Drama Instructor, Camp Kaleidoscope, Summer Day Camp

Share your love of performing arts, drama, theater and improv by teaching drama classes for children entering grades K‑3 this summer. Camp Kaleidoscope, the JCC summer day camp in Newton, draws creative campers interested in the arts, science and the outdoors. Camp Counselors and activity specialists guide campers in drama, art, science, sports, swimming and much more as they develop and build self‑confidence.

The energy of the camp is lively, playful and warm, as both campers and staff develop lifelong friendships.

JCC Greater Boston offers free bus service for staff from Cambridge, Brookline, Jamaica Plain, West Roxbury, Wayland, Framingham, Natick, Needham, Newton and Wellesley during the summer season.

Each day, you’ll spark camper creativity by leading games and contributing to a colorful and vibrant camp culture. You’ll lead hands‑on art activities and help campers explore acting, drama, improv, and more. You will also work with your counselors to lead two camper performances. Beyond your specialty, you’ll also be part of the camp team: helping with transitions, supporting special events, and ensuring campers feel included and connected.

• Plan, prepare, and lead age‑appropriate activities in your specialty area
• Ensure the safety and well‑being of campers during activities
• Create a fun, inclusive, and supportive environment that encourages skill‑building and exploration
• Work in partnership with counselors and camp leadership to provide a cohesive, positive camper experience
• Maintain, organize, and request necessary supplies and equipment
• Adapt activities to meet the needs and abilities of diverse campers
• Support camp‑wide special events and large‑group programming as assigned
• Assist with overall camp operations as needed (drop‑off/pick‑up, transitions, lunch, supervision, etc.)

• Actively create a welcoming dynamic that contributes to an environment where each individual is valued and respected
• Actively participate as an essential team member
• Support JCC Greater Boston’s mission, vision, and values of belonging, joyfulness, collaboration, and transformation, including through role modeling
• Enthusiastically representing the organization, model excellence and achievement
• Attend JCCGB meetings and trainings as assigned
• Other duties as assigned

This is an hourly position with a daily schedule of 8:30 am – 4:30 pm, Monday – Friday. Offering great perks, including JCC Health & Fitness center access, a supportive, vibrant in‑person work environment, and a competitive starting pay rate of $20 per hour. The pay rate offered will ultimately be determined by relevant qualifications, experience, and JCC’s internal equity.

The 8‑week camp program is June 22 – August 21, including staff training. While we prefer candidates who are available all summer, we recognize that candidates may have other obligations and are happy to work with your schedule.

• High school degree preferred
• College degree, concentration or equivalent experience in performing arts related field preferred1+ season (summer camp, semester, other) instructor experience planning and leading performing arts activities for children
• Customer service experience preferred
• Equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted at the JCC’s discretion to meet minimum criteria.

• Genuine enjoyment of working with children and helping them grow
• Passion and expertise in your specialty area (arts, sports, music, cooking, science, etc.)
• Ability to plan and lead age‑appropriate, engaging, and inclusive activities
• Excellent group management skills
• Strong communication, teamwork, and collaboration skills with campers and staff
• Safety awareness and ability to manage risks during activities
• Creativity, flexibility and patience to adapt activities for diverse camper needs
• Positive, energetic attitude and commitment to fostering an inclusive, joyful camp environment
• Proactive problem‑solving and willingness to ask for guidance when needed
• Self‑starter who takes the initiative
• Must be able to work well with others, building/sustaining collaborative solid…