Academic Support Specialist

Job Summary

The Academic Support Specialist is responsible for managing the daily operations of the Panda Center of Hope Academic Success Room and ensuring members receive consistent academic support aligned with program goals. This role focuses on creating a structured academic environment, providing tutoring support, monitoring member progress, and implementing academic enrichment activities that strengthen learning outcomes.

The Academic Support Specialist works closely with program staff, volunteers, and families to ensure members receive the support necessary to succeed academically.

Key Responsibilities

Academic Supporting & Tutoring

• Academic assistance and support with school assignments
• Providing daily homework help and tutoring for members ages 6-18
• Assisting members with reading, writing, math and other academics subjects
• Supporting members in understanding assignments rather than completing work for them.
• Facilitating small group tutoring sessions for members needing additional academic help
• Ensuring members complete homework before participating in recreational activities when appropriate

Creating a Structured Academic Environment

• Ensure a focused academic space where members can concentrate on learning
• Maintaining a quiet, organized, and welcoming study environment
• Establishing clear expectations for behavior and academic engagement
• Managing study tables and tutoring zones
• Providing age-appropriate academic resources and materials
• Creating a culture that values learning and academic responsibility

Academic Skill Development

• Provide opportunities for members to strengthen their academic skills
• Leading weekly academic skill-building workshops
• Teaching study strategies and organization skills
• Supporting literacy development through reading activities
• Facilitating math skill reinforcement sessions
• Introducing STEM-based learning activities

Academic Monitoring & Progress Tracking

• Ensure program is meeting goals by monitoring members' progress throughout the year
• Tracking member participation in the Panda Center of Hope
• Monitoring homework completion
• Conducting academic check-ins with members
• Identifying members needing additional academic support
• Maintaining basic records of tutoring sessions and academic progress

Collaboration with Staff & Volunteers

• Work closely with staff members to support members academic success
• Coordinating with program leaders assisting with homework support
• Training volunteers or staff assisting in tutoring sessions
• Communicating with supervisors about members academic needs
• Sharing academic updates during staff meetings

Family Engagement

• Informing parents about available academic support services
• Encouraging members to bring homework and school materials
• Communicating with families about academic progress when appropriate
• Providing information about educational resources

Program Enrichment & Motivation

• Keep members engaged in learning by introducing enrichment and recognition opportunities.
• Organizing academic challenges and learning activities
• Implementing reading incentives or academic recognition programs
• Celebrating member academic improvements and achievements
• Encouraging a positive attitude toward learning

Required Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• __48__ College credits or pass equivalency exam

Experience:

• 1+ years of relevant experience working with children and/or youth in an educational, recreational, or youth development setting

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ability to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively interact with youth, families, and staff
• Strong organizational skills, including the ability to manage multiple activities, maintain required documentation, and follow program schedules
• Proficiency in using basic office technology and program-related tools or systems (e.g., email, attendance tracking systems, learning platforms)
• Ability to understand and comply with organizational policies, safety procedures, and applicable federal, state, and local laws, including child safety and mandated reporting requirements

Required Qualifications

• California Driver's License
• Relevant certifications or training CPR/First Aid, Mandated Reporter training

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with children and/or youth in an educational, recreational, or youth development setting
• Experience working in a structured, youth-serving environment that requires adherence to policies, safety standards, and program guidelines
• Ability to effectively engage with youth, families, and staff in a fast-paced, interactive setting

Physical Demands

• Ability to sit, stand, and/or walk for extended periods
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds
• Ability to use a computer, phone, and standard office equipment

Work Environment

• Work is performed in a club-style environment, including open floor plans, recreational areas, and outdoor activity spaces.
• The role may involve a dynamic setting with multiple priorities, deadlines, interruptions, and regular collaboration with others.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Boys and Girls Club Whittier / Pico Rivera is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants in accordance with California law, including the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other protected status.

Boys and Girls Club Whittier / Pico Rivera will provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities and for religious beliefs or practices, in accordance with applicable law.

Disclaimer

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or qualifications. The employer reserves the right to modify job duties as business needs change, consistent with California law.