About BEAM

The mission of BEAM is to create pathways for students from low-income and historically marginalized communities to become scientists, mathematicians, engineers, and computer scientists. Led by staff with these same technical backgrounds, BEAM believes that pathways to STEM careers are created through community, individual support, and access to advanced work that typically lies outside most school curricula. We work to directly support students and to transition them to other supportive enrichment programs that enable their future success.

BEAM's model provides continuous support from middle school through college graduation, including intense academic summer programs for middle school students (after 6th and 7th grade), weekend classes and mentoring, and STEM-focused support through college. Our program includes not just access to learning advanced math but also support finding and applying to other opportunities, including support with college admissions and financial aid. In addition to our academic content, bringing students into community is a key part of our mission and all of our work is designed to support that goal.

BEAM has grown from a small summer program serving 17 students in the summer of 2011 to a year-round, national program, serving 420+ students at six summer program sites and 600+ students in year-round programming in New York City and Los Angeles this school year. In addition, our BEAM National pilot program now reaches over 500 elementary-aged students in seven different states, working to create a new nationwide pathway modeled on our local work.

With our recent strategic plan, our team has committed to transforming the organization from a successful startup to a more mature and scalable organization that can drive change across the country.

ACADEMIC DIRECTOR, BEAM Summer Away

 

Join the BEAM team this summer and make a difference!  We are seeking passionate leaders to join our Summer Away summer programs in New York City or Los Angeles as Academic Directors. Our Academic Directors will oversee one of 3 BEAM Summer Away campuses this summer. You will be part of a leadership team which may include an Associate Site Director, one Director of Student Life, and one Guidance Counselor that manages a full complement of seasonal staff (8 counselors, 8 faculty, 1-2 nurses). This is more than a summer role - it’s an opportunity to lead, mentor and inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and mathematicians!

Why Join BEAM?

At BEAM, we foster a vibrant community of educators and students where students are actively engaged in problem-solving, critical thinking, and mathematical exploration. We empower students by making them the leaders of their own learning while fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. 

 

Description of Position 

As an Academic Director, you will play a crucial role in shaping the learning experience for middle school students in our Summer Away program. Working closely with the Site Director, Director of Student Life, and Guidance Counselor, you will manage a dedicated seasonal staff of 23-29 counselors and 8-9 faculty members. Your leadership will not only shape the classroom experience but also help cultivate a strong community of students and staff, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of our students. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 

Pre-Program Preparation

In the months leading up to the camp, the Academic Director will engage in comprehensive preparation to ensure a successful summer program. This preparation will set the foundation for a smooth and impactful camp experience for both students and staff.

 

Self-Preparation and Planning 

• Complete SD Management Training and Faculty Coach training with BEAM staff
• Review Site Leadership Handbook (3-5 hrs of work, self-paced)   
• Support final selection of your faculty team 
• Support Student Course Assignments
• Participate in synchronous virtual faculty training and virtual course planning retreat 

Pre-Camp Week Training and Set up 

During the week before students arrive, you will collaborate with the leadership team to finalize preparations for the summer program, set team expectations, and ensure that staff is ready and the camp is set for a successful start.

• Attend Leadership Team Retreat
• Align on leadership roles and responsibilities
• Plan team-building activities or social events