Consultancy: Gender & Education Landscape Analysis (United States)

World Change Starts with Educated Children®

IMPORTANT

All applicants must be legally eligible to work in the country where the position is located. Room to Read is not able to provide sponsorship.

Consultancy:

Gender & Education Landscape Analysis (United States)

Location:

United States (remote)

Duration:

May 29 - August 31, 2026 (~3 months)

Type:

Consultancy (fixed fee) Position Overview Room to Read is seeking a consultant or research organization to conduct a qualitative landscape analysis on gender and education programming in the United States. This work will inform potential program development and partnerships by identifying: Key education barriers affecting girls, boys, and gender-diverse youth Organizations currently working in this space Gaps and opportunities where Room to Read can add value The analysis will include a national scan, with deeper focus on Florida and Appalachia, where Room to Read currently operates. Scope of Work The consultant will: Conduct a national landscape analysis of gender and education trends Analyze how barriers differ across age groups, geographies, and student populations Examine challenges affecting rural, low-income, and first-generation students Map organizations and initiatives working in gender and education Review existing program models related to youth development and life skills Identify gaps and unmet needs in current programming Develop actionable recommendations for Room to Read's U.S. strategy Methodology The work will include a mix of: Desk research (reports, policies, data) Key informant interviews Stakeholder mapping (nonprofits, education orgs, youth development groups) Review of relevant program models Deliverables Research plan and methodology Summary of preliminary findings Stakeholder mapping and partner landscape Draft analysis and insights Final report (20-25 pages) Presentation with actionable recommendations Qualifications Advanced degree in education, public policy, gender studies, or related field Demonstrated experience conducting landscape analyses or education sector research Strong knowledge of gender-related education issues in the United States Experience with qualitative research methods (literature review, interviews) Understanding of gender-responsive and inclusive research approaches Experience working with nonprofits, education systems, or youth programs Ability to synthesize complex information into clear, actionable insights Strong written communication skills (report writing required) Proven ability to work independently and manage multiple inputs Experience producing strategy-oriented recommendations (not just analysis) How to Apply Please submit: CV or organizational profile Cover letter Proposed methodology and timeline Proposed budget Child Protection Principles Room to Read is committed to the education and welfare of children and protecting them from abuse and exploitation Room to Read has zero tolerance for child abuse and exploitation. All children have the right to be free from abuse and exploitation, including neglect, maltreatment, and physical, mental or sexual violence, injury or abuse. All children should be treated with respect and dignity. The well-being of the child is Room to Read's first priority when dealing with all identified or suspected cases of child abuse. Room to Read shall integrate child protection into all its organizational strategies, structures and work practices. Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) Principles Room to Read Representatives must create and maintain an environment that prevents sexual exploitation and sexual abuse. Room to Read has zero tolerance for adult sexual exploitation and abuse. Sexual exploitation and abuse are serious violations of fundamental human rights and will not be accepted or tolerated. All adults should be treated with respect and dignity. Room to Read implements a survivor-centered approach, putting the survivor's rights and dignity at the forefront. Survivors referred to available professional assistance (e.g. mental health counselling), upon consent. Room to Read is an equal opportunity employer committed to identifying and developing the skills and leadership of people from diverse backgrounds. Read is a child-safe organization; all personnel must adhere to Room to Read's Child Protection Policy, Child Protection Code of Conduct and Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) Policy. About Room to

Read:

Founded in 2000 on the belief that World Change Starts with Educated Children®, Room to Read envisions a world free from illiteracy and gender inequality, where all children have room to read, learn and grow - creating lasting change. Through our Literacy Portfolio, we train and coach teachers of the early grades in literacy instruction; create and publish quality books and curricular materials in local languages; and establish children's libraries filled with diverse children's books that can be enjoyed at school and home. Our Gender Equality Portfolio supports adolescents, particularly girls, in developing life skills that promote gender equality, helping them to pursue lifelong learning and make informed decisions. We support young people of all genders to overcome gender biases and build the knowledge and skills to create a gender-equal world. Room to Read collaborates with local communities, partner organizations, publishers, and governments to test and implement innovative models that can be integrated into the education system to deliver positive outcomes for children at scale. To date, Room to Read has benefited more than 50 million children in 28 countries. Learn more at www.roomtoread.org. Founded in 2000 on the belief that World Change Starts with Educated Children®, Room to Read is creating a world free from illiteracy and gender inequality through education. Thank you for considering a career with Room to Read. I was first attracted to Room to Read because of the mission to create a world free from illiteracy and gender inequality. What I have found here is the joy in working with a group of extraordinary people towards this bold goal. In my work, I aim to shape an inclusive and supportive organizational culture where everyone feels valued and respected, and where we each thrive. Our team members are our greatest asset, and I am personally committed to creating an environment that supports both personal and professional growth and empowers individuals from everywhere in the world to contribute their best. I hope you will join us in creating a better, more equal world. Cynthia Orme Chief People and Technology Officer