Group Leader

About DreamYard

Dream Yard's mission is to collaborate with Bronx youth, families and schools to build pathways to equity and opportunity through the arts. DreamYard Project is the largest arts provider in the Bronx, and uses project-based arts learning to ignite the transformative spirit in youth, public schools and communities. Dream Yard's school-based and out of school programs are based on 21st century learning and social justice pedagogy principles. Our work is aligned with the NYC Department of Education Blueprint for the Arts and the NY State Learning Standards, and encourages young people to pursue educational pathways toward higher learning, meaningful careers and social action. Our nationally recognized programming has grown tremendously in response to student interest and community needs. Co-Executive directors Jason Duchin and Tim Lord founded DreamYard in 1994. Since then, DreamYard has worked with more than 100 public schools and over 100,000 young people and families. DreamYard has developed a robust educational community in the Bronx - from its network of over 45 partnering public schools including the DY Preparatory High School to year-long programs at the DY Art Center.

The Position

The Empire State After School Program (ESAP) Group Leader will report to the ESAP Site Coordinator and work closely with ESAP staff (including Group Leaders, school teachers and other staff) to support the after school program at PS 32 serves approximately 110 students. This is a part time, seasonal position of 15 hours per week (which includes some Saturday programs). Program runs Monday through Friday from 2:30 - 5:30pm. Program runs through June 11th. Group Leaders will average 46 hours per month during that time. This program is funded through The New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS), in consultation with the New York State Education Department, and is planned to be a 5-year initiative. 

Primary responsibilities include working with a set group of 10-15 students to support them during various activities, including literacy (read aloud), leading hour-long sessions in a sequential curriculum that engages students, submitting written lesson plans, supporting program goals around attendance and engagement, and fostering a positive, productive environment for program participants. It is important that Group Leaders be able to act as a positive role model and mentor to the young people they work with, and to develop a positive, supportive culture and an effective way of dealing with challenges with students that may arise.

The program site is at PS 32 The Belmont School (690 E 183rd St, Bronx, NY 10458.)

Qualifications

• Previous after school experience, ideally with elementary school aged youth

• Associate's Degree or Bachelor's Degree in a related field preferred (currently working toward such a degree is also acceptable)

• Ability to collaborate effectively with other after school staff

• Excellent written and spoken communication skills

• Commitment to fostering a student-centered, safe, respectful, and productive environment for all participants, families and school partners

• All staff must pass NYC Dept. of Education fingerprinting clearance before beginning work

• All staff must be fully vaccinated to work at this site

Responsibilities

• Working to support young people's development in an active, positive way that reflects DY values and school norms

• Supporting program systems including attendance, incentives, safety procedures, special events, etc.

• Providing effective instruction for a structured activity (arts, sports, technology, etc.), including creating written lesson plans, planning projects that help youth build skills over time. Lessons plans must be turned in biweekly and reflect progression of activity and student learning; coaching will be available by on-site Educational Specialist

• Punctuality, dependability, and professional communication are highly important to successful operation of program

• Participating in staff meetings and other trainings required (all are paid at the regular hourly rate)

To Apply

Please submit (1) a resume, (2) a cover letter, and (3) contact information for at least three professional references by to the link below:

https://app.trinethire.com/companies/32874-dreamyard-project-inc/jobs/65794-group-leader

About DreamYard

DreamYard offers competitive salaries, an excellent benefits package, and generous paid time off; starting salary for this position is commensurate with experience and with similar positions Citywide.

DreamYard is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to the principles of arts education,

educational reform and social justice, and fashions its programs to specifically address the

needs of urban communities that are typically underrepresented because of race, sex, ethnicity,

and socioeconomic status. Accordingly, we welcome and encourage applications from a diverse

range of individuals. 

Bronx based and Spanish-speaking applicants are strongly encouraged to

apply. DreamYard Project, Inc. employs without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, or any other attribute not related to superior performance.

COVID19 Protocol:

Please note that proof of vaccinations will be required as a DreamYard COVID 19 health and safety protocol.

Disclaimer:

Job duties and requirements are ever changing based on the demands of the client, industry and company. This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities, but is an overall picture of job requirements, that is subject to modification at the company's discretion.