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School Program Director Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

YMCA

School-Age Program Director

Rockford, IL · On-site

$43K - $50K/yr

YOUR IMPACT Under the guidance of the Vice President of Youth Development, the School-Age Program Director is responsible for organizing, delivering, and ensuring the quality of YMCA's Before and ...

The Salvation Army

Program Director

Chicago, IL

$72K/yr

Program Director LOCATION/DEPT: Adele and Robert Stern Red Shield Community Center PEOPLE MANAGER ... Programming for pre-school, youth, teen, adult, senior, families, special needs. * Offer programs ...

Restoration Builders, Inc.

Program Director

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

About Us: The Roofing School of Illinois and Public Adjuster Academy are specialized educational ... We seek a dynamic Program Director to lead our educational programs at The Roofing School of ...

LifeWise Academy

Program Director

Flanagan, IL · On-site

What You'll Do As program director, you'll help lead and grow your community's LifeWise program by ... Develop positive partnerships with school leaders, parents, churches and community members * Serve ...

LifeWise Academy

Program Director

Normal, IL · On-site

What You'll Do As program director, you'll help lead and grow your community's LifeWise program by ... Develop positive partnerships with school leaders, parents, churches and community members * Serve ...

LifeWise Academy

Program Director

Yorkville, IL · On-site

What You'll Do As program director, you'll help lead and grow your community's LifeWise program by ... Develop positive partnerships with school leaders, parents, churches and community members * Serve ...

LifeWise Academy

Program Director

Decatur, IL · On-site

What You'll Do As program director, you'll help lead and grow your community's LifeWise program by ... Develop positive partnerships with school leaders, parents, churches and community members * Serve ...

ReNEW Schools

21st CCLC Program Director

Macomb, IL · On-site

$85 - $115/hr

The Full-Time 21st CCLC Program Director will oversee all aspects of the 21st CCLC program ... Oversee daily operations of the 21st CCLC afterschool and summer programs. * Supervise program ...

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All JobsSchool Program JobsSchool Program Director JobsSchool Program Director Jobs in Illinois

School Program Director information

See Illinois salary details

$21.8K

$64.9K

$119.7K

How much do school program director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for school program director in Illinois is $64,882.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $77,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a school program director do?

A School Program Director oversees the development, implementation, and management of educational programs within a school or school district. They work to ensure that curriculum standards are met, supervise program staff, and coordinate with teachers, parents, and administrators. Their responsibilities also include evaluating program effectiveness, managing budgets, and seeking ways to improve student outcomes through innovative educational strategies. The role often requires strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.

What are some common challenges faced by school program directors when managing multiple programs simultaneously?

School Program Directors often juggle several programs at once, each with distinct goals, resources, and stakeholders. A common challenge is balancing competing priorities while ensuring all programs maintain high standards and compliance with school policies. Effective time management, delegation, and strong communication with staff are essential to prevent burnout and to foster program success. Directors frequently collaborate with teachers, parents, and community partners, making adaptability and problem-solving skills particularly valuable in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a school program director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a School Program Director, you need expertise in educational leadership, curriculum development, and staff management, often supported by an advanced degree in education or administration. Familiarity with learning management systems, data analysis tools, and state education regulations is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, organizational abilities, and effective communication set exceptional School Program Directors apart. These competencies are crucial for ensuring program quality, fostering student achievement, and maintaining compliance with educational standards.

What is the difference between School Program Director vs School Coordinator?

AspectSchool Program DirectorSchool Coordinator
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in education or related field; experience in program managementHigh school diploma or equivalent; some experience in school activities
Work EnvironmentAdministrative offices, school settings, program planningClassrooms, school events, student activities
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, nonprofit organizationsSchools, districts, educational programs
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on managing and overseeing programsFocuses on supporting daily school activities

The main difference is that a School Program Director oversees the planning and management of educational programs, requiring more advanced credentials and strategic responsibilities. In contrast, a School Coordinator typically supports daily school activities and student programs, often with less formal education requirements.

