About the Role
We are seeking passionate, experienced Activity Specialists with a vested interest in arts and academic integration for long-term teaching opportunities at our partner schools. 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 compliance with all policies.
- 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
- 2 years of experience working with youth in a classroom or group setting.
- Experience successfully instructing youth in the arts.
- College degree in the Arts or Education, or equivalent experience.
- 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.
- Effective writing, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- 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.
- Ability to develop and deliver age-appropriate, hands-on, and interactive activities and lesson plans.
- Strong knowledge and passion in area of expertise.
- 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.
- 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.
- Ability to develop lesson plans and organize materials needed for activities.
- Ability to identify problems and make decisions in a timely manner.
- Prioritizing safety, knowledge of procedures, active supervision, and emergency preparedness.
- Demonstrate positive behaviors and provide guidance, support, and encouragement to others.
- Fostering personal and professional growth.
- Commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
- Adaptability and flexibility to meet the needs of youth.
Skills
- STEM
- Dance
- Visual Arts
- Arts
- Academics
- Leadership
- Child Development
- Behavior Management
- Communication
- Collaboration
- Planning
- Organization
- Problem-Solving
- Decision Making
- Safety
- Supervision
- Mentorship
- Adaptability
Location
- Arts & Letters Academy
- All five boroughs
Work Type
- Part-Time
- On-Site
- Full-time
Experience Level
- 2 years of experience working with youth
Education Level
- College degree in the Arts or Education, or equivalent experience
Salary/Compensations
- $25 per hour
About the Company
- At LEAP, we don’t just build great programs — we build a great place to work. You’ll thrive here if you’re excited to be part of a mission-driven, people-centered, and joy-filled team.
- 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.
