Youth Programs Associate - After-School & Sports

Role PROGRAM ASSOCIATE (HOURLY) — Commences August 2026 Location: Boston, MA Classification: Full-Time, Non-Exempt Reports To: Site Leader About Tenacity Since 1999, Tenacity has empowered more than 45,000 Massachusetts youth to graduate from high school and achieve post-secondary success through academic enrichment, racquet sports, fitness, and life skills development. We provide year-round programs in Boston, Worcester, and Chelsea that build literacy, critical thinking, and healthy habits while fostering supportive relationships between students and staff. Tenacity students consistently exceed local graduation and college completion rates—95% graduate from high school, and 75% pursue or complete post-secondary education, compared to 79% and 38% citywide, respectively. Recognized as a leader in in-school, after-school, and summer learning, Tenacity equips young people with the academic, social, and physical foundation to thrive both on and off the court. Job Summary The ACE Academy Program Associate supports the successful recruitment, engagement, and retention of middle school students participating in Tenacity’s after-school and summer programs. Under the leadership of the Site Leader, this role plays a key part in delivering high-quality academic, literacy, fitness, and family engagement programming designed to foster students’ personal, social, and academic growth. The Program Associate engages students in all aspects of Tenacity programming, including leading small academic or racquet-sport groups, supporting classroom push-ins, and serving as a bus chaperone. They collaborate closely with site staff to ensure consistent attendance, positive behavior, and strong family communication. The position also involves planning and facilitating special events, maintaining accurate student records, and supporting the transition of 8th-grade students and their families into high school programming. This role requires flexibility, teamwork, and a passion for youth development, as responsibilities may include occasional evening and weekend events, summer programming, and collaboration with school-day teachers and family engagement teams. Key Responsibilities Student Engagement & Retention: Under the leadership of the Site Leader, support a high rate of student retention and site attendance through the offering of consistent and engaging programming. Engage students in all aspects of Tenacity ACE programming. Support site behavior management structures and individualized student support. Under the leadership of the Literacy Lead, support academic programming by leading small groups of students. Under the leadership of the Rackets and Fitness Lead, support racquet programming by leading station activities. Program Operations & Event Coordination Based on the assigned site, serve as a bus chaperone for student transportation from programming. Participation in the planning and facilitation of Tenacity activities at the assigned site, including ceremonies, field trips, and other activities, which will involve some evenings and/or weekends. Participate in the maintenance of student enrollment and engagement records in the Tenacity data management system. Family & Community Engagement Support caregiver and family participation in Tenacity and school activities, including open houses, parent/teacher conferences, events, performances, etc. Support the families of 8th graders in the high school selection process and connect families with the College and Career Prep team working with Tenacity’s high school students. Skills and Qualifications Bachelor’s degree a plus; majors in education, social work, human development, or similar fields preferred. Ability to model a “Growth Mindset” for students, other staff, and oneself. Experience working with middle school students, ideally in a capacity that targets socio-emotional growth. Strong interpersonal, team development, organizational, and verbal/written communication skills. Experience effectively engaging with parents, students, teachers, and principals. Passion for improving the quality of education for children living in low-income, urban communities. Proficiency in Microsoft product suites. Some tennis experience a plus. Driver’s license desired. Compensation & Benefits Salary Range: $20/hour (based on experience). Tenacity offers a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, 401(k) plan, paid time off, and professional development opportunities. Equal Opportunity Statement Tenacity is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We strongly encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr