and identifying learning needs and develop individualized education plans for new residents
Conduct follow-up academic planning sessions to refine educational goals based on resident progress
Provide ongoing academic advising in coordination with the Director of Program Operations
Monitor progress toward educational milestones

Educational Programming & Community Offerings

Expand on-site educational offerings including OSHA certification and sewing classes
Coordinate afternoon programming groups
Schedule community educational events and workshops
Ensure programs serve both resident scholars and the broader justice-impacted community

Partnership Development

Support the development of relationships with higher education institutions and workforce training providers
Coordinate on-site workshops, certification programs, and guest-led instruction
Expand educational opportunities available to resident scholars

Employment Readiness Integration

Assess employment readiness alongside educational planning and develop complementary employment plans
Provide job search assistance including resume writing and application support
Coordinate with external employment specialists for advanced placement and track outcomes with the CARE Team

Case Management and Documentation

Maintain educational progress records in Monday.com case management system
Document educational achievements, challenges, and plan modifications
Prepare educational progress reports for Director of Program Operations review
Coordinate with CARE Team members on integrated progress planning
Ensure compliance with court-mandated educational requirements through Director of Program Operations
Participate in weekly CARE Team meetings and monthly case review meetings

Documentation & Quality Assurance

Maintain educational progress records in Monday.com and prepare progress reports for Director of Program Operations review
Ensure compliance with court-mandated educational requirements and fidelity to Thrive for Life’s educational standards
Support training of educational volunteers and participate in program evaluation initiatives

Other Duties

Carry out additional assignments from leadership to ensure smooth day-to-day operations.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Education, Adult Education, or related field required; Master's preferred
Minimum 6 years of experience in adult education or educational programming
Experience working with justice-impacted populations preferred
GED instruction experience or ability to obtain certification within 90 days
Knowledge of higher education admissions processes and workforce development systems
Strong computer skills including database management and educational software platforms
Bilingual capabilities (English/Spanish) preferred
Familiarity with Catholic education or experience working within the Roman Catholic or Jesuit educational tradition strongly preferred

Core Competencies

Educational Excellence: Ability to design and deliver effective adult learning experiences
Collaborative Partnership: Effective coordination with CARE Team and Director of Program Operations
Adaptive Programming: Flexibility to meet diverse learning styles and educational goals
Data-Driven Practice: Commitment to tracking outcomes and evidence-based programming
Community Engagement: Skill in building partnerships with educational institutions
Mission Alignment: Deep commitment to transformative education and human dignity

Thrive for Life Prison Project

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Lead Instructor & Education Program Manager