SONYC - Group Worker

About DreamYard

DreamYard's mission is to collaborate with Bronx youth, families and schools to build pathways to equity and opportunity through the arts. DreamYard Project is the largest arts provider in the Bronx, and uses project-based arts learning to ignite the transformative spirit in youth, public schools and communities. DreamYard's school-based and out of school programs are based on 21st century learning and social justice pedagogy principles. Our work is aligned with the NYC Department of Education Blueprint for the Arts and the NY State Learning Standards, and encourages young people to pursue educational pathways toward higher learning, meaningful careers and social action. Our nationally recognized programming has grown tremendously in response to student interest and community need. Co-Executive directors Jason Duchin and Tim Lord founded DreamYard in 1994. Since then, DreamYard has worked with more than 100 public schools and over 100,000 young people and families. DreamYard has developed a robust educational community in the Bronx - from its network of 45 partnering public schools including the DY Preparatory High School to year-long programs at the DY Art Center.

The Position

The SONYC Group Worker will report to the SONYC Program Director and work closely with SONYC staff (including group leaders, school teachers and other staff) to support the SONYC after school program at a middle school in the Bronx serving 120 students. Primary responsibilities include supporting participants during program procedures related to arrival and dismissal, attendance, and supporting various program activities. It is important that Group Workers be able to act as a positive role model and mentor to the young people they work with, and to develop a positive, supportive culture and an effective way of dealing with challenges with students that may arise. The program site is at MS 390 (1930 Andrews Avenue South, Bronx, NY 10453.)

Responsibilities

o Supporting program systems including attendance, incentives, safety procedures, special events, etc. (for example, monitoring participants during arrival and transitions and ensuring that participants have properly signed out and exited the building from program

o Support Group Leaders with managing participants in a positive, supportive manner

o Provide other administrative support for the program as delegated by Program Director or Assistant Program Director

o Punctuality, dependability, and professional communication are highly important to successful operation of program

Qualifications

• Previous after school experience is required, ideally with middle school aged youth

• Associate degree, or currently working towards Associate or Bachelor's degree

• Ability to collaborate effectively with other after school staff

• Excellent written and spoken communication skills in Spanish is a plus

• Commitment to fostering a student-centered, safe, respectful, and productive environment for all participants, families and school partners

• All staff must pass Dept. of Health fingerprinting clearance, and other related clearances, including a health exam and TB test before beginning work

• All staff must also pass NYC Dept. of Education fingerprinting clearance before beginning work

How to Apply

Click the "apply for the position" link and submit a resume and DreamYard-specific cover letter.

DreamYard is an equal-opportunity employer. DreamYard prohibits unlawful discrimination against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, age, national origin, genetic characteristics, disability, status as a special disabled veteran or veteran, marital status, sexual orientation, sexual identity or any other basis prohibited by law.

More Information

This is a part time position of approximately 10 hours per week. Program runs Monday through Friday from 2:40 pm to 5:40pm and staff hours will be 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm. Program runs for 36 weeks from Sept 2024 through June 2025. Hourly rate: $17.00

Employment Policy

DreamYard is committed to the principles of arts education, educational reform, and social justice, and fashions its programs to specifically address the needs of urban communities that are typically underrepresented because of race, sex, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. Accordingly, we welcome and encourage applications from a diverse range of individuals. Bronx-based and Spanish-speaking applicants are strongly encouraged to apply. DreamYard Project, Inc. employs without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, or any other attributes not related to superior performance.

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