Summary: Being part of the Project New Yorker’s Afterschool team is a deeply rewarding job where you support children’s learning, help build strong connections, and have a positive impact on so many in your community. At PNY’s Afterschool, we will create a safe and fun space for kids to learn and grow, lead creative activities, and help them develop valuable skills. This is an opportunity to make a real difference and gain invaluable leadership and interpersonal experience.

Under the supervision of the Program Director, the Content Specialist is responsible for selecting and managing program content and curricula for up to four COMPASS programs (Elementary and Middleschool). The ideal candidate will oversee and support program implementation, provide coaching and training to program staff, and contribute to overall program quality through direct observation and supervision.

Responsibilities

• Select and manage content across all required program areas. This may also include creating new curricula and lesson plans when necessary.
• Oversee lesson plan implementation and support Activity Specialists, Group Leaders, and Inclusion Specialists to ensure effective implementation of lesson plans.
• Coach staff by providing targeted strategies and techniques to enhance lesson facilitation, classroom management, and behavior support.
• Review content being shared to ensure it is in alignment with the high-quality standards of Project New Yorker’s Afterschool Programs.
• Provide professional development for program staff to improve overall program quality.
• Support monitoring and evaluating program activities to ensure a safe, high-quality, and positive environment for youth development.
• Assist participants in actively achieving an increased comprehension and retention of specific subject material and improved academic skills in designated areas.
• Help participants develop necessary study skills for academic success.
• Identify participants having trouble; provide encouragement and alternative explanations of subject material.
• Work with the Program Director and program staff to understand the academic expectations of the program, and develop activities, assignments, practice tests, and strategies accordingly.
• Work with participants and staff to help students develop a high level of motivation in academic areas and positive attitudes toward learning and studying by acknowledging student efforts as well as their progress and achievements.
• Work cooperatively with Afterschool staff members and the program admin team.
• Promote an inclusive, welcoming, and respectful environment that embraces the diversity of all participants.
• Create and maintain a strength-based, youth-focused atmosphere that is consistent and sensitive to the needs of participants with learning, emotional, or behavioral differences.
• Maintain accurate program documentation (sign-in/sign-out forms, behavior reports, and incident reports, as appropriate).
• Understand and communicate the Project New Yorker’s core values and the goals of its Afterschool Program to participants and caregivers.
• Actively participate in training sessions, designated meetings, and special events.
• Adhere to all Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS), Department of Health (DOH), and funder standards, expectations, and regulations.