Head of Operations

Location: Nashville, TN

Reports to: Director, Day Programs

2026 Job Description:    

The Head of Operations is a member of the seasonal SAVY administrative team. The Head of Operations manages the daily operations of the SAVY program to ensure a quality experience for students, Instructors, and Classroom Assistants. This position is responsible for a variety of pre-program and in-program objectives including but not limited to: coordinating and distributing reports to staff related to SAVY student needs, communicating with Classroom Assistants concerning schedules and policy compliance, drafting daily emails to families and staff, helping oversee the SAVY inbox, managing early dismissals and late arrivals, and serving as the primary contact for families during the SAVY day.   

Perks:   

Your role includes:   

• Making a difference through investing in the lives of gifted and high-achieving young scholars.   
• Working on the campus of a nationally-known institution.    
• Adding a unique experience to your resume.   
• Joining a team of dedicated staff who are passionate about developing talent in gifted and advanced students.   
• Enjoying competitive compensation with lunch provided.
   

SAVY Team Expectations:   

• Serve as a role model for all student participants and colleagues.  
• Thrive in a fast-paced, demanding work environment that requires continuing flexibility, a positive and caring attitude, and collaboration.   
• Adhere to PTY’s policies related to confidentiality. 
• Be highly mature and able to assist with the management of a summer academic program for elementary students.    
• Engage willingly as a team player with humor, enthusiasm, and a compassionate understanding of K-8 students.    
• Demonstrate exceptional maturity and character.    
• Possess cultural sensitivity awareness and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. 
• Embody a strong team player ethic and sense of humor.   
• Uphold and exemplify community values, regulations, and expectations.  
• Successfully pass the Vanderbilt University criminal background check and online training for working with minors. Agree to adhere to all duties before, during, and after the program as outlined in the staff materials. 
• Agree to adhere to all duties before, during, and after the program as outlined in the staff materials.
• Must be able to traverse distances of at least one mile, including stairs, with or without accommodation.
• Must be able to lift and/or maneuver at least 40 lbs. with or without accommodation.

Head of Operations Expectations: 

Within their wide array of duties and responsibilities, the Head of Operations is expected to:   

• Implement efficient operations and workflow strategies in a rapidly changing and fast-paced program.   
• Help maintain a vibrant SAVY office that serves as the central hub for scheduling, record keeping, documentation of confidential information and program logistics for the program.  
• Be able to successfully and positively communicate with individuals of all ages, experiences, and roles.  
• Provide effective communication and resource distribution across program staff.   
• Enthusiastically adapt and pivot as needed to ensure optimal, engaging, and safe student experiences.  
• Assist with various administrative duties and processes to ensure smooth operations.  
• Support arrival, dismissal, and lunch supervision.  
• Assist with maintaining compliance-related protocols.   
• Perform other related duties as assigned. 

Qualifications:    

The ideal candidate will:    

• Possess a bachelor’s degree. Master’s degree preferred. 
• Be a graduate student or a professional.  
• Teaching or other experiences in an educational setting is preferred.  
• (Candidates both internal and external to Vanderbilt are welcome to express interest.)  
• Have experience communicating with parents or key stakeholders of an organization.    
• Have experience with managing schedules and data management, with strong attention to detail. 

Compensation:  

$22.00/hr   

*This position is eligible for the returning PTY seasonal staff incentive.
**This position is eligible for the Master’s Degree/ Educator or Counselor Certification incentive.

Program Dates and Times:*   

• Positions start date is negotiable.
• 15-20 hours per week in May preferred.
• 40 hours per week June 1 to July 31. 
• Onsite Training: TBD in June 
• Session 1: June 8-12 (1st – 6th grade)
• Session 2: June 16-19 (1st – 6th grade)
• Session 3: June 22-26 (1st – 8th grade)
• Session 4: June 29-July 3 (1st-8th grade)
• Session 5: July 6-10 (1st – 8th grade)
• Session 6: July 13-17 (1st – 8th grade)
• Session 7: July 20-24 (1st – 8th grade)
• The standard shift is 7:30AM to 5:00PM Monday-Friday. 

*dates subject to change  

SAVY Head of Communications

Location: Nashville, TN

Reports to: Director, Day Programs

2026 Job Description:   

The Head of Communications is a member of the seasonal SAVY administrative team. The Head of Communications manages the daily internal and external communication of the SAVY program to ensure a quality experience for students, Instructors, and Classroom Assistants. This position is responsible for a variety of pre-program and in-program objectives including but not limited to: drafting daily emails to families and staff, helping oversee the SAVY inbox, managing the SAVY blog, and serving as the primary contact for families during the SAVY day.

Perks:

Your role includes:

• Making a difference through investing in the lives of gifted and high-achieving young scholars.
• Working on the campus of a nationally-known institution.
• Adding a unique experience to your resume.
• Joining a team of dedicated staff who are passionate about developing talent in gifted and advanced students.
• Enjoying competitive compensation with lunch provided

Team Expectations:

• Serve as a role model for all student participants and colleagues.
• Thrive in a fast-paced, demanding work environment that requires continuing flexibility, a positive and caring attitude, and collaboration.
• Adhere to PTY’s policies related to confidentiality.
• Be highly mature and able to assist with the management of a summer academic program for elementary students.
• Engage willingly as a team player with humor, enthusiasm, and a compassionate understanding of K-8 students.
• Demonstrate exceptional maturity and character.
• Possess cultural sensitivity awareness and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Embody a strong team player ethic and sense of humor.
• Uphold and exemplify community values, regulations, and expectations.
• Successfully pass the Vanderbilt University criminal background check and online training for working with minors. Agree to adhere to all duties before, during, and after the program as outlined in the staff materials.
• Agree to adhere to all duties before, during, and after the program as outlined in the staff materials.
• Must be able to traverse distances of at least one mile, including stairs, with or without accommodation.
• Must be able to lift and/or maneuver at least 40 lbs. with or without accommodation.

