Group Leader at PS 889 - Brooklyn, NY

Group Leaders report to the Program Director and are responsible for the safe and attentive supervision of an assigned group of participants in a school-based after-school setting. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

● Provide attentive care and supervision to assigned group of students.

● Lead assigned group through daily procedures, including supervision during arrival, snack, transitions, activities, and dismissal.

● Develop an understanding of the COMPASS models, goals, and approaches to positive youth development.

● Ensure participants are properly supervised according to licensor regulations at all times.

● Take student attendance; ensure all assigned students are accounted for throughout program time.

● Lead dismissal of assigned students and ensure established site-based dismissal procedures are followed, including dismissing students only to approved adults, managing student sign-out sheets, and releasing students with permission to travel home independently according to procedure.

● Actively assist with activity facilitation for assigned group, according to Activity Specialist’s approved lesson plan.

● Support participants with individual learning and behavioral needs throughout activity periods.

● In the absence of an Activity Specialist, remain prepared to facilitate an activity for assigned group, utilizing a pre-approved lesson plan or group activity from NIA’s curriculum bank.

● Work collaboratively with co-workers in assigned classroom, including Activity Specialists, Teachers, or Youth Workers.

● Ensure assigned classroom/space is kept clean and school property is left undisturbed. Clean up fully after program activity is complete, and leave shared school spaces as they were found.

● Utilize only supplies, materials, and equipment provided directly by NIA or school items explicitly communicated as shared and available for program use.

● Maintain a professional demeanor and interact with program participants according to NIA’s employee requirements, ensuring appropriate boundaries are maintained and pre-approved behavior management techniques are used.

● Adhere to the program’s established mental health response and referral plan.

● Personally complete required Mental Health training, including Mental Health and Mental Illness, Engagement and De-Escalation Strategies, Referral and Crisis Management Protocols, and Mental Health Resources.

● Support on-site Inclusion efforts, working alongside program managers to identify and support student needs.

● Assist in ensuring that program operates safely, including maintaining safe spaces and program practices; adhering to requirements for scheduled fire drills and other safety drills; being vigilant of staff and student interaction, signs of child abuse/maltreatment/neglect, and signs of mental health emergencies.

● Respond according to established organization and site-based plan in the event of on-site injuries or medical emergencies.

● Assist in ensuring that the program operates in compliance with all DOH/licensing mandates.

● Support a strong sense of community which values respect, ensuring that all children and families feel welcome and a sense of belonging.

● Participate in ongoing professional development opportunities, including topics required to maintain organization compliance with funder and licensing requirements.

● Additional tasks as assigned to meet organizational goals.

Qualifications:

● Must be 18 years or older, with at least 2 years of direct experience working with children.

● Associate’s degree preferred; high school diploma or equivalent required.

● College coursework in the areas of education, youth development, or a related field are a plus.

● Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and professionalism are required.