Gardening Instructor - Elementary School

Responsibilities

• Grades PreK-3:
  Design and deliver a series of lesson plans for an enrichment activity aligned to the DREAM program model that supports early exploration and enrichment exposure for early elementary students.
• Grades 4-8:
  Design and deliver a series of lesson plans for an enrichment activity aligned to the DREAM program model that culminates in a project or presentation.
• Collaborate with Youth Workers, Dean of Student Life and Associate Director of Extended Learning and Enrichment to provide a cohesive and fun experience for youth.
• Embed literacy throughout all instruction.
• Prepare all materials before activities begin and facilitate a thorough clean‑up afterwards.
• Encourage youth to positively participate in activities.
• Serve as a role model while demonstrating professional behavior.
• Implement all health and safety protocols as required, including ensuring child safety and responding appropriately to any incidents.
• Note:
  
  Activities that require materials/resources will be given a conservative budget on an as‑needed basis.

• Must be at least 18 years of age by the role’s start date.
• High school diploma required.
• Bachelor’s degree or certification in related field preferred.
• 2+ years experience working with groups of youth, or similar experience preferred.
• Ability to independently plan and implement lessons in a specialty area.
• Clear passion for the specialty area.
• Understanding of effective youth development strategies and conflict resolution.
• Exemplary social, organizational, and communication skills.
• Dedication to the program and ability to collaborate with colleagues to ensure a positive, productive youth experience.
• Ability to work in‑person during all program hours required.
• A strong belief in the mission and values of DREAM, including the belief that all students can succeed, and a deep desire to make a difference in the lives of students, families, and the community.

• East Harlem: 1991 2nd Avenue, New York, NY 10029
• Highbridge: 1162 River Ave Bronx, NY 10452

DREAM offers the following benefits to part‑time employees:

• 403(b) retirement plan, with employer matching up to 4% after one year of employment (12‑month continuous period) in which you work a minimum of 1,000 hours.
• Disability benefits.
• Referral bonuses.
• Discounted school meals through our in‑house Scratch Food Program.
• Access to our Employee Discount Program, offering savings on travel, entertainment, retail, and more.
• High‑performing part‑time staff have the opportunity to apply for the DREAM Teaching Fellowship, which may lead to earning a Bachelors or Masters degree and becoming a full‑time teacher at DREAM.

• Start date:
  
  8/25/2026
• End date: 6/4/2027
• Days & hours:
  Monday - Thursday; 3:00pm - 6:15pm
• Dates and hours are subject to change.

DREAM offers competitive compensation commensurate with relevant experience with the potential for a seasonal increase. The rate for this position is between $30 and $38 per hour. New hires receive an offer within this range based on relevant experience, internal equity, and the budgeted amount for the role. Enrichment Specialists are eligible for seasonal compensation increases based on tenure, in accordance with DREAM’s compensation practices.

Compensation for Specialists who continue employment may exceed the incoming range.