After School Instructor

After School Program Teacher/Instructor

The ASP Teacher/Instructor serves as the classroom teacher and instructional lead for Thornton Township's After School Program. This position provides direct academic instruction, tutoring, homework support, and educational enrichment to school-aged participants. The Teacher/Instructor is expected to independently lead a classroom, maintain structure and positive behavior, and adjust instruction to meet different student learning needs.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide direct academic instruction and tutoring in reading, writing, mathematics, homework completion, and other age-appropriate subjects.
• Plan and facilitate structured lessons, academic enrichment, and skill-building activities that reinforce learning from the regular school day.
• Lead and manage an assigned classroom or student group independently, including routines, expectations, transitions, and behavior management.
• Provide one-on-one and small-group tutoring and modify instruction based on student needs, skill levels, and learning styles.
• Monitor student participation and academic progress and communicate concerns or support needs to program leadership.
• Prepare instructional materials, learning activities, and classroom resources before program sessions.
• Direct and coordinate the work of Assistant staff within the classroom to support student learning and supervision.
• Maintain accurate attendance and other required program records.
• Supervise students during academic activities, recreation, snacks/meals, transitions, and dismissal.
• Maintain a safe, respectful, inclusive, and professional learning environment and follow all Township youth-safety procedures.
• Participate in staff meetings, training, and program planning and perform other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Previous classroom teaching experience is required.
• Previous tutoring experience is required.
• Demonstrated experience providing academic instruction to school-aged children or youth.
• Ability to independently lead and manage a classroom or group of students.
• Strong knowledge of instructional techniques, classroom management, and student engagement.
• Ability to explain academic concepts clearly and adjust instructional methods to meet individual student needs.
• Strong communication, organization, lesson-planning, and time-management skills.

Education and Preferred Credentials:

• Bachelor's degree in Education, Elementary Education, Secondary Education, Early Childhood Education, Special Education, or a closely related field preferred.
• Current or previous experience as a classroom teacher, substitute teacher, or other instructional professional strongly preferred.
• Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) or Substitute Teaching License preferred, but not required unless otherwise designated by Thornton Township.

Additional Requirements:

Successful candidates may be required to complete applicable background screening, Mandated Reporter requirements, CPR/AED and First Aid training, Township onboarding, and other youth-program training or documentation required by Thornton Township.