Content Specialist (Cross Island) YMCA)

About the Role

Being part of the YMCA Afterschool staff team is a deeply rewarding job where you support children’s learning, help build strong connections, and have a positive impact on your community. At Y Afterschool, you will create a safe and fun space for kids to learn and grow, lead creative activities, and help them develop valuable skills. This is an opportunity to make a real difference and gain invaluable leadership and interpersonal experience.

Responsibilities

• Select and manage content across all required program areas, including creating new curricula and lesson plans when necessary.
• Oversee lesson plan implementation and support Activity Specialists, Group Leaders, and Inclusion Specialists to ensure effective delivery.
• Coach staff by providing targeted strategies and techniques to enhance lesson facilitation, classroom management, and behavior support.
• Review content to ensure alignment with the high-quality standards of the Y Afterschool Programs.
• Provide professional development for program staff to improve overall program quality.
• Support monitoring and evaluating program activities to ensure a safe, high-quality, and positive environment for youth development.
• Assist participants in increasing comprehension and retention of subject material and improving academic skills.
• Help participants develop study skills for academic success and provide encouragement or alternative explanations as needed.
• Work with the Program Director and school staff to align activities, assignments, and strategies with academic expectations.
• Encourage student motivation and positive attitudes toward learning by acknowledging efforts, progress, and achievements.
• Collaborate with Afterschool staff, professional staff, teachers, and other programs.
• Promote an inclusive, welcoming, and respectful environment that embraces diversity.
• Maintain a strength-based, youth-focused atmosphere sensitive to participants with learning, emotional, or behavioral differences.
• Maintain accurate program documentation (sign-in/sign-out forms, behavior reports, and incident reports).
• Serve as a positive role model for participants.
• Communicate the YMCA’s core values and the goals of the Y Afterschool Program to participants and caregivers.
• Actively participate in training sessions, designated meetings, and special events.
• Adhere to all Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS), Department of Health (DOH), YMCA of Greater New York, school partner, and funder standards and regulations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Education or a related field (required). Master’s Degree (preferred).
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience working with children under the age of 13.
• Minimum of one (1) year of experience in a supervisory/oversight position, including management and development of program content, staff supervision, training, and coaching.
• Experience in developing education-based curriculum/lesson plans.
• General knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.