What are the most commonly searched types of School Program jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of School Program jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to School Program Director jobs in Illinois?

For School Program Director jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching School Program Director jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for School Program Director jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for School Program Director jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most School Program Director job openings:

School Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various School Program Director job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,882 per year, or $31.2 per hour.

Part-time Afterschool Program Director at Douglass

CHAMPAIGN PARK DISTRICT

Champaign, IL • On-site

$18.25/hr

Part-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Champaign Park District - Part-Time 2, Non-Exempt
Hours not to exceed 19 hours per week on average

About the Job

TheAfterschool Program Director is the heartbeat of our fall and spring afterschool programs. This role leads fun, engaging, and well-run programs for children and teens, creating a safe and welcoming space where kids can learn, play, and unwind after the school day. From arts and crafts to games, enrichment activities, and field trips, this position blends leadership, creativity, and organization to deliver programs families trust and kids love.

Summary of Responsibilities

  • Plan, organize, and oversee daily afterschool program operations
  • Lead engaging activities such as arts and crafts, games, outdoor play, cooking, homework support, enrichment projects, and field trips
  • Supervise, train, schedule, and support part-time staff and volunteers
  • Ensure safety by enforcing procedures, emergency protocols, and risk management practices
  • Build positive relationships with participants, families, staff, and the community
  • Maintain program records including attendance, reports, schedules, and payroll documentation
  • Manage program supplies, inventory, and budgets according to Park District guidelines
  • Maintain clean, organized, and welcoming program spaces
  • Communicate regularly with the Youth and Teen Program Coordinator on operations and needs

Why Work With Us?

If you enjoy working with kids, leading a team, and making afternoons meaningful, this role delivers. You'll gain hands-on leadership experience, sharpen your communication and problem-solving skills, and play a direct role in shaping positive experiences for youth in our community. It's fast-paced, rewarding, and never boring.

Qualifications

  • Must be at least 18 years of age (21 preferred)
  • Experience working with children in a structured recreational or educational setting
  • Strong communication and relationship-building skills
  • Ability to exercise sound judgment and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work independently and stay motivated
  • Ability to meet the physical demands of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation

Benefits & Perks for Seasonal Employees

Seasonal employees with the Champaign Park District have access to:

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • 20% discount on qualified room and shelter/pavilion rentals for employees and immediate household members
  • Free drink & popcorn at the Virginia Theatre when showing your Park District badge
  • Recognition Programs:
    • Posi Bucks appreciation rewards
    • Impact Awards ($50 award for approved nominations)
    • Keeva Keeling Outstanding Employee of the Year recognition
  • Cell phone carrier discounts
  • AFLAC group-rate voluntary benefit options
  • SPOT Pet Insurance group discount

About the Champaign Park District

The Champaign Park District is dedicated to enhancing community quality of life through parks, programs, and services that are accessible, inclusive, and enriching. We believe in creating welcoming spaces, supporting staff growth, and delivering meaningful recreational opportunities for all ages.

Who This Position Is Ideal For

This role is perfect for someone who loves working with kids, enjoys leading others, and thrives in an energetic, hands-on environment. If you're organized, dependable, creative, and ready to make afternoons count, this is a great opportunity to step into a leadership role with real impact.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
The Champaign Park District is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status. We are committed to providing a workplace that is free from discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employees are required to comply with our equal opportunity and harassment laws, policies, and procedures.

  • Must be at least 18years of age, 21 years of age preferred
  • Ability to work effectively with children in a structured recreational setting.
  • Strong personal communication skills both verbaland communication
  • Ability toestablishand maintain effective working relationships with Park District staff,participates, parents,and thepublic.
  • Interest working with children
  • Demonstratedproblem-solvingskillsand soundjudgment.
  • Ability to work independently and remainself-motivated.
  • Ability to meet the physical and environmental demands of the position, with or without reasonableaccommodation.

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