Middle School Program Instructor

OAKLAND LEAF FOUNDATION•Oakland, CA

2d•$21 - $27•Onsite

About The Position

Oakland Leaf is seeking a Middle School Program Instructor to facilitate engaging, youth-centered activities for middle school students. This frontline role is responsible for building authentic relationships, supporting social-emotional development, and fostering a warm, inclusive, and lively site culture. The ideal candidate understands the challenges faced by 6th-8th graders and is committed to being a positive, consistent, and values-aligned presence. This is a meaningful entry point into youth development or education for individuals passionate about making a difference in the lives of Oakland youth.

Requirements

Strong commitment to Oakland Leaf's mission and belief in the power of youth leadership and equity in education.
Genuine enthusiasm for working with 6th–8th grade students.
At least 1 year of experience working with youth in a program, school, camp, community, or recreational setting.
Experience with middle school or adolescent populations strongly preferred.
Demonstrated ability to build authentic relationships with middle school youth.
Understanding of adolescent development, including social, emotional, and behavioral dynamics specific to 6th–8th grade students.
Ability to hold clear boundaries with warmth and firmness and apply restorative approaches.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Ability to work collaboratively within a site team.
Reliability, punctuality, and follow-through.
High cultural competency and a commitment to building inclusive, youth-centered program environments.
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Must pass a background check in accordance with California law and Oakland Unified School District requirements.
High school diploma or equivalent required.

Nice To Haves

Experience with expanded learning or school-based settings.
Some college coursework in Child Development, Education, Youth Development, or a related field preferred.
Units toward a Child Development Permit a plus.

Responsibilities

Implement and facilitate engaging, developmentally appropriate, and culturally responsive curriculum for assigned middle school student groups.
Prepare for activities in advance, including gathering materials and reviewing lesson plans.
Deliver high-quality experiences with creativity, energy, and enthusiasm.
Adapt activities in real-time based on student engagement and group dynamics.
Build authentic, caring, and consistent relationships with every student.
Create a group environment where every student feels seen, welcomed, and excited to participate.
Support the identity development, leadership, and critical thinking of middle school youth.
Hold clear boundaries and apply restorative approaches to conflict and behavior.
Navigate middle school social dynamics effectively.
Maintain professional, warm, and culturally responsive relationships with families.
Maintain active, attentive supervision of all students at all times.
Follow safety protocols for student transitions, activities, and emergencies.
Respond to student injuries, illnesses, and safety concerns immediately.
Contribute to a physically safe program environment by keeping activity spaces organized.
Arrive on time, prepared, and ready to contribute every program day.
Participate actively in site staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development.
Support daily site operations, including transitions, setup, cleanup, and dismissal.
Communicate student concerns and program challenges to the Site Coordinator/Manager promptly.
Contribute to a positive, inclusive site team culture.