James Patterson Enrichment Program Summer Instructor

Position Description

The James Patterson Enrichment Program is seeking a dedicated and motivated individual to serve as Summer Instructor for its Summer Enrichment Program, that aims to work with local high school students on their college essays and an additional academic project. In this role, instructors play a central part in creating a dynamic and supportive learning environment, helping students build critical thinking, writing, and public speaking skills, as well as working with other team members to create curriculum and problem solve.

This position offers valuable, hands‑on professional experience in teaching, allowing participants to strengthen their skills of instruction, collaboration, classroom management, and communication. Instructors will work closely with a co‑teacher to plan and deliver engaging lessons, while adapting to the needs of a fast‑paced academic environment. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong organizational skills, adaptability, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

The James Patterson Enrichment Program is a four‑week, non‑residential college readiness program designed to strengthen local high school students’ ability to think critically, write powerfully, and speak persuasively. In its inaugural year, we are excited to build a program that will have a lasting impact at Manhattan University, providing education majors with valuable, real‑world experiences, in addition to giving back to our local community and schools.

Running through the entirety of July, the program will operate as a fully functioning summer initiative, offering daily lessons, collaborative projects, and interactive activities for students. Participants will be rising high school seniors, preparing for college applications and looking to strengthen their skills. Education majors will gain hands‑on experience planning and leading instruction, managing classrooms, and engaging directly with students, all within a structured, supportive environment that mirrors the professional demands of teaching.

Throughout the program, summer instructors will receive guidance and support from the Manhattan University Department of Education, as well as the James Patterson Honors Program, including continuous structured training and ongoing mentorship throughout the summer to ensure they understand and are prepared for the responsibilities of the role.

Attend and participate in required training sessions.

• Facilitate the set‑up and breakdown needs of classrooms
• Ensure communication with students, families, and team
• Foster a warm and welcoming environment, ensuring all students’ needs are met
• Maintain organization of teaching locations and facilitate student transitions
• Represent Manhattan University and its values
• Help design and prepare curriculum materials
• Daily lesson preparation
• Classroom management
• Ability to plan and lead instruction in a pair

• Bachelor’s degree required
• Ability to problem‑solve in a fast‑paced environment
• Able to work independently while also working well in a team environment
• Ability to multi‑task and quickly adapt to last‑minute requests
• Offer suggestions on program implementation and suitable efficiencies
• Ability to lift between 20–30 lbs is required
• Operational experience with computers and audio/visuals is a plus
• Training will be provided for those who are not familiar with the equipment

Employment Duration

Training:
June 30 – July
2. Program:
Mon‑Thu July 6 – July 31. Typical work schedule includes 32 hours per week as assigned. Additional hours may be allocated based on schedule changes. Monday‑Thursday 8 AM‑3 PM. Friday 9 AM‑1 PM.

James Patterson Enrichment Program Summer Instructors will receive pay for assigned hours worked and free campus housing.

• $20.00 per hour
• Free campus housing (please note on‑campus housing is considered taxable income)
• Move‑in:
  June 28, 2026;
  Move‑out:
  August 2, 2026
• Free lunch during working hours
• Employment period:
  Tuesday, May 29 2026 – Sunday, August 2 2026. Summer Instructors are required to be in person for the duration of the program. While the program…