Drama Instructor, Camp Kaleidoscope, Summer Day Camp

JCC Greater Boston•Newton, MA

40d•$20•Onsite

About The Position

Share your love of performing arts, drama, theater and improv by teaching drama classes for children entering grades K - 3 this summer. Camp Kaleidoscope, the JCC summer day camp in Newton, draws creative campers interested in the arts, science and the outdoors. Camp Counselors and activity specialists guide campers in drama, art, science, sports, swimming and much more as they develop and build self-confidence. The energy of the camp is lively, playful and warm, as both campers and staff develop lifelong friendships. JCC Greater Boston offers free bus service for staff from Cambridge, Brookline, Jamaica Plain, West Roxbury, Wayland, Framingham, Natick, Needham, Newton and Wellesley during the summer season. What you will do each day: Each day, you’ll sparking camper creativity by leading games and contributing to a colorful and vibrant camp culture. You’ll lead hands-on art activities and help campers explore acting, drama, improv, and more! You will also work with your counselors to lead two camper performances. Beyond your specialty, you’ll also be part of the camp team: helping with transitions, supporting special events, and ensuring campers feel included and connected. Why work with us? At our camps, the best part of the day is simple: the campers. Our staff say their favorite moments are playing games, cheering campers on at swim, creating art together, and bonding over shared interests. Staff describe camp as fun, dynamic, and inclusive. Here, you’ll gain leadership skills, make lasting friendships, and create unforgettable experiences – for campers and yourself. JCC Greater Boston is deeply committed to valuing and celebrating the uniqueness of each constituent. We welcome staff and participants from diverse backgrounds. While being proudly Jewish, we strive in every way to provide an open and welcoming setting for all, irrespective of personal practices, beliefs, or background. We are guided by JCC Greater Boston’s core values - Belonging, Joyfulness, Collaboration, and Transformation - which resonate with many who do not identify as Jewish. This is what our staff say are the best parts of working at JCC Camps: Bonding with the campers The activities Free swim Leadership opportunities Making close friends with co-counselors and camp staff

Requirements

Genuine enjoyment of working with children and helping them grow
Passion and expertise in your specialty area (arts, sports, music, cooking, science, etc.)
Ability to plan and lead age-appropriate, engaging, and inclusive activities
Excellent group management skills
Strong communication, teamwork, and collaboration skills with campers and staff
Safety awareness and ability to manage risks during activities
Creativity, flexibility and patience to adapt activities for diverse camper needs
Positive, energetic attitude and commitment to fostering an inclusive, joyful camp environment
Proactive problem-solving and willingness to ask for guidance when needed
Self-starter who takes the initiative
Must be able to work well with others, building/sustaining collaborative solid relationships
Ability to manage situations effectively and diplomatically and ask for help, guidance, or clarification when needed
Commitment to build strong relationships with campers, co-workers, and camp leadership
Able to work well in a busy, dynamic, and sometimes noisy environment involving multiple tasks and priorities.
Ability to work in variety of weather conditions for extended periods of time in case of rain, heat, humidity, cold, or other environmental factors to ensure the supervision and safety of campers in our care.
Able to lift and carry objects weighing 30-40 pounds (boxes of supplies, children’s backpacks, etc.
Able to sit and kneel; getting down at eye level with children regularly.

Nice To Haves

High school degree preferred
College degree, concentration or equivalent experience in performing arts related field preferred
1+ season (summer camp, semester, other) instructor experience planning and leading performing arts activities for children
Customer service experience preferred
Equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted at the JCC’s discretion to meet minimum criteria.

Responsibilities

Plan, prepare, and lead age-appropriate activities in your specialty area
Ensure the safety and well-being of campers during activities
Create a fun, inclusive, and supportive environment that encourages skill-building and exploration
Work in partnership with counselors and camp leadership to provide a cohesive, positive camper experience
Maintain, organize, and request necessary supplies and equipment
Adapt activities to meet the needs and abilities of diverse campers
Support camp-wide special events and large-group programming as assigned
Assist with overall camp operations as needed (drop-off/pick-up, transitions, lunch, supervision, etc.)
Actively create a welcoming dynamic that contributes to an environment where each individual is valued and respected
Actively participate as an essential team member
Support JCC Greater Boston’s mission, vision, and values of belonging, joyfulness, collaboration, and transformation, including through role modeling
Enthusiastically representing the organization, model excellence and achievement
Attend JCCGB meetings and trainings as assigned
Other duties as assigned

Benefits

JCC Health & Fitness center access
Free bus service for staff from Cambridge, Brookline, Jamaica Plain, West Roxbury, Wayland, Framingham, Natick, Needham, Newton and Wellesley during the summer season.
Seasonal access to the JCC Fitness Center includes: Use of the Fitness Center at Leventhal-Sidman JCC during active seasonal employment
Free or discounted enrollment for camp programs may be available for camp employees’ children based on availability.

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