SONYC Afterschool Group Leader

Position : Group Leader

Department : Afterschool

Reports to : SONYC Program Director/Assistant Director

Hours : 20-25 hours per week

FLSA : Part-time

Pay rate : $19

Position Summary:

The Group Leader at MS 135 is responsible for supervising and engaging a group of participants in various activities during after school hours. This role involves planning, organizing, and leading educational and recreational activities that promote the social, emotional, and intellectual development of the participants. The Group Leader ensures a safe and positive environment where participants can learn, play, and develop skills.

Key Responsibilities:
Participant Supervision:

• Supervise and manage a group of participants during after school activities.
• Ensure the safety and well-being of all participants at all times.
• Monitor participant behavior and enforce program rules and expectations.

Activity Planning and Implementation:

• Develop and lead age-appropriate educational and recreational activities.
• Adapt activities to meet the needs and interests of the group.
• Encourage participant participation and engagement in all activities.

Positive Environment:

• Create and maintain a welcoming, inclusive, and positive atmosphere.
• Foster a supportive environment where participants feel valued and respected.
• Promote positive social interactions and teamwork among participants.

Communication:

• Communicate effectively with participants, parents, and colleagues.
• Provide feedback to parents and guardians on participant progress and behavior.
• Collaborate with other staff members to ensure program consistency.

Group Management:

• Implement effective group management strategies to maintain order.
• Address any behavioral issues promptly and appropriately.
• Encourage positive behavior and provide guidance to participants as needed.

Safety and Compliance:

• Follow all safety protocols and procedures to ensure a secure environment.
• Maintain accurate attendance records and report any incidents or accidents.
• Comply with all organizational policies, procedures, and regulations.

Mentorship and Role Modeling:

• Serve as a positive role model for participants, demonstrating respect, responsibility, and integrity.
• Mentor participants and support their social and emotional development.
• Encourage participants to explore new activities and develop new skills.

Resource Management:

• Manage and care for program materials and supplies.
• Assist in setting up and cleaning up activity spaces.

Professional Development:

• Participate in training and development opportunities to enhance skills.
• Stay informed about best practices in youth development and afterschool programming.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 1–2+years of experience working with students or youth in an educational setting (Afterschool programs, schools, summer programs, tutoring programs, etc.)
• 2+ years of experience preferred for candidates working independently with a group.
• Experience working with middle school students strongly preferred.
• Experience with lesson planning, activity facilitation, and structured group instruction.
• Ability to manage a classroom and support positive student behavior.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• High school diploma required; college coursework or degree in education or a related field preferred.
• Bilingual candidates preferred (if available).
• Must be reliable, professional, and able to commit to the full program schedule.

Working Conditions:

• Must be able to work during after school hours, typically between 1:45 PM and 7:00 PM.
• Ability to supervise and engage in physical activities with participants.
• May require extended hours during certain DOE school breaks and closures.
• May require occasional evening or weekend hours for special events.
• This is a seasonal position running from September to June.