Instructor/Activity Specialist (ARTS, STEM, SPORTS, DANCE) - Seasonal

About the role

The Instructor/Activity Specialist is responsible for designing engaging skill-based enrichment activities for our youth. Specialists bring expertise in a specific content area such as STEM, Arts, Sports, Dance, or technology and deliver structured, age-appropriate lessons that enhance students' learning and summer experience. This role supports student development through hands-on instruction, creativity, and active participation while ensuring a safe and inclusive environment.

Responsibilities

• Plan and develop structured lesson plans aligned with area of expertise.
• Lead daily enrichment activities that are engaging, interactive, and age-appropriate.
• Adapt instruction to meet the needs and interest of diverse learners.
• Maintain a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment.
• Collaborate with Group Leaders and program staff to support overall program goals.
• Prepare materials and set up activity spaces in advance.
• Track participation and support attendance efforts.
• Manage student behavior using positive youth development strategies.
• Participate in staff meetings and professional development.
• Follow all HANAC, Summer Rising, NYC Public Schools, OCFS, and DYCD policies and procedures.

Qualifications

• A high school diploma or equivalent (Associates or Bachelor’s Preferred).
• Demonstrated experience or expertise in a specialty activity area.
• Experience working with children or youth.
• Ability to create and implement engaging lesson plans.
• Strong classroom/activity management skills.
• Creative and engaging instruction style.
• Flexibility and adaptability.
• Strong communication and team-oriented skills.

Skills

• High School diploma or equivalent (Associates or Bachelor’s Preferred).
• Demonstrated experience or expertise in a specialty activity area.
• Experience working with children or youth.
• Ability to create and implement engaging lesson plans.
• Strong classroom/activity management skills.
• Creative and engaging instruction style.
• Flexibility and adaptability.
• Strong communication and team-oriented skills.