Head of Communications Expectations:

Within their wide array of duties and responsibilities, the Head of Communications is expected to:

• Help maintain a vibrant SAVY office that serves as the central hub for scheduling, record keeping, documentation of confidential information and logistics for the program.
• Be able to successfully and positively communicate with individuals of all ages, experiences, and roles.
• Provide effective internal and external communication.
• Enthusiastically adapt and pivot as needed to ensure optimal, engaging, and safe student experiences.
• Assist with various administrative duties and processes to ensure smooth operations.
• Support arrival, dismissal, and lunch supervision as needed.
• Assist with maintaining compliance-related protocols.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

The ideal candidate will:

• Possess a bachelor’s degree. Master’s degree preferred.
• Be a graduate student or a professional.
• Experiences in an educational setting is preferred.
• (Candidates both internal and external to Vanderbilt are welcome to express interest.)
• Have experience communicating with parents or key stakeholders of an organization.
• Have excellent written and verbal communication skills with strong preference for copy editing experience.

Compensation:

$22.00/hr

*This position is eligible for the returning PTY seasonal staff incentive.
**This position is eligible for the Master’s Degree/ Educator or Counselor Certification incentive.

Program Dates and Times:*

• Positions start date is negotiable.
• 5-10 hours per week in May.
• 40 hours per week June 1 to July 31. 
• Onsite Training: TBD in June 
• Session 1: June 8-12 (1st – 6th grade)
• Session 2: June 16-19 (1st – 6th grade)
• Session 3: June 22-26 (1st – 8th grade)
• Session 4: June 29-July 3 (1st-8th grade)
• Session 5: July 6-10 (1st – 8th grade)
• Session 6: July 13-17 (1st – 8th grade)
• Session 7: July 20-24 (1st – 8th grade)
• The standard summer shift is 8:00AM to 4:30PM Monday-Friday. 

*dates subject to change

SAVY Program Assistant

Location: Nashville, TN

Reports to: Director, Day Programs

2026 Job Description:    

The Program Assistant position is a pivotal position within the SAVY office staff, responsible for supporting the Day Programs Director and SAVY Heads to manage a variety of tasks essential to SAVY operations. The work of the Program Assistant ensures that day-to-day operations run smoothly for all SAVY staff, students, and families.  

Individual tasks and assignments will vary according to strength, schedule, and interest of the Program Assistant, but general responsibilities include establishing a friendly and professional point of contact in the SAVY office, preparing documents for upcoming sessions, supporting the SAVY administrative team with supporting classroom needs, providing supervision during key program times, supporting late arrivals and early dismissals, and assisting Heads on specific projects.  

Perks:   

Your summer includes:   

• Making a difference through investing in the lives of gifted and high-achieving young scholars.   
• Working on the campus of a nationally-known institution.    
• Adding a unique experience to your resume.   
• Joining a team of dedicated staff who are passionate about developing talent in gifted and advanced students.    
• Enjoying competitive compensation with lunch provided.
   

Team Expectations:   

• Serve as a role model for all student participants and colleagues.  
• Thrive in a fast-paced, demanding work environment that requires continuing flexibility, a positive and caring attitude, and collaboration.   
• Adhere to PTY’s policies related to confidentiality. 
• Be highly mature and able to assist with the management of a summer academic program for elementary students.    
• Engage willingly as a team player with humor, enthusiasm, and a compassionate understanding of K-8 students.    
• Demonstrate exceptional maturity and character.    
• Possess cultural sensitivity awareness and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. 
• Embody a strong team player ethic and sense of humor.   
• Uphold and exemplify community values, regulations, and expectations.  
• Successfully pass the Vanderbilt University criminal background check and online training for working with minors.  
• Agree to adhere to all duties before, during, and after the program as outlined in the staff materials. 
• Must be able to traverse distances of at least one mile, including stairs, with or without accommodation.
• Must be able to lift and/or maneuver at least 40 lbs. with or without accommodation.

Program Assistant Expectations:   

Within their wide array of duties and responsibilities, SAVY Program Assistant is expected to:   

• Support the efficient operations and workflow strategies in a rapidly changing and fast-paced program.    
• Help support a vibrant SAVY office that serves as the central hub for scheduling, record keeping, documentation of confidential information and program logistics.    
• Support SAVY as a classroom assistant substitute, as needed.
• Enthusiastically adapt and pivot as needed to ensure optimal, engaging, and safe student experiences.   
• Collaborate effectively with other members of the SAVY team, supporting Heads when specific needs arise.   
• Assist with various administrative duties and processes to ensure smooth operations.   
• Support with arrival, dismissal, and lunch supervision.  
• Perform other related duties as assigned.  

Qualifications:    

The ideal candidate will:    

• Be a current undergraduate, graduate student, or professional (Individuals both internal and external to Vanderbilt are welcome to express interest).   
• Have experience working within an office or customer-service intensive role.    
• Have experience communicating with parents or key stakeholders of an organization.    
• Be able to successfully and positively communicate with individuals of all ages, experiences, and roles.       

Compensation:  

$16.00/hr  

*This position is eligible for the returning PTY seasonal staff incentive.
**This position is eligible for the Master’s Degree/ Educator or Counselor Certification incentive.

