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School Program Manager Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

School Program Coordintor

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$41K - $48K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We have an exciting opportunity for a School Program Coordinator working in our State-of-the-Art ... Manage the School in conformance with all state and local regulations and The Gardner School ...

Program Manager

Aurora, IL · On-site

$72K/yr

Program Manager Location: Family Focus - Aurora Supervisor: Assistant Center Director Department ... Develop and maintain strategic partnerships with community organizations, schools, healthcare ...

Program Manager

Aurora, IL · On-site

$72K/hr

Program Manager Location: Family Focus - Aurora Supervisor: Assistant Center Director Department ... Develop and maintain strategic partnerships with community organizations, schools, healthcare ...

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Showing results 1-20

School Program Manager information

See Elgin, IL salary details

$38.1K

$106.2K

$155.2K

How much do school program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for school program manager in Elgin, IL is $106,226.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,600.00 and $131,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a school program manager do?

A School Program Manager oversees the planning, implementation, and evaluation of educational programs within a school or school district. Their responsibilities include coordinating curriculum development, managing budgets, supervising staff, and ensuring programs meet educational standards and goals. They often collaborate with teachers, administrators, and community partners to enhance student learning experiences. Additionally, they monitor program effectiveness and make adjustments as needed to improve outcomes.

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

To thrive as a School Program Manager, you need strong organizational, leadership, and project management skills, often supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in education or administration. Familiarity with educational management systems, budgeting tools, and data analysis software is typically required. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills help you collaborate effectively with staff, students, and stakeholders. These skills are essential for successfully designing, implementing, and evaluating school programs that support student achievement and organizational goals.

What are the most common challenges faced by school program managers when coordinating multiple initiatives across grade levels?

School Program Managers often juggle various initiatives, such as academic programs, extracurricular activities, and special events, across different grade levels. One common challenge is ensuring effective communication and alignment among teachers, administrators, and support staff to maintain consistency and avoid scheduling conflicts. Additionally, managing limited resources and adapting programs to meet the diverse needs of students can require creative problem-solving. Successful Program Managers prioritize organization, foster collaboration, and regularly evaluate program outcomes to address these challenges and drive positive results.

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

AspectSchool Program ManagerSchool Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's degree in education, administration, or related field; experience in program managementHigh school diploma or equivalent; experience in school activities or administration
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple programs, collaborates with staff and administratorsSupports daily school operations, assists teachers and staff
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, nonprofits, government agenciesSchools, districts, educational programs
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for leadership and management roles in schoolsCompared for operational support and coordination roles

The School Program Manager focuses on overseeing and managing educational programs, requiring management skills and relevant credentials. In contrast, the School Coordinator handles daily operational support within schools, often with less formal education requirements. Both roles are vital in educational settings but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What is a school program manager at a school?

A school program manager oversees the development, implementation, and evaluation of educational programs within a school or district. They coordinate activities, manage staff, and ensure programs meet educational standards and goals, often requiring strong organizational and communication skills. This role may involve budgeting, reporting, and collaboration with teachers, administrators, and community partners.

What are the most commonly searched types of School Program jobs in Elgin, IL?

The most popular types of School Program jobs in Elgin, IL are:

What cities near Elgin, IL are hiring for School Program Manager jobs?

Cities near Elgin, IL with the most School Program Manager job openings:

School Program Coordintor

The Gardner School

Northbrook, IL • On-site

$41K - $48K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


The Gardner School rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 24 rated private schools and tutoring


Job description

It's fun to work in a company where people truly BELIEVE in what they're doing!
We're committed to bringing passion and customer focus to the business.

We have an exciting opportunity for a School Program Coordinator working in our State-of-the-Art facility! At The Gardner School of Northbrook, you will be part of a caring, fun, dynamic group of professional teachers that thrive on providing exceptional educational experiences. You will work in an environment that values your contributions and provides you with the resources you need to apply high-quality, developmentally appropriate programs. Your experience and expertise are highly valued, your contributions are recognized, and your professional goals are supported. If you have a desire and passion to make a difference in the lives of children and parents, The Gardner School is the place for you!

What You'll Do:

  • Manage the School in conformance with all state and local regulations and The Gardner School policies and procedures.

  • Administrative duties to include opening and closing the school in the absence of the Executive School Director and Assistant School Director.

  • Prepare and forward reports in accordance with The Gardner School policies and procedures.

  • Assists in tracking all inquiries and converts inquiries into parent tours of the school.

  • Maintains professional and positive relationships and communication with parents and staff.

  • Maintains confidentiality of school directives, curriculum, and software.

  • Utilized to provide additional classroom support during high volume times.

  • Lead and teach children through all activities of the day, assuring they have an enjoyable, well-rounded educational experience in the absences of teaching staff.

  • Ensures that classroom and playground equipment is maintained in good repair.

  • Enforces all safety rules and regulations with staff for the safety of the children and parents

  • Notifies parents via telephone immediately should their child suffer any type of injury. Ensureproper documentation of accident/incident and obtain necessary signatures.

  • Dispense medication to children that have a medication authorization form.

  • Keep fully apprised of all activities in the school.

  • Always represent the best interests of the children and The Gardner School.

  • Other duties as assigned.

What We Offer:

  • Competitive Pay: The starting salary range for this position is $41,200-$48,500 annually. Actual pay will depend on factors such as relevant experience, skills, and education.

  • Comprehensive Benefits: Health, dental, and vision insurance; paid time off; 401(k) with company match; childcare tuition discount; paid holidays; and professional development opportunities

  • Career Growth: Ongoing professional development and training, opportunities for advancement within our growing organization, and a supportive, mission-driven culture.

Minimum Qualifications

Education

  • Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Education Administration, or a related field.

  • Must meet state licensing requirements for Director qualifications (education and experience)

Experience

  • Minimum 2 year of experience in a licensed child development program, with at least 1 year as a teacher or supervising a childcare program. (required)

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Strong leadership, organization, and communication skills

  • Knowledge of state childcare licensing standards and early learning best practices

  • Ability to manage staff scheduling, budgets, and daily school operations effectively

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and administrative systems

  • Ability to maintain confidentiality, professionalism, and positive relationships with families and staff

  • Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills with consistent, reliable attendance

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to lift and carry children up to 60 lbs

  • Ability to operate computers, phones, and standard office/classroom equipment

  • Must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, including active engagement throughout the school environment

Why You'll Love The Gardner School

  • Beautiful, state-of-the-art preschool environment

  • Supportive leadership team focused on professional growth

  • Comprehensive benefits package: Health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, 401(k) with company match, childcare tuition discount, and paid holidays

  • Continuous training and career advancement opportunities

The Gardner School extends equal employment opportunities to qualified applicants and employees on an equal basis regardless of an individual's age, race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other reason prohibited by law.


What The Gardner School employees say

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