Milton Hershey School (MHS) is one of the world’s best pre-K through 12th grade private schools, where students from disadvantaged backgrounds are provided with a cost-free home and a top-notch education.  Thanks to the generosity of Milton and Catherine Hershey in 1909, the school is fully endowed today, with the resources to ensure students can thrive.  The school has prepared over 12,000 graduates to lead fulfilling and productive lives and is expanding to serve more students.

MHS is seeking a Director of Agricultural & Environmental Education (AEE) to lead the school’s exceptional Agricultural & Environmental Education Program. This program offers hands-on learning experiences for all MHS students in agriculture, horticulture, and environmental sciences, and supporting students through career tracks, clubs, and work experiences.

Program Highlights:

• Three educational centers – agricultural, horticultural, and environmental.
• A 1,200-acre agricultural enterprise featuring greenhouses, gardens, orchards, forests, fields, ponds, streams, and barns with cows, goats, sheep, rabbits, chickens, and horses.
• Two student-run businesses – a project market and an ice cream center.
• A robust college and career readiness curriculum, integrating modern agri-business and environmental practices.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee AEE programming, operations, budget, and staff, ensuring high-impact educational experiences for students.
• Develop strategic initiatives aligned with MHS’s overall mission and academic programs.
• Enhance college and career readiness by implementing industry-relevant practices and fostering partnerships with professionals.
• Collaborate across departments to create synergy between scholastics, home life, and AEE initiatives.
• Engage with industry experts to maintain state-of-the-art programming and authentic work experiences for students.

Position Details:

• Location: On-site in Hershey, PA
• Compensation: $94,000 – $125,000 (based on experience) + excellent benefits package

Qualifications:

• Education: Master’s degree in Agricultural/Environmental Education or a related field; teacher certification a plus.
• Experience: Minimum 5 years of leadership experience in an AEE-related program.
• Leadership Skills: Ability to lead, influence, collaborate, and inspire others.
• Operational Expertise: Strong skills in managing staff, budgets, and extensive operations.
• Strategic Thinking: Proven ability to drive results and develop individuals within an organization.
• Problem-Solving: Capable of managing multiple dynamic priorities and proactively resolving challenges.
• Accountability: High level of responsibility for achieving program goals and student success.
• Technology Proficiency: Comfort with relevant educational technology and digital tools.
• Integrity & Engagement: Must uphold high ethical standards and demonstrate enthusiasm for student development.