School-Age Group Leader (Pecatonica)

YMCA of Rock River Valley•Rockford, IL

2d•$15•Onsite

About The Position

YOUR IMPACT The School-Age Group Leader is a dedicated and enthusiastic individual responsible for guiding and mentoring a group of children in before and after school programs, as well as summer camp activities. Reporting to the School-Age Area Coordinator and working closely with the Site Lead, the Group Leader plays a key role in implementing engaging, educational, and recreational activities that support the development of youth. This position requires a commitment to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment, fostering positive relationships with participants, parents, and school staff. Regardless of primary assignment, this position may be required to travel between program sites as needed. EXPECTATIONS & RESPONSIBILITIES Supports day-to-day operations of assigned before and/or after school sites during the school year. During no school days and summer camp programs, serve as a group leader as assigned by supervisor. Leads and mentors a group of children, fostering a positive and engaging environment. Facilitates and participates in group activities throughout the daily schedule, ensuring they are educational, recreational, and aligned with program goals. Ensures youth safety by actively participating in and supervising all swimming and water-based activities. Provides a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment for all participants. Builds caring, consistent, and positive relationships with program participants. Provides constant supervision during program to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants. Supports students in academic, recreational, and enrichment activities, using provided curriculum materials. Assists the Site Lead in handling discipline, complaints, and conflict resolution, employing positive youth discipline techniques, such as Core Values, Redirect, and Behavior Agreements. Models appropriate behaviors, including cleanliness, punctuality, sharing, healthy habits, sportsmanship, and table manners. Treats all students, parents, and fellow staff with respect and fosters a culture of respect within the program. Performs duties and tasks as assigned by the Site Lead, supporting the smooth operation of the site. Treats and cares for the site and equipment respectfully, ensuring the space is kept clean and well-maintained. Attends and actively participates in all team meetings and trainings. Communicates all concerns to leadership in a timely manner. Ensures a strong focus on character development and diversity, equity and inclusion throughout programming. Adheres to all state, local, and YMCA policies and procedures. Reports damaged equipment or safety hazards promptly. During no school days and summer camp programs, serve as a group leader as assigned by Area Coordinator. Performs any other functions necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the YMCA of Rock River Valley.

Requirements

Minimum age of 16
Minimum High School Diploma or GED preferred
1-year related experience of leadership in a childcare setting preferred
YMCA Leader certification preferred
Training required upon hire: Gateways Child Development Health & Safety, IL DCFS Child Abuse and Neglect/Mandated Reporter.
Any additional certifications that are required by the state of Illinois
CACFP/SFSP Training required within 90 days
CPR, AED and First Aid Certifications required within 90 days
Current Praesidium Academy trainings

Nice To Haves

Minimum High School Diploma or GED preferred
1-year related experience of leadership in a childcare setting preferred
YMCA Leader certification preferred

Responsibilities

Supports day-to-day operations of assigned before and/or after school sites during the school year.
During no school days and summer camp programs, serve as a group leader as assigned by supervisor.
Leads and mentors a group of children, fostering a positive and engaging environment.
Facilitates and participates in group activities throughout the daily schedule, ensuring they are educational, recreational, and aligned with program goals.
Ensures youth safety by actively participating in and supervising all swimming and water-based activities.
Provides a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment for all participants.
Builds caring, consistent, and positive relationships with program participants.
Provides constant supervision during program to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants.
Supports students in academic, recreational, and enrichment activities, using provided curriculum materials.
Assists the Site Lead in handling discipline, complaints, and conflict resolution, employing positive youth discipline techniques, such as Core Values, Redirect, and Behavior Agreements.
Models appropriate behaviors, including cleanliness, punctuality, sharing, healthy habits, sportsmanship, and table manners.
Treats all students, parents, and fellow staff with respect and fosters a culture of respect within the program.
Performs duties and tasks as assigned by the Site Lead, supporting the smooth operation of the site.
Treats and cares for the site and equipment respectfully, ensuring the space is kept clean and well-maintained.
Attends and actively participates in all team meetings and trainings.
Communicates all concerns to leadership in a timely manner.
Ensures a strong focus on character development and diversity, equity and inclusion throughout programming.
Adheres to all state, local, and YMCA policies and procedures.
Reports damaged equipment or safety hazards promptly.
During no school days and summer camp programs, serve as a group leader as assigned by Area Coordinator.
Performs any other functions necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the YMCA of Rock River Valley.

Benefits

Discounted Programs & Services, Including Child Care
Pay Differential for Bilingual Employees
Paid Time Off: Paid Leave for All Workers
Employee Crisis Fund
Employee Assistance Program
Cell Phone Discounts with Participating Providers
Tickets At Work Discount Program
401 (a) Retirement Plan: 8% YMCA Contributed Retirement
403 (b) Savings Plan: Tax-Deferred Account and Roth Account Options
Free Family Membership
3 Paid Floating Holidays
10.5 Paid Holidays
Paid Vacation and Sick Time: Varies by Employment Type
Short-Term Disability Program
Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance: Partially Employer Paid. Employee Contribution Required
Life and Long-Term Disability Insurance: YMCA Sponsored and Employee Contribution Programs Available
Accident, Critical Illness & Hospital Insurance Plans: Employee Contribution Required
Tuition Reimbursement: Must Meet Qualifications
Free individual Membership
Discounted Rate to Upgrade to Another Membership Category