Program Dates and Times:*   

• Positions start date is negotiable. 
• 35-40 hours per week.
• Onsite Training: TBD in June 
• SAVY Sessions operating June-July 
• Session 1: June 8-12 (1st – 6th grade)
• Session 2: June 16-19 (1st – 6th grade)
• Session 3: June 22-26 (1st – 8th grade)
• Session 4: June 29-July 3 (1st-8th grade)
• Session 5: July 6-10 (1st – 8th grade)
• Session 6: July 13-17 (1st – 8th grade)
• Session 7: July 20-24 (1st – 8th grade)
• The standard summer shift is 8:00AM to 4:30PM Monday-Friday. 

*dates subject to change  

Location: Nashville, TN

Reports to: Director, Day Programs

2026 Job Description:    

The Student Support Specialist is a member of the seasonal SAVY administrative team. The person in this role works to establish and communicate an environment of support to students, serving as a resource to students who may need that extra level of guidance when dealing with a social emotional or behavioral issue, including group dynamics. The Student Support Specialist collaborates with the Head of Teaching and Learning and Head of Staff Development to empower Instructors and Classroom Assistants to engage with their students in respectful, meaningful and thoughtful ways, making sure all staff exhibit empathy and compassion in their conversations with parents, students, and staff. The Student Support Specialist will: handle unexpected student issues such as illness, behavior, and violations of stated community code of conduct; be highly mature; engage willingly as a team player with humor, enthusiasm and compassion; and enthusiastically adapt and pivot as needed to ensure optimal, engaging, and safe experiences for all students.  

Perks:   

Your summer includes:   

• Making a difference through investing in the lives of gifted and high-achieving young scholars.   
• Working on the campus of a nationally-known institution.    
• Adding a unique experience to your resume.   
• Joining a team of dedicated staff who are passionate about developing talent in gifted and advanced students.    
• Enjoying competitive compensation with lunch provided.  

Team Expectations:   

• Serve as a role model for all student participants and colleagues.  
• Thrive in a fast-paced, demanding work environment that requires continuing flexibility, a positive and caring attitude, and collaboration.   
• Adhere to PTY’s policies related to confidentiality. 
• Be highly mature and able to assist with the management of a summer academic program for elementary students.    
• Engage willingly as a team player with humor, enthusiasm, and a compassionate understanding of K-8 students.    
• Demonstrate exceptional maturity and character.    
• Possess cultural sensitivity awareness and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. 
• Embody a strong team player ethic and sense of humor.   
• Uphold and exemplify community values, regulations, and expectations.  
• Successfully pass the Vanderbilt University criminal background check and online training for working with minors. Agree to adhere to all duties before, during, and after the program as outlined in the staff materials. 
• Agree to adhere to all duties before, during, and after the program as outlined in the staff materials.
• Must be able to traverse distances of at least one mile, including stairs, with or without accommodation.
• Must be able to lift and/or maneuver at least 40 lbs. with or without accommodation.

Student Support Specialists Expectations:   

Within their wide array of duties and responsibilities, the Student Support Specialist is expected to: 

• Establish and communicate an environment of support to staff and students.    
• Serve as a resource to students who may need an extra level of guidance when dealing with any of the following issues: personal, academic, relational, family, or group dynamics.    
• Serve as a resource to staff on how to properly support students in their groups/classes.   
• Facilitate communication across the program when student issues come to the surface, helping to bring necessary parties together in service of the student.    
• Empower and coach Classroom Assistants to engage with their students in respectful, meaningful, and thoughtful ways.    
• Embody empathy and compassion in conversations with parents, students, and staff.     
• Handle unexpected student issues, including but not limited to: student illness, violations of stated community code of conduct, etc.    
• Enthusiastically adapt and pivot as needed to ensure optimal, engaging, and safe student experiences.     
• Support and counsel students struggling with anxiety, homesickness, making friends, adapting to the program, etc.   
• Create opportunities to boost and support staff morale.   
• Engage with students during lunch.  
• Check in with students regularly who were referred to Student Support.  
• Work closely with other leadership team members to address problems in a timely manner.    
• Support with arrival, dismissal, and lunch supervision  
• Exemplify SAVY’s purpose, identify and communicate the cornerstones of a respectful academic community, and serve as a role model for all staff and students.    
• Uphold and enforce all program and University rules as outlined in staff and student handbooks.     
• Perform other related duties as assigned.  

Qualifications:    

The ideal candidate will:     

• Possess a bachelor’s degree, be a graduate student or a professional.  
• Experience in teaching or school counseling is preferred. (Candidates both internal and external to Vanderbilt are welcome to express interest.).   
• Have experience communicating with parents or key stakeholders of an organization.    
• Be able to successfully and positively communicate with individuals of all ages, experiences, and roles.   
• Experience with gifted students, 2e students, and students with academic and/or behavioral support plans preferred.  

Compensation:  

$22.00/hr  

*This position is eligible for the returning PTY seasonal staff incentive.

Program Dates and Times:*   

• Positions start date is negotiable.
• 5-10 hours per week in May preferred.
• 35-40 hours per week June 1 to July 24. 
• Onsite Training: TBD in June 
• Session 1: June 8-12 (1st – 6th grade)
• Session 2: June 16-19 (1st – 6th grade)
• Session 3: June 22-26 (1st – 8th grade)
• Session 4: June 29-July 3 (1st-8th grade)
• Session 5: July 6-10 (1st – 8th grade)
• Session 6: July 13-17 (1st – 8th grade)
• Session 7: July 20-24 (1st – 8th grade)
• The standard summer shift is 8:00AM to 4:30PM, Monday-Friday. 

*dates subject to change  

SAVY Head of Family Engagement (Program Coordinator, Part Time)

Location: Nashville, TN

Reports to: Director, Day Programs

2026 Job Description:    

The SAVY Head of Family Engagement is a key member of the SAVY team. This position is responsible for a variety of pre-program and in-program family-facing objectives including, but not limited to, communicating with families concerning program registration, student support needs, medications, and required forms.;  The Head of Family Engagement will co-manage the SAVY inbox and serve as the initial contact for families during enrollment season; this could be via email communication or phone call to support basic questions families have.  Additionally, the Head of Family Engagement will oversee the planning and facilitating of family engagement offerings such as SAVY Parent Group and other family related engagement opportunities. 

