SPARK! Elementary Classroom Teacher

YMCA of Greater Kansas City•Kansas City, KS

About The Position

SPARK! Summer Camp has all the fun and excitement of camp with awesome field trips and exciting learning opportunities! This program runs for seven-weeks. The program provides children a full-day summer camp experience. In addition to dedicated academic time for campers in the morning, SPARK! includes holistic learning from the Y’s Youth Development curriculum, including healthy lifestyle components, nutrition,character education and much more. The SPARK! Elementary Classroom Teacher position works around 25 hours a week planning, implementing and supervising morning educational activities for students, providing each participant with the opportunity to develop physically, mentally, spiritually and socially. Hours are generally Mon-Fri 7:30am-12:30pm. OUR CULTURE: The YMCA of Greater Kansas City’s mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. It’s who we are, who we aspire to be and how we show up every day. We are cause-driven. We don’t just show up, we show up with purpose. 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

Current Elementary Teaching Certificate.
Two years’ experience or training related to planning and implementing age appropriate literacy education plans and classroom activities for children.
Excellent communication skills.
Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions and perceptions.
Adapts to make independent and sound decisions in a fast paced environment.
Able to exercise high levels of discretion and confidentiality.
Detail oriented with good organizational skills, and be multi-task proficient.
Have a general understanding of and proficiency with computer technology.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement literacy-focused lesson plans for scheduled program times using research and evidence-based strategies and resources, ensuring activities support diverse ages, abilities, and learning styles while maintaining a safe and engaging environment.
Lead and coach Learning Coaches/assistants during literacy instruction, providing direction, modeling effective teaching strategies, and ensuring consistency in lesson delivery.
Adapt and modify literacy lessons as needed to meet camper needs, respond to changing circumstances, or improve instructional outcomes.
Maintain all literacy materials, books, educational tools, and instructional supplies in good working order and request replacements as needed.
Ensure all program activities operate safely and intentionally, following YMCA policies, licensing requirements, and best practices for youth development.
Provide proactive and positive behavior guidance, using respectful techniques that support literacy learning and social-emotional growth.
Oversee camper health and safety, following established procedures for illness, injury, and daily wellness checks.
Recognize emergency situations and respond quickly, following all emergency action plans and reporting protocols.
Maintain continuous supervision and awareness of camper locations, enforcing safety rules, literacy-area procedures, and appropriate behavior management techniques at all times.
Instruct campers in emergency procedures and ensure they understand expectations for safe participation.
Build positive, supportive relationships with campers, families, and fellow staff to foster open communication and a welcoming, inclusive literacy-rich environment.
Promote physical, emotional, social, and character development, incorporating YMCA core values into literacy activities and daily interactions.
Help sustain a respectful and encouraging camp culture, supporting morale and well-being among campers and staff.
Monitor safety and procedural compliance throughout all camp activities, particularly in literacy learning spaces.
Report any suspected child abuse or neglect immediately, as required by Kansas and Missouri law as a mandated reporter.
Notify supervisors of unsafe conditions, needed repairs, complaints, accidents, or injuries.
Document and communicate relevant incidents, instructional feedback, and supply needs to supervisors to support continuous program improvement.