Group Leader at PS 95 - Brooklyn, NY

Group Leaders report to the Program Director and are responsible for the safe and attentive supervision of an assigned group of participants in a school-based after-school setting. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Provide attentive care and supervision to assigned group of students.

• Lead assigned group through daily procedures, including supervision during arrival, snack, transitions, activities, and dismissal.

• Develop an understanding of the COMPASS models, goals, and approaches to positive youth development.

• Ensure participants are properly supervised according to licensor regulations at all times.

• Take student attendance; ensure all assigned students are accounted for throughout program time.

• Lead dismissal of assigned students and ensure established site-based dismissal procedures are followed, including dismissing students only to approved adults, managing student sign-out sheets, and releasing students with permission to travel home independently according to procedure.

• Actively assist with activity facilitation for assigned group, according to Activity Specialist’s approved lesson plan.

• Support participants with individual learning and behavioral needs throughout activity periods.

• In the absence of an Activity Specialist, remain prepared to facilitate an activity for assigned group, utilizing a pre-approved lesson plan or group activity from NIA’s curriculum bank.

• Work collaboratively with co-workers in assigned classroom, including Activity Specialists, Teachers, or Youth Workers.

• Ensure assigned classroom/space is kept clean and school property is left undisturbed. Clean up fully after program activity is complete, and leave shared school spaces as they were found.

• Utilize only supplies, materials, and equipment provided directly by NIA or school items explicitly communicated as shared and available for program use.

• Maintain a professional demeanor and interact with program participants according to NIA’s employee requirements, ensuring appropriate boundaries are maintained and pre-approved behavior management techniques are used.

• Adhere to the program’s established mental health response and referral plan.

• Personally complete required Mental Health training, including Mental Health and Mental Illness, Engagement and De-Escalation Strategies, Referral and Crisis Management Protocols, and Mental Health Resources.

• Support on-site Inclusion efforts, working alongside program managers to identify and support student needs.

• Assist in ensuring that program operates safely, including maintaining safe spaces and program practices; adhering to requirements for scheduled fire drills and other safety drills; being vigilant of staff and student interaction, signs of child abuse/maltreatment/neglect, and signs of mental health emergencies.

• Respond according to established organization and site-based plan in the event of on-site injuries or medical emergencies.

• Assist in ensuring that the program operates in compliance with all DOH/licensing mandates.

• Support a strong sense of community which values respect, ensuring that all children and families feel welcome and a sense of belonging.

• Participate in ongoing professional development opportunities, including topics required to maintain organization compliance with funder and licensing requirements.

• Additional tasks as assigned to meet organizational goals

• Assist with positive behavior management in a professional manner

• Be flexible, demonstrate a positive attitude and willingness to help others

• Communicate clearly and positively with students, co-workers, and supervisors

• MUST be available, on-time, and prepared to work Monday-Friday afternoons, for three hours a day, between 2:00 PM and 6:00 PM (Exact hours vary depending upon location).

Qualifications:

• Must be 18 years or older, with at least 2 years of direct experience working with children.
• Associate’s degree preferred; high school diploma or equivalent required.
• College coursework in the areas of education, youth development, or a related field are a plus.
• Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and professionalism are required.