Perks:   

Your role includes:   

• Investing in the lives of gifted and high-achieving young scholars and their families.   
• Working on the campus of a nationally-known institution. 
• Adding a unique experience to your resume.    
• Joining a dynamic team of dedicated staff who are passionate about developing talent in gifted and advanced students.    
• Enjoying competitive compensation

Team Expectations:   

• Serve as a role model for all student participants and colleagues.   
• Thrive in a fast-paced, demanding work environment that requires continuing flexibility, collaboration, and a positive and adaptive attitude.    
• Adhere to PTY’s policies related to confidentiality.  
• Be highly mature and able to assist with the management of a summer academic program for elementary students.     
• Engage willingly as a team player with humor, enthusiasm, and a compassionate understanding of K-8 students.     
• Demonstrate exceptional maturity and character.     
• Possess cultural sensitivity awareness and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.  
• Embody a strong team player ethic and sense of humor.    
• Uphold and exemplify community values, regulations, and expectations.   
• Successfully pass the Vanderbilt University criminal background check and online training for working with minors. Agree to adhere to all duties before, during, and after the program as outlined in the staff materials.  
• Agree to adhere to all duties before, during, and after the program as outlined in the staff materials. 
• Must be able to traverse distances of at least one mile, including stairs, with or without accommodation. 
• Must be able to lift and/or maneuver at least 40 lbs. with or without accommodation.

SAVY Head of Family Engagement Expectations: 

Within their wide array of duties and responsibilities, the Family Support Specialist is expected to:   

• Communicate with and support SAVY families regarding registration paperwork, medication procedures, and programmatic updates and information.   
• In collaboration with the Day Programs Director, assist with determining family-focused events and offerings.  
• Facilitate Family engagement offerings such as SAVY Parent Group and any other offerings determined with Day Programs Director. 
• In collaboration with the Head of Student Support, plan and conduct parent partnership calls for students with support plans. 
• Implement efficient workflow strategies in a rapidly changing and fast-paced program.    
• Help maintain a vibrant SAVY  office that serves as the central hub for scheduling, record keeping, documentation of confidential information and program logistics for the program.   
• Positively engage and communicate with individuals of all ages, experiences, and roles including program staff, students, and SAVY families in a supportive manner. 
• Enthusiastically adapt and pivot as needed to ensure optimal, engaging, and safe student and family experiences.   
• Assist with various administrative duties and processes to ensure smooth operations while student programming is in session.   
• Support arrival, dismissal, and lunch supervision while student programming is in session. 
• Assist with maintaining compliance-related protocols.    
• Perform other SAVY related duties as assigned.  

Qualifications:    

The ideal candidate will:    

• Possess a bachelor’s degree. Master’s degree is preferred.  
• Teaching, school counseling, or other experiences in an educational setting is preferred.   
• Have experience communicating with parents or key stakeholders of an organization.     
• Have experience with data management, with strong attention to detail.  
• Be able to successfully and positively communicate with individuals of all ages, experiences, and roles.    
• Experience with gifted students,  twice exceptional students, and students with academic and/or behavioral support plans preferred.  

Compensation:  

$26.00/hr   

*This position is eligible for the returning PTY seasonal staff incentive.

Program Dates and Times:

• Anticipated 16-20 hours per week in Fall/Spring, during non-program weeks.
• Anticipated 20-30 hours per week in April and May preferred.  
• Anticipated 40 hours per week June-July.  
• Onsite Training: TBD in June 
• Session 1: June 8-12 (1st – 6th grade)
• Session 2: June 16-19 (1st – 6th grade)
• Session 3: June 22-26 (1st – 8th grade)
• Session 4: June 29-July 3 (1st-8th grade)
• Session 5: July 6-10 (1st – 8th grade)
• Session 6: July 13-17 (1st – 8th grade)
• Session 7: July 20-24 (1st – 8th grade)
• The standard summer shift is 8:00AM to 5:00PM Monday-Friday. 

*dates subject to change  

Academic Classroom Assistant

Location: Nashville, TN

Reports to: Director, Day Programs

2026 Job Description:    

Summer Academy at Vanderbilt for the Young (SAVY) is a summer day program for academically advanced students in rising 1-8 grades. Students take classes taught by master teachers and/or content experts. The SAVY classroom assistant is responsible for supporting students and instructors each week. 

Perks: 

Your experience includes: 

• Making a difference through investing in the lives of gifted and high achieving young scholars. 
• Working on the campus of a nationally-known institution. 
• Adding a unique experience to your resume. 
• Joining a team of dedicated staff who are passionate about developing talent in gifted and high ability students. 
• Competitive compensation. 

Team Expectations:   

• Serve as a role model for all student participants and colleagues.  
• Thrive in a fast-paced, demanding work environment that requires continuing flexibility, a positive and caring attitude, and collaboration.   
• Adhere to PTY’s policies related to confidentiality. 
• Engage willingly as a team player with humor, enthusiasm, and a compassionate understanding of K-8 students.    
• Demonstrate exceptional maturity and character.    
• Possess cultural sensitivity awareness and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. 
• Embody a strong team player ethic and sense of humor.   
• Uphold and exemplify community values, regulations, and expectations.  
• Successfully pass the Vanderbilt University criminal background check and online training for working with minors.  
• Agree to adhere to all duties before, during, and after the program as outlined in the staff materials. 
• Must be able to traverse distances of at least one mile, including stairs, with or without accommodation.
• Must be able to lift and/or maneuver at least 40 lbs. with or without accommodation.

