The NRPA Directors School was established in 2008 with the purpose of providing professional knowledge and skills for park and recreation professionals being groomed for the position of director of park and recreation agencies, or those recently appointed to the position of director. In 2021, the NRPA Directors School will be held virtually. Our goal is to ensure that students receive the best possible education and experience.
Criteria for the Selection of Instructors for the NRPA Directors School
Ability to Teach
- Extensive teaching experience with positive results at the local, state, regional and national levels in workshops, conferences and/or college classroom instruction. Evaluation scores and recommendations are encouraged.
- Ability to instruct a minimum of two topics within the Directors School curriculum. Preference will be given to those with experience on the following topics:
- Building Resilient Communities
- Parks and Recreation as Partners
- Willingness to assist in evaluating team case study assignments as needed.
Education
- Advanced degree preferred.
- Participation in professional development programs at the state and national level.
- Published in professional magazines, research journals, etc., desired.
Experience
- Minimum of five (5) years in a significant leadership position, preferably at the level of director. Exceptions are made for special and technical topics.
- Demonstrated expertise in topics within the Directors School curriculum that is currently available.
- Applicants must be currently employed. Note: Instructors who retire while serving on the Directors School faculty must maintain a level of professional involvement to continue teaching. No more than 25% of instructors can be in retirement status.
- Balanced teaching staff from a geographically and demographically diverse staff, representing rural, suburban, and urban environments.
- Applicants must commit to a 5-year term
Professional Commitment
Examples:
- Certified professional, accredited agency, Gold Medal Award Finalist/Winner
- Other awards and recognitions received by the applicant or her/his agency
Potential for Program Support
- Demonstrate significant leadership experience in working cooperatively in state, regional, and national organizations.
- Willingness to assist in the promotion of the Directors School among professional colleagues and organizations.
- Willingness to assist in the promotion of the School and in the recruitment of students.
NOTES:
Application deadline is March 15, 2021.
Application Procedure
Applicants are requested to submit a letter of interest, including preferred topic(s) to instruct, and a resume that includes education, related work experience, professional speaking experience with summary evaluations, demonstrated professional commitment, potential references and other information as appropriate.
Please review the “Key Subjects Covered” section on this page to learn about Directors School topics.
Submit letter of interest and resume no later than Monday, March 15, 2021. Applications received after that date will not be considered, and notifications will be made by March 26, 2021. Important dates:
2021 NRPA Directors School Instructor Planning Meeting
April/May 2020 – Virtual
2021 NRPA Directors School
August 13-31, 2021 – Virtual