NSLI-Y Morocco Summer Program Resident Director

iEARN-USA is currently seeking a qualified Resident Director to work in Morocco on a summer language program for U.S. high school students. The program, the National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y), is focused on Arabic (MSA) language acquisition and takes place in Rabat, Morocco. 

ANTICIPATED EMPLOYMENT DATES

Mid-May 2024 – Mid-June 2024: (part-time, remote)

June 23 – June 25, 2024 (full-time, in-person pre-departure orientation in New York, NY)

June 26, 2024 – August 10, 2024 (full-time in Rabat, Morocco and New York, NY)

August 11 – August 16, 2024 (part-time, remote)

Please note that these dates are approximate and subject to change. The program may be canceled or moved to a virtual format.  

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Resident Director (RD) represents Qalam wa Lawh Center for Arabic Studies (Qalam) and iEARN-USA in their activities during the tenure of the appointment. The RD serves as a cultural and academic liaison for around 22 students (aged 15–19) during their overseas program. The RD is the primary support person for all students and is responsible for the ongoing monitoring of the safety and well-being of students. The RD must be available to students on a daily basis, support the Qalam team in observing students’ classes, and be available via phone to students in case of emergency. The RD also plays a key role in supporting participant learning and encouraging the use of the target language as much as possible.

Prior to departure, the RD will be required to attend online and/or in-person training sessions and take part as a staff member at a pre-departure orientation organized by iEARN-USA. In May, RDs will begin part-time work remotely in coordination with iEARN-USA on pre-program webinars, orientation planning, and logistical support. RDs are required to travel with their respective student groups at the beginning of their programs, and return to the U.S. with the group at the end of their programs. After the program ends, RDs may be required to stay an extra night in the gateway city to support student travelers. RDs will also complete post-program part-time work, including final reports and debriefs with iEARN-USA. This is a term position.

RDs report to iEARN-USA.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Be responsible for and available to support a group of American high school students during their program, including chaperoning students during program activities and being on-call 24/7 for emergencies;
• Lead weekly group sessions and regular individual check-ins with students to enhance language learning experience and cultural understanding;
• Advise program participants as needed on diverse issues related to their study abroad experience (including, but not limited to: language learning, host family adjustment, culture shock, program logistics, homesickness, interpersonal and group dynamics, etc.);
• Enforce iEARN, NSLI-Y, and organizational  policies, including policies related to COVID-19;
• Participate in pre-program webinars and monitor student participation in online pre-departure orientation modules;
• Co-facilitate and plan in-person student pre-departure orientation sessions;
• Review student information and other program materials to facilitate on-program support;
• Submit weekly reports, as well as final program report and individual student evaluations; 
• Assist Qalam wa Lawh with classroom observations, conducting visits to each student’s host family, and resolving potential conflicts or misunderstandings, as needed;
• Meet regularly with Qalam wa Lawh and iEARN-USA, including virtually, to share and discuss any information that would be helpful for the students, both in terms of their safety/well-being and their language development;
• Respond to participant emergencies, including but not limited to assisting participants with securing medical care and navigating local clinics and hospitals, submitting medical reports for each clinic visit within one business day, and informing and updating colleagues, as needed; 
• Manage a modest budget for program funding and its financial documentation;
• Submit weekly program highlights to iEARN-USA and collect photos and videos from students and staff to demonstrate program impact; and,
• Perform any related duties or special projects as directed by your supervisor or Qalam wa Lawh.

CAPABILITIES AND PERSONALITY TRAITS

• Exceptional drive and passion for international education; 
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, conversant to fluent Arabic language ability; experience with Darija is a plus; 
• High emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills; ability to listen and to engage a wide range of partners;
• Flexibility and willingness to work outside primary job description and traditional work hours; and,
• An appreciation for and eagerness to work with a diverse, innovative, and trailblazing youth community.

EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in Arabic, international or area studies, Education, Social Work, or related field;
• Study, work, or extensive life experience in Morocco and the United States, and with Moroccan and American culture; 
• Proven ability to work with and lead high school students;
• Demonstrated skills in academic and personal counseling or Residential Life;
• Must be able to pass a criminal background check;
• Must have a passport that is valid through at least 6 months after the program dates;
• Prior experience as a participant on a U.S. Government-sponsored exchange program is preferable, but not required.

Resident Directors must be fully vaccinated from COVID-19 in order to perform their duties. Resident Directors are also responsible for securing housing for the duration of the full-time, in-person work. 

iEARN-USA is not able to sponsor a work visa for this position.

iEARN-USA is an equal-opportunity employer that values diversity and inclusion. Interested applicants from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply for this position. iEARN-USA does not discriminate on the basis of ethnicity, race, color, national origin, age, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, or disability.