Classroom Assistant Expectations: 

Within their wide array of duties and responsibilities, SAVY Classroom Assistants manage four domains of responsibility: 

1. Program Support — Supervise students, support accountability of students and instructors for program schedules and policies, assist SAVY arrival and dismissal, adhere to and support compliance of program and university policies including the protection of minors, guidelines and regulations, and provide additional support as determined by administrative staff. 
2. Logistical Support — Set up for classroom activities and other duties necessary to the smooth operations of the classroom. Assist with time management and class schedule, support and lead student transitions around campus, and assist with classroom materials as needed. 
3. Classroom Support — Assist with classroom management and engagement and support small group monitoring. Classroom Assistants may also coordinate meetings with instructors prior to the program to help prepare for the class. 
4. Student Support — Liaise with appropriate staff about students’ socio-emotional and academic concerns as well as classroom needs.  

Qualifications: 

• Qualified applicants must have experience and interest in working with children.  
• Applicants both internal and external to Vanderbilt are welcome to express interest.  
• Teaching experience and/or experience working with academically gifted students is preferred. 

Compensation: 

$16.00/hr 

*This position is eligible for the returning PTY seasonal staff incentive.
**This position is eligible for the Master’s Degree/ Educator or Counselor Certification incentive.

Program Dates and Times:*   

• Positions start date is negotiable.
• 35-40 hours per week June 1 to July 24. 
• Onsite Training: TBD in June 
• Session 1: June 8-12 (1st – 6th grade)
• Session 2: June 16-19 (1st – 6th grade)
• Session 3: June 22-26 (1st – 8th grade)
• Session 4: June 29-July 3 (1st-8th grade)
• Session 5: July 6-10 (1st – 8th grade)
• Session 6: July 13-17 (1st – 8th grade)
• Session 7: July 20-24 (1st – 8th grade)
• The standard hours are Monday from approximately 7:30AM to 4:15PM, Tuesday-Friday from approximately 8:15 AM to 4:30 PM.

* Classroom assistants may work multiple sessions. Preference will be given to applicants who are available for multiple weeks in the summer. Classroom assistants should be available a minimum of three sessions. 

SAVY Organized Recreational Activities Classroom Assistant

Location: Nashville, TN

Reports to: Director, Day Programs

Job Description:

Summer Academy at Vanderbilt for the Young (SAVY) is a summer day program for academically advanced students in rising 1-8 grades. Students take classes taught by master teachers and/or content experts. The SAVY classroom assistant is responsible for supporting students and instructors each week. Students take one course for a week, from approximately 8:30AM to 3:30PM. Organized Recreational Activities (ORA) provide a 25-30 minute PE/structured recess non-academic time for students in each course each day. The ORA Classroom Assistant will assist the ORA Instructor each day. 

Perks: 

Your experience includes: 

• Making a difference through investing in the lives of gifted and high achieving young scholars. 
• Working on the campus of a nationally-known institution. 
• Adding a unique experience to your resume. 
• Joining a team of dedicated staff who are passionate about developing talent in gifted and high ability students. 
• Competitive compensation. 

Team Expectations:   

• Serve as a role model for all student participants and colleagues.  
• Thrive in a fast-paced, demanding work environment that requires continuing flexibility, a positive and caring attitude, and collaboration.   
• Adhere to PTY’s policies related to confidentiality. 
• Engage willingly as a team player with humor, enthusiasm, and a compassionate understanding of K-8 students.    
• Demonstrate exceptional maturity and character.    
• Possess cultural sensitivity awareness and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. 
• Embody a strong team player ethic and sense of humor.   
• Uphold and exemplify community values, regulations, and expectations.  
• Successfully pass the Vanderbilt University criminal background check and online training for working with minors.  
• Agree to adhere to all duties before, during, and after the program as outlined in the staff materials. 
• Must be able to traverse distances of at least one mile, including stairs, with or without accommodation.
• Must be able to lift and/or maneuver at least 40 lbs. with or without accommodation.

ORA Classroom Assistant Expectations: 

Within their wide array of duties and responsibilities, SAVY ORA Classroom Assistants manage four domains of responsibility: 

1. Program Support — Supervise students, support accountability of students and instructors for program schedules and policies, assist SAVY arrival and dismissal, adhere to and support compliance of program and university policies including the protection of minors, guidelines and regulations, and provide additional support as determined by administrative staff. 
2. Logistical Support — Set up for classroom activities and other duties necessary to the smooth operations of the classroom. Assist with time management and class schedule, support and lead student transitions around campus, and assist with classroom materials as needed. 
3. Classroom Support — Assist with classroom management and engagement and support small group monitoring. Classroom Assistants may also coordinate meetings with instructors prior to the program to help prepare for the class. 
4. Student Support — Liaise with appropriate staff about students’ socio-emotional and academic concerns as well as classroom needs.  

Qualifications: 

• Qualified applicants must have experience and interest in working with children.  
• Applicants both internal and external to Vanderbilt are welcome to express interest.  
• Recreational or physical education experience experience is preferred. 

Compensation: 

$16.00/hr 

*This position is eligible for the returning PTY seasonal staff incentive.
**This position is eligible for the Master’s Degree/ Educator or Counselor Certification incentive.

Program Dates and Times:*   

• Positions start date is negotiable. 
• 35-40 hours per week June 1 to July 24. 
• Onsite Training: TBD in June 
• Session 1: June 8-12 (1st – 6th grade)
• Session 2: June 16-19 (1st – 6th grade)
• Session 3: June 22-26 (1st – 8th grade)
• Session 4: June 29-July 3 (1st-8th grade)
• Session 5: July 6-10 (1st – 8th grade)
• Session 6: July 13-17 (1st – 8th grade)
• Session 7: July 20-24 (1st – 8th grade)
• The standard hours are Monday from approximately 7:30AM to 4:15PM, Tuesday-Friday from approximately 8:15 AM to 4:30 PM.

