About the Role
Seeking passionate, experienced Activity Specialists with a vested interest in arts and academic integration for long-term teaching opportunities. Activity Specialists act as lead instructors in LEAP after-school programs, sharing their passion for the Arts in afterschool programs, summer programs, and special projects.
Responsibilities
- Work with program staff to prepare and develop age and skill-appropriate specialized activities (STEM, dance, visual arts, etc.) that fuse the arts and academics.
- Engage participants in developing their artistic, educational, and leadership skills.
- Work with program leaders, school administrators, and various staff to ensure the safety and security of all participants and that all policies are being complied with.
- Attend staff meetings, professional development opportunities, training sessions, and special events to enhance knowledge and skills, as required, inclusive of those outside program hours.
Requirements
- Demonstrated previous experience in trained specialty, ideally in NYC public school settings.
- 2 years of experience working with youth in a classroom or group setting.
- Experience successfully instructing youth in the arts.
- Familiarity working with Students with Disabilities and English Language Learners.
- Passion for inclusion and advocacy in the arts.
- Enjoy working with youth in a team environment.
- Must be punctual, responsible, resilient, and reliable.
- Self-motivated, highly efficient, and able to problem-solve.
- Able to pass all NYS SACC clearances and background checks inclusive of a work physical and TB.
- Pre-employment screening is required, including criminal history checks.
Skills
- Expertise in a Specialized Area: Ability to develop and deliver age-appropriate, hands-on, and interactive activities and lesson plans; Strong knowledge and passion in area of expertise.
- Child Development & Behavior Management: Understanding of child development stages and the diverse needs of students; effective classroom management and behavioral management skills; ability to implement positive reinforcement techniques and address behavioral issues with empathy and support.
- Communication & Collaboration: Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to build and maintain positive relationships with various stakeholders, departments, and staff; collaborate effectively with program leaders and other staff; clear and transparent communication.
- Planning & Organization: Ability to develop lesson plans and organize materials needed for activities.
- Problem-Solving & Decision Making Skills: Ability to identify problems and make decisions in a timely manner.
- Safety & Supervision: Prioritizing safety, knowledge of procedures, active supervision, and emergency preparedness.
- Positive Role Modeling & Mentorship: Demonstrate positive behaviors and provide guidance, support, and encouragement to others; fostering personal and professional growth.
- Professional Development & Adaptability: Commitment to continuous learning and professional development; adaptability and flexibility to meet needs of youth.
- Effective writing, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Location
- MS351K - Urban Assembly Unison School
- All five boroughs
Work Type
- Part-Time
- On-Site All Five (5) Days
- Full-time
Experience Level
- Commensurate with experience
Education Level
- College degree in the Arts or Education, or equivalent experience
Salary/Compensations
- $22-26 per hour
About the Company
- At LEAP, we don’t just build great programs — we build a great place to work.
- We are community-oriented, believing in a shared moral responsibility.
- We are creative, flexible, and open-minded.
- We are collaborative and mission driven.
- We are accountable to ourselves, each other, and our goals.
- We are committed to feedback and clear, consistent communication.
- We are champions of a compassionate and inclusive culture.
- We are supporters of self-care and the well-being of others.
- We are above all… FUN!
- At LEAP, you’ll be empowered to grow, lead, and make a lasting impact — all while being part of a community that values who you are and what you bring.
Equal Opportunity
- WE ARE AN EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
- In accordance with organizational policy, LEAP does not sponsor individuals on O-1 visas.
