Assistant Teacher

West Cook YMCA • Oak Park, IL

9d • $18 - $20

About The Position

The Assistant Teacher is a school age youth development worker that will actively lead and engage scholars in all program components and activities of the YMCA Afterschool Signature Program. Responsible for the daily supervision of an assigned group, is a positive adult role model, and guides scholars to support academic, social emotional, and physical development. To accomplish this, assistant teachers will be required to participate in ongoing professional development and planning sessions with lead teachers and site managers on a regular scheduled basis. General program schedule follows school district calendar Monday through Friday 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm, part-time.
To learn more about the YMCA Afterschool Signature Program, please visit our program website landing page: https://www.westcookymca.org/out-school-programs-school-districts
West Cook YMCA Abuse Policy
The West Cook YMCA will not tolerate the mistreatment or abuse of youth or consumers in its programs. A youth is defined as anyone younger than 18 years of age. Any mistreatment or abuse by a staff member or volunteer will result in corrective action, up to and including termination of employment or volunteer service. All reports of suspicious or inappropriate behavior with youth or an allegation of abuse will be taken seriously.The West Cook YMCA will fully cooperate with authorities to investigate all cases of alleged abuse. All West Cook YMCA staff and volunteers shall cooperate to the fullest extent possible in any external investigation by outside authorities or internal investigation conducted by the West Cook YMCA or persons given investigative authority by the West Cook YMCA. Failure to cooperate fully may be grounds for termination.
OUR CULTURE:
Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.

Requirements

• Associates or bachelor’s degree is required, youth development field preferred
• One or more years prior experience working with school-aged children (ages 5-12)
• Experienced in implementing program activities and tasks
• Experience in group management, problem-solving and conflict resolution skills
• Flexibility, with the ability to adapt to changing circumstances
• Ability to build relationships and influence students
• Must possess oral, auditory, and written communication skills appropriate for interacting with both children and adults
• Ability to walk, stand, and sit (including on the floor) for long periods of time
• Exposure to communicable diseases and bodily fluids
• Ability to stand or sit while maintaining alertness for several hours at a time
• Position may require bending, leaning, kneeling, and walking
• Must be able to lift and carry supplies weighing up to 50 lbs
• Ability to speak concisely and effectively communicate
• Visual and auditory ability to respond to critical situations and physical ability to act swiftly in an emergency

Responsibilities

• Leads enrichment activities and engages youth in youth leadership and character development opportunities
• Facilitates a program environment that invites exploration, promotes positive play, and welcomes children
• Provides careful, attentive supervision, alert at all times
• Follows program lesson and implementation plans in a developmentally appropriate manner, meeting the individual physical, social emotional, and intellectual needs of the participants
• Serves as a positive role model, demonstrates professional behavior, and understand positive youth development approaches to the academic and social development of youth
• Maintain accurate classroom records as assigned and according to program requirements
• Demonstrates a working knowledge of YMCA mission, purpose and goals, childcare policies and YMCA standards; ensures the program meets the highest standards of excellence

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree