Competency Works Intern

Aurora Institute is seeking a highly motivated, equity-driven, well-organized intern to support the development and programmatic design of the CompetencyWorks Initiative. The intern will work directly with the CompetencyWorks Director to research, analyze, and organize examples of school, district, and state practice and policy in the CBE field; author blog posts and other materials; perform background research and make recommendations on ways to improve our programs; participate in virtual networking events; and other activities. This is an excellent opportunity to develop new skills (such as researching, networking, and interviewing), learn about cutting-edge K-12 education policies and practices, connect with leading innovators across the field, and share information about CBE with wider audiences. This internship program is designed as a competency-based experience, where interns will have the opportunity to create a portfolio of evidence aligning to the following transferable skills and attributes: equity advocate, agentic learner, strategic thinker, and collaborator. 

Primary Responsibilities: 

A work plan will be jointly developed with a balance of collaborative projects, ongoing administrative tasks, and one or more projects that the intern will take the lead on. Typical work plan elements include:

• Support the development and management of the CompetencyWorks blog pipeline, including correspondence with blog authors, proofreading, identifying graphics, and uploading blog posts into the WordPress platform.
• Develop information sheets, guides, and other materials (such as maps) about innovative school models and key topics in CBE, which will expand the intern’s knowledge about cutting-edge policies and practices across K-12 education and provide access to Aurora’s extensive network of leaders across the field.
• Author or co-author blog posts and other resources to be shared publicly on the Aurora Institute website, as well as in internal reports, guides, and summary documents.
• Support Aurora’s network of cutting-edge leaders working to transform education by helping people network and share their stories of change and implementing best practices in CBE.
• Perform background research and work with the Aurora team and partners across the field to: solicit new ideas for engaging students; host in-person, hybrid, and virtual events focused on transforming education systems; and develop the CBE field.
• Collaborate with the Communications Team to promote CompetencyWorks content and CBE resources through social media.
• Participate in virtual events to improve networking skills, learn about education innovation, and present summaries of key takeaways to Aurora staff.
• Participate in skills workshops to develop new knowledge and demonstrate competencies in goal setting, analytical thinking, communicating, problem-solving, team building, presenting, and synthesizing information — while honing networking and interviewing skills.

Desired Knowledge, Skills, and Dispositions: 

• Highly organized, self-motivated, and detail-oriented
• Proven ability to be responsible, manage time well, and work effectively and independently – all while maintaining a strong line of communication with the CompetencyWorks director
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Keen sense of curiosity, ability to take initiative, and lifelong learning approach
• Ability to author and co-author blog posts, articles, fact sheets, and other written materials
• Be skilled at and/or willing and able to learn a variety of computer programs including WordPress, Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel), Google (Docs, Sheets, Forms), Zoom, Adobe Acrobat, and Canva. Proven interest in improving education policies and practices and a demonstrated commitment to the mission, vision, and values of Aurora
• Deep interest in and demonstrated commitment to advancing knowledge and practice related to diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Ability to work remotely

How to Apply: 

To be considered for this internship with the Aurora Institute, please send your resume, writing sample of three to five pages, list of three references, and cover letter to: 

Laurie Gagnon, CompetencyWorks Director, at lgagnon@aurora-institute.org  
 

In your cover letter, please specify the number of hours per week you are available as well as your timeframe for start and end dates. Aurora considers applicants without regard to age, race, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity and expression, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. 
 

Please specify the title of the internship in the subject line and include your last name in the title of your resume document. Candidates selected for interviews will be contacted directly starting in early August. For priority consideration please apply by Thursday, August 1, 2024.  Unfortunately, due to the volume of applications, we cannot respond to inquiries individually.