Literacy Specialist – Afterschool Program

New York Junior Tennis League,Inc•New York, NY

About The Position

The Literacy Specialist designs and facilitates engaging literacy programming for middle school students in grades 6–8. The role strengthens students’ reading comprehension, writing, vocabulary, communication, and critical-thinking skills through interactive lessons, creative writing, literature discussions, and project-based learning. The specialist introduces students to diverse genres, authors, and perspectives, encourages a love of reading, and helps students gain confidence expressing their ideas. Students may develop original writing, participate in book discussions, create literary projects, and share their work through readings, publications, and showcases. The position is based at NYJTL after-school program sites in Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, or Manhattan. The schedule is Monday through Friday, with shifts scheduled between 2:00 PM and 6:00 PM; start and end times may vary by site. The role is up to 20 hours per week, with availability during those hours required. Selected candidates are expected to work through the full school year ending in June 2027. Some school-holiday availability is required, and meetings, training, and special events may take place outside program hours.

Requirements

At least 2 years of experience working with children or youth in group settings, such as after-school, camp, school, or recreational programs.
Demonstrated experience or knowledge in literacy education, English language arts, creative writing, reading instruction, or a related field.
Strong knowledge of reading comprehension, writing development, and literacy strategies.
Ability to develop engaging, age-appropriate reading and writing activities.
Strong communication, classroom-management, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to support students with varying reading abilities and learning needs.
Passion for literature, storytelling, and youth development.
Dependability, professionalism, patience, and enthusiasm.
High school diploma or GED.
Availability Monday through Friday during after-school hours, 2:00 PM–6:00 PM, for up to 20 hours per week, and during some school holidays.
Expected availability for the full school year through June 2027.
Ability to pass required background checks and comply with program policies and safety requirements.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with middle school or adolescent youth.
College degree, teaching certification, literacy training, or equivalent experience.
Some college coursework or a degree in Education, Arts, Recreation, Youth Development, or a related field.
Experience in a DYCD-funded program or NYC after-school setting.
Bilingual language skills.

Responsibilities

Plan and facilitate literacy lessons, reading groups, writing workshops, and literary projects.
Strengthen students’ reading comprehension, vocabulary, fluency, and analytical-thinking skills.
Introduce students to diverse literary genres, authors, cultures, and perspectives.
Develop creative writing opportunities, including poetry, short stories, journaling, essays, and personal narratives.
Facilitate group discussions, book clubs, debates, and activities that promote critical thinking and communication.
Incorporate literacy into interdisciplinary projects, media, storytelling, and real-world experiences.
Encourage students to create original writing and creative literary portfolios.
Prepare students for poetry readings, writing competitions, literary showcases, and student publications.
Create an inclusive environment that supports differing reading levels, learning styles, and individual interests.
Maintain accurate attendance and program documentation.
Complete 15 hours of professional development each calendar year.
Attend required meetings, training workshops, and special events, including those outside program hours.
Design and implement sequential, project-based units and lesson plans in the assigned specialty area.
Align activities with program goals, youth interests, and DYCD/COMPASS-SONYC frameworks.
Integrate social-emotional learning, teamwork, and youth leadership opportunities into activities.
Prepare materials and supplies in advance and maintain an organized, safe activity space.
Lead engaging, hands-on sessions that are inclusive and differentiated for varying skill and grade levels.
Establish clear expectations, routines, and positive behavior supports.
Build relationships with youth and encourage participation, creativity, and persistence.
Adapt activities based on student responses, behavior, and feedback.
Collaborate with Group Leaders, Tutors, and site leadership to coordinate schedules and support youth needs.
Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and planning sessions.
Share progress, challenges, and recommendations for program improvement with supervisors.
Ensure youth safety and supervision at all times and follow agency and DYCD policies.
Assist with attendance, sign-in/sign-out, and other basic documentation.
Care for and inventory program equipment and supplies related to the specialty area.
Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.