SONYC Afterschool Activity Specialist

Position: Activity Specialist

Department: After school

Reports to: SONYC Program Director/Assistant Director

Hours: 5 - 20 hours per week

FLSA: Part-time

Pay rate: $35.00 per hour

The Activity Specialist at MS 135 is responsible for designing and facilitating physical or hands‑on activities for middle school participants that are engaging and enriching. This role includes preparing participants for end‑of‑cycle showcases where they can present their projects and demonstrate what they've learned.

• Program Planning: Develop and implement engaging, age‑appropriate activities that focus on skill development for middle school participants.
• Activity Leadership: Lead and supervise daily workshops, group discussions and hands‑on exercises that allow participants to practice and refine their skills in a supportive environment.
• Skill Development: Teach participants essential skills, encouraging curiosity, collaboration, and innovative thinking. Help participants learn how to apply concepts to real‑world problems.
• Participant Supervision: Monitor participants during activities to ensure a safe, inclusive, and positive learning environment. Address any behavior or safety concerns promptly.
• Materials and Equipment Management: Oversee the use and maintenance of materials and equipment, ensuring they are properly organized and safe for participant use.
• Encouraging Engagement: Foster a supportive and encouraging atmosphere that allows participants to explore concepts, ask questions, and take creative risks without fear of failure.
• Showcase Preparation: Guide participants through the process of preparing for an end‑of‑cycle showcase, where they will present their projects. Assist with project development, presentation skills, and the organization and setup of the showcase event.
• Feedback and Evaluation: Provide constructive feedback to participants throughout the program, helping them refine their projects and build confidence in their skills.
• Communication: Collaborate with program leadership, parents, and school staff to provide updates on participant progress, showcase preparations, and any notable achievements or concerns.

• High school diploma or equivalent (required); completion of at least 30 college credits.
• Experience working with middle school age youth in an educational or recreational setting.
• Strong leadership and group management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to plan and lead engaging activities.
• Specialties such as Theater/Drama, Music, Yoga, Art, STEM, Photography, Cartooning, Literacy, and Leadership, in addition to other fields, will be considered.
• CPR and First Aid certification (preferred).

• Must be able to work during after school hours, typically between 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM.
• Ability to supervise and engage in physical activities-with participants.
• May require extended hours during certain DOE school breaks and closures.
• May require occasional evening or weekend hours for special events.
• This is a seasonal position running from September to June.