Substitute Program Leader

Think Together • Desert Hot Springs, CA

10d • Onsite

About The Position

Substitute Program Leaders work part-time at different sites throughout the region, with assignments based on their availability. They lead an assigned group of students and serve as positive adult role models, coaches, and mentors. The role requires a genuine interest in student growth and development and in providing a safe, nurturing environment. Leaders use patience, communication, and leadership to establish authority and build connections, helping students feel stable and supported.

In person, leaders provide homework assistance, academic enrichment, and physical activity using program-provided curriculum and materials. They work with groups of 20–25 students in classroom settings, support behavior management, and help maintain students’ safety. They also assist with snack preparation and cleanup, site setup and maintenance, and student attendance and sign-in/sign-out procedures. Assignments are available at least three days per week, Monday through Friday, with program times roughly between 12:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.; schedules may vary due to school minimum-day schedules.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• For district-specific requirements, 48 semester units or 60 quarter units and/or passing a pre-employment test.
• Ability to speak and write Standard English appropriate for a public-school setting.
• Must pass a Live Scan criminal background check via fingerprinting.
• Must provide a negative TB test dated within the last three years.
• At least six months of experience working with a group of 10 or more students in a classroom, afterschool, or recreation environment.
• Availability at least three days per week, Monday through Friday.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to utilize various digital learning platforms.

Nice To Haves

• Bi-literacy to support English learners; Spanish is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead a group of students in person while maintaining behavior and safety standards through the Think Together core agreements: Be safe, Be respectful, Be responsible, and Have fun.
• Create an engaging environment where students feel a sense of belonging.
• Support students in making positive behavior choices and take disciplinary measures when appropriate.
• Identify student needs and communicate them to the Site Program Manager, teachers, school administration, and parents, as appropriate.
• Participate in staff development.
• Provide homework assistance, academic enrichment, and physical activity using program-provided curriculum and materials.
• Work directly with 20–25 students in a classroom setting and implement classroom and behavior management strategies.
• Assist with daily snack preparation, serving, and cleanup.
• Assist with setup, breakdown, and ongoing maintenance to keep the school or community site clean and orderly.
• Maintain student safety by taking roll and reviewing sign-ins and sign-outs for student activities.
• Arrive punctually for site setup and assignments.
• Use various digital learning platforms.
• Maintain close communication with the Site Program Manager regarding planned or emergency absences.
• Maintain confidentiality in staff, student, and volunteer matters.
• Comply with organizational and site policies and procedures.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Education Level: High school or GED