* Classroom assistants may work multiple sessions. Preference will be given to applicants who are available for the entirety of the summer. Classroom assistants should be available a minimum of three sessions. Dates subject to change. 

Classroom Instructor, SAVY (K-6) or Career Connections at SAVY (7-8)

To learn more information about teaching for our Day Programs, or about proposing a course for PTY for one of our many programs, please visit https://pty.vanderbilt.edu/teaching-opportunities-through-pty/

PTY Instructional Coach, Elementary School Programs (Multiple Positions Available)

Location: Nashville, TN

Reports to: Director of Academics

2026 Job Description:    

The PTY Instructional Coach, Elementary works with the PTY Director of Academics to help ensure exceptional academic experiences within PTY courses designed for elementary school students. The Instructional Coach, Elementary and is responsible for a variety of pre-program, during program, and post-program academic support, including but not limited to overseeing a team of lesson plan readers/reviewers pre-program, reviewing lesson plans/syllabi, meeting with instructors to provide guidance and support, observing instruction and providing feedback as an instructional coach, modeling appropriate pedagogy, overseeing the review of student rubrics for elementary school courses. The Instructional Coach, Elementary will, at times, collaborate with the Director of Academics and members of the SAVY administrative team to help address instructional response for students with academic concerns.

This is a non-residential position that requires flexible weekend work during the weekends of program operation. 

Perks:  

Your summer includes:  

• Making a difference through investing in the lives of gifted and high achieving young scholars.   
• Working on the campus of a nationally known institution.    
• Adding a unique experience to your resume.   
• Joining a team of dedicated staff who are passionate about developing talent in gifted and advanced students.    
• Competitive compensation with lunch provided.  

 Expectations:  

Within their wide array of duties and responsibilities, the Instructional Coach, Elementary School is expected to: 

• Serve as a role model for all student participants and colleagues.   
• Along with the Director of Academics, provide written and oral feedback to instructors pre-program to support lesson planning and during the program to support implementation  
• Implement an effective observation schedule and feedback system for instructors teaching K-8 courses
• Collect data during instructor observations that can be analyzed.   
• Oversee a team of lesson plan readers/reviewers for elementary school courses to ensure research-based feedback is provided in a timely and targeted way at the course development stage.
• Timely review of all student rubrics post-program.  
• Collaborate, when necessary, with the Academic Materials Managers to ensure that instructors’ materials, technology, and lab equipment needs are met.  
• Uphold and exemplify community values, regulations, and expectations.   
• Assist with various administrative duties and processes to ensure smooth operations.   
• Discuss academic concerns with instructors and Director of Academics with a professional and solutions-focused approach.
• Inform the Director of Academics when instructional or safety concerns arise in classrooms.
• Thrive in a fast-paced, demanding work environment that requires continuing flexibility, a positive and caring attitude, and collaboration.   
• Adhere to PTY’s policies related to confidentiality.  
• Perform other related duties as assigned.
• Must be able to traverse distances of at least one mile, including stairs, with or without accommodation.
• Must be able to lift and/or maneuver at least 40 lbs. with or without accommodation.

Qualifications:   

The ideal candidate will have the following characteristics:    

• A minimum of a bachelor’s degree with an M.Ed. preferred.   
• A teaching or education background is required. (Candidates both internal and external to Vanderbilt are welcome to express interest.
• Demonstrate exceptional maturity and character.    
• Experience with coaching educators preferred.  
• Possess cultural sensitivity awareness and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.  
• Have experience communicating with parents or key stakeholders of an organization.    
• Embody a strong team player ethic and sense of humor.   
• Be able to successfully and positively communicate with individuals of all ages, experiences, and roles.   
• Successfully pass the Vanderbilt University criminal background check and online training for working with minors. 
• Agree to adhere to all duties before, during, and after the program as outlined in the staff materials. 

Compensation: 

$26.00/hr

*This position is eligible for the returning PTY seasonal staff incentive.

Program Dates and Times:*  

• Pre-session remote work: April and May (approximately 10-15 hrs/wk; flexible schedule)  
• Approximately 40 hrs/week after June 1 
• Session 1: June 8-12 (1st – 6th grade)
• Session 2: June 16-19 (1st – 6th grade)
• Session 3: June 22-26 (1st – 8th grade)
• Session 4: June 29-July 3 (1st-8th grade)
• Session 5: July 6-10 (1st – 8th grade)
• Session 6: July 13-17 (1st – 8th grade)
• Session 7: July 20-24 (1st – 8th grade)
• The standard hours are Monday from approximately 7:30AM to 4:15PM, Tuesday-Friday from approximately 8:15 AM to 4:30 PM. 

*Weekend and evening hours may be required during the program and will vary based on program needs.

PTY Instructional Coach, Middle School Programs

Location: Nashville, TN
Reports to: PTY Director of Academics

Job Description:  

The PTY Instructional Coach, Middle School works with the PTY Director of Academics to help ensure exceptional academic experiences within PTY programs that support middle school students. The PTY Instructional Coach, Middle School is responsible for a variety of pre-program, during program, and post-program academic support, including but not limited to reviewing lesson plans/syllabi pre-program, meeting with instructors to provide guidance and support, observing instruction and providing feedback as an instructional coach, modeling appropriate pedagogy, and overseeing the review of student rubrics for high school courses. The Instructional Coach, Middle School, will, at times, collaborate with the Director of Academics and appropriate members of the program administrative team to help address instructional response for students with academic concerns. 

This is a non-residential position that requires flexible weekend work during the weekends of program operation. 

Perks: 

Your summer includes: 

• Making a difference through investing in the lives of gifted and high achieving young scholars.  
• Working on the campus of a nationally known institution.   
• Adding a unique experience to your resume.  
• Joining a team of dedicated staff who are passionate about developing talent in gifted and advanced students.   
• Competitive compensation with lunch provided.  

Expectations: 

Within their wide array of duties and responsibilities, the Instructional Coach, High School Programs is expected to:

• Serve as a role model for all student participants and colleagues.   
• Along with the Director of Academics, provide written and oral feedback to instructors pre-program to support lesson planning and during the program to support implementation  
• Implement an effective observation schedule and feedback system for instructors teaching middle school courses
• Collect data during instructor observations that can be analyzed.   
• Oversee a team of lesson plan readers/reviewers for elementary school courses to ensure research-based feedback is provided in a timely and targeted way at the course development stage.
• Timely review of all student rubrics for middle school courses post-program.  
• Collaborate, when necessary, with the Academic Materials Managers to ensure that instructors’ materials, technology, and lab equipment needs are met.  
• Uphold and exemplify community values, regulations, and expectations.   
• Assist with various administrative duties and processes to ensure smooth operations.   
• Discuss academic concerns with instructors and Director of Academics with a professional and solutions-focused approach.
• Inform the Director of Academics when instructional or safety concerns arise in classrooms.
• Thrive in a fast-paced, demanding work environment that requires continuing flexibility, a positive and caring attitude, and collaboration.   
• Adhere to PTY’s policies related to confidentiality.  
• Perform other related duties as assigned.
• Must be able to traverse distances of at least one mile, including stairs, with or without accommodation.
• Must be able to lift and/or maneuver at least 40 lbs. with or without accommodation.

Qualifications:  

The ideal candidate will have the following characteristics:   

• A minimum of a bachelor’s degree with an M.Ed. preferred.  
• A teaching or education background is required. (Candidates both internal and external to Vanderbilt are welcome to express interest.) 
• A background in a STEM field is preferred, but not required.  
• Demonstrate exceptional maturity and character.   
• Experience with coaching educators preferred. 
• Possess cultural sensitivity awareness and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. 
• Have experience communicating with parents or key stakeholders of an organization.   
• Embody a strong team player ethic and sense of humor.  
• Be able to successfully and positively communicate with individuals of all ages, experiences, and roles.  
• Successfully pass the Vanderbilt University criminal background check and online training for working with minors.
• Agree to adhere to all duties before, during, and after the program as outlined in the staff materials. 

Compensation:

$26.00/hr

*This position is eligible for the returning PTY seasonal staff incentive.

Program Dates and Times:* 

• Pre-session remote work: April and May (approximately 10-15 hrs/wk; flexible schedule)  
• Approximately 40 hrs/week after June 1 
• High School On-Campus courses operating June and July 
  • VSA/SAVY Session 1: June 8-14, 2026
  • VSA/SAVY Session 2: June 15-19, 2026
  • Session 3: June 22-26, 2026
  • Session 4: June 29-July 3, 2026
  • Session 5: July 6-10, 2026
  • Session 6: July 13-17, 2026
  • Session 6: July 20-24, 2026
  • While hours may shift slightly based on work needs, the standard shift is 7:40AM to 4:30PM Monday-Friday when programs are in session.

*Weekend and evening hours may be required during the program and will vary based on program needs

*dates subject to change

Academic Materials Manager

Location: Nashville, TN
Reports to: Director of Academics, Day Programs

2026 Job Description:    

The Academic Materials Manager, Elementary and Middle School position is responsible for overseeing the materials needed for instruction across all PTY day programs. The Academic Materials Manager, Elementary and Middle School supervises the Academic Materials Program Assistant, Elementary and Middle School Programs and oversees materials acquisition and distribution to ensure that instructors of elementary and middle school day program courses have the materials they need to offer students a positive classroom experience. This position is responsible for a variety of pre-program and in-program objectives including but not limited to academic material ordering and organization, course materials communication with instructors and other academic staff, and scheduling and distribution of PTY technology and lab equipment to classrooms.   

This is a non-residential position that requires flexible weekend work during the weekends of program operation. 

Perks:   

Your summer includes:   

• Making a difference through investing in the lives of gifted and high-achieving young scholars.   
• Working on the campus of a nationally known institution.    
• Adding a unique experience to your resume.   
• Joining a team of dedicated staff who are passionate about developing talent in gifted and advanced students.    
• Enjoying competitive compensation with lunch provided.  

Expectations:   

Within their wide array of duties and responsibilities, the Academic Materials Manager is expected to:   

• Serve as a role model for all student participants and colleagues.   
• Implement efficient operations and workflow strategies in a rapidly changing and fast-paced academic program.    
• Order, organize, and coordinate distribution of academic materials for elementary and middle school courses.  
• Support the Director of Academics in managing systems related to materials requests for elementary and middle school courses.   
• Monitor the academic budget guidelines when purchasing items.   
• Oversee the delivery of course materials to classrooms prior to and during elementary and middle school program sessions
• Oversee and collaborate with Academic Materials Program Assistant, Elementary and Middle School to ensure that all instructors’ technology and lab equipment requests are honored. 
  
• Communicate effectively with PTY Director of Academics and Instructional Coach(es) to ensure that instructors’ materials, technology, and lab equipment requests are met.  
• Uphold and exemplify community values, regulations, and expectations.   
• Enthusiastically adapt and pivot as needed to ensure optimal, engaging, and safe student experiences.   
• Assist with various administrative duties and processes to ensure smooth operations.   
• Assist with compliance related protocol and issues.   
• Thrive in a fast-paced, demanding work environment that requires continuing flexibility, a positive and caring attitude, and collaboration.   
• Adhere to PTY’s policies related to confidentiality.  
• Perform other related duties as assigned. 
• Must be able to traverse distances of at least one mile, including stairs, with or without accommodation.
• Must be able to lift and/or maneuver at least 40 lbs. with or without accommodation.

Qualifications:    

The ideal candidate will:    

• Possess a bachelor’s degree, be a graduate student or a professional.   
• An education background is preferred but not required (Candidates both internal and external to Vanderbilt are welcome to express interest.)  
• Demonstrate exceptional maturity and character.    
• Possess cultural sensitivity awareness and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.  
• Have experience communicating with key stakeholders of an organization.    
• Embody a strong team player ethic and sense of humor.   
• Be able to successfully and positively communicate with individuals of all ages, experiences, and roles.   
• Successfully pass the Vanderbilt University criminal background check and online training for working with minors.  
• Agree to adhere to all duties before, during, and after the program as outlined in the staff materials. 

Compensation:  

$22.00/hr  

*This position is eligible for the returning PTY seasonal staff incentive.
**This position is eligible for the Master’s Degree/ Educator or Counselor Certification incentive.

Program Dates and Times:*  

• On-site Training: TBD  
• Pre-session work in office:  
  • April (approximately 10-15hrs/wk)  
  • May (approximately 20 hrs/wk)   
• Approximately 40 hrs/week after June 1 
• Session 1: June 8-12 (1st – 6th grade)
• Session 2: June 16-19 (1st – 6th grade)
• Session 3: June 22-26 (1st – 8th grade)
• Session 4: June 29-July 3 (1st-8th grade)
• Session 5: July 6-10 (1st – 8th grade)
• Session 6: July 13-17 (1st – 8th grade)
• Session 7: July 20-24 (1st – 8th grade)
• The standard hours are Monday from approximately 7:30AM to 4:15PM, Tuesday-Friday from approximately 8:15 AM to 4:30 PM.
• Weekend hours may be required during the program and will vary based on program need.

Academic Program Assistant

Location: Nashville, TN
Reports to: Director of Academics

2026 Job Description:    

Job Description:   

The PTY Academic Materials Program Assistant, Elementary and Middle School position is responsible for supporting the Academics Materials Manager, Elementary and Middle School in the organization and distribution of materials needed for instruction across all day program courses. This position is responsible for a variety of pre-program and in-program objectives including but not limited to supporting academic material ordering and organization, delivering materials to instructor classrooms, communicating with instructors and other academic staff concerning needs related to materials, and helping with scheduling and distribution of PTY technology and lab equipment to classrooms.

This is a non-residential position that requires flexible weekend work during the weekends of program operation. 

Perks:  

Your summer includes:   

• Making a difference through investing in the lives of gifted and high achieving young scholars.  
• Working on the campus of a nationally known institution.    
• Adding a unique experience to your resume.   
• Joining a team of dedicated staff who are passionate about developing talent in gifted students.    
• Competitive compensation with lunch provided while in session. 

Expectations:  

Within their wide array of duties and responsibilities, Academic Materials Program Assistant, Elementary and Middle School is expected to:   

• Be a role model for all student participants and colleagues.   
• Support the implementation of efficient operations and workflow strategies in a rapidly changing and fast-paced academic program.    
• Assist in organizing and distribution of all materials for elementary and middle school courses.  
• Support the delivery of course materials to classrooms prior to and during elementary and middle school course sessions.
• Support the distribution of technology and lab equipment to elementary and middle school program classrooms.  
• Uphold and exemplify community values, regulations, and expectations.   
• Enthusiastically adapt and pivot as needed to ensure optimal, engaging, and safe student experiences.   
• Assist with various administrative duties and processes to ensure smooth operations.   
• Assist with compliance related protocol and issues.   
• Thrive in a fast-paced, demanding work environment that requires continuing flexibility, a positive and caring attitude, and collaboration.   
• Adhere to PTY’s policies related to confidentiality.  
• Perform other related duties as assigned. 
• Must be able to traverse distances of at least one mile, including stairs, with or without accommodation.
• Must be able to lift and/or maneuver at least 40 lbs. with or without accommodation.

Qualifications:   

The ideal candidate will:    

• Be a current undergraduate or graduate student. (Students both internal and external to Vanderbilt are welcome to express interest).  
• Demonstrate exceptional maturity and character.    
• Have experience working within an office or in a customer service intensive role.    
• Have experience communicating with key stakeholders of an organization.    
• Embody a strong team player ethic and sense of humor.   
• Be able to successfully and positively communicate with individuals of all ages, experiences, and roles.   
• Successfully pass the Vanderbilt University criminal background check and online training for working with minors.  
• Agree to adhere to all duties before, during, and after the program as outlined in the staff materials.

Compensation: 

$16.00/hr 

*This position is eligible for the returning PTY seasonal staff incentive.
**This position is eligible for the Master’s Degree/ Educator or Counselor Certification incentive.

Program Dates and Times:*  

• Pre-session work in office:  
  • May – Approximately 20 hrs/wk  
    
• Approximately 40 hrs/week after June 1 
• Session 1: June 8-12 (1st – 6th grade)
• Session 2: June 16-19 (1st – 6th grade)
• Session 3: June 22-26 (1st – 8th grade)
• Session 4: June 29-July 3 (1st-8th grade)
• Session 5: July 6-10 (1st – 8th grade)
• Session 6: July 13-17 (1st – 8th grade)
• Session 7: July 20-24 (1st – 8th grade)
• While hours may shift slightly based on work needs, the standard summer shift is 8:00AM to 4:30PM Monday-Friday.  
• Weekend hours may be required during the program and will vary based on program need.

*dates subject to change