Activity Specialist, Early Life COMPASS Elementary

Lutheran Social Services of New YorkNew York City, New YorkOn-sitePart-timeNew grad, 0–1 yearsListed 13 minutes ago

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About this role

POSITION: Activity Specialist, Early LIFE COMPASS Elementary

REPORTS TO: Program Director, COMPASS Elementary

CLASSIFICATION: Part-Time

EXEMPT/NONEXEMPT: Non-Exempt (Hourly)

SALARY/WAGES: $18.09 - $19.23 per hour

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

The Activity Specialist supports the successful daily operation of the school-age classroom and leads enrichment activities in their specialty area (e.g., arts, STEAM, financial literacy, fitness, technology, dance, drama, music, robotics, etc.). This role is essential to delivering high-quality, developmentally appropriate, engaging programming that supports the academic, social-emotional, and creative growth of each child.

The Activity Specialist works collaboratively with the Group Teacher/Leader and Program Director to maintain a safe, inclusive, and positive learning environment aligned with our organizational mission and core values.

MAJOR DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Classroom Support & Supervision

• Assists the Group Teacher/Leader in supervising, engaging, and supporting students during daily routines, transitions, and enrichment activities.

• Maintain proper staff-to-child ratios and ensure active supervision at all times.

• Support homework help, literacy time, independent learning, and group activities.

• Reinforce classroom expectations using positive guidance, restorative practices, and SEL strategies.

2. Activity Specialist Responsibilities (Content Delivery)

• Plan and lead high-quality enrichment sessions in their area of expertise (e.g., Sports, STEAM, Dance, Theatre, Music, Robotics, Financial Literacy, Digital Literacy, Creative Arts, Technology, etc.).

• Plan and coordinate with community partners and service providers for the implementation and delivery of activities

• Design activities that are hands-on, inclusive, engaging, and aligned with program goals.

• Incorporate creativity, innovation, SEL strategies, and project-based learning.

• Adapt activities to meet the needs of diverse learners, including children with disabilities or sensory needs.

• Prepare materials, organize supplies, and maintain an engaging learning environment.

3. Child Development & Social-Emotional Support

• Model social-emotional competencies such as empathy, self-awareness, emotional expression, and teamwork.

• Assist with conflict resolution, problem-solving, and behavior support strategies.

• Recognize and respond to students’ individual needs using trauma-informed and inclusive practices.

4. Safety, Health & Compliance

• Assist in ensuring that the classroom meets all licensing, health and safety requirements, and organizational standards.

• Follow all protocols for sign-in/out, attendance, incident reporting, emergency drills, and supervision.

• Maintain clean, organized spaces and sanitize materials as needed.

• Report any concerns promptly to the Group Teacher/Leader or Program Director.

5. Family Communication & Relationship Building

• Greet families warmly and support positive, professional interactions.

• Refer family questions or concerns to the Group Teacher/Leader or Program Director as needed.

• Demonstrate respect, confidentiality, and cultural sensitivity at all times.

6. Collaboration & Professional Growth

• Participate in staff meetings, planning sessions, trainings, and professional development.

• Collaborate with the teaching team and partner providers to coordinate schedules and activities.

• Reflect on practice and seek constructive feedback to continuously improve.

CORE VALUES ALIGNMENT:

Inclusion:

Creates activities and learning opportunities accessible to all children, celebrating diversity and cultural backgrounds.

Support:

Provides encouragement, guidance, and individualized assistance during lessons, transitions, and enrichment.

Growth:

Promotes children’s academic, creative, and social-emotional development while pursuing personal professional growth.

Community:

Supports a classroom culture of respect, collaboration, belonging, and shared responsibility.

Innovation:

Implements engaging, future-ready enrichment activities that integrate creativity, technology, and hands-on learning.

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent; some college credits in education, child development, youth development, or related fields preferred.

• Experience working with school-age children in a classroom, camp, or youth development setting.

• Demonstrated skill or interest in at least one enrichment specialty area (arts, STEAM, sports, technology, etc.).

• Warm, patient, energetic, and child-centered approach.

• Strong communication skills and willingness to work collaboratively.

• Ability to maintain a safe and organized learning environment.

Preferred

• Coursework in education, psychology, recreation, the relevant specialty area, or related fields.

• Experience delivering structured enrichment lessons or leading group activities.

• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).

• Familiarity with trauma-informed practices, SEL, and inclusive education.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to stand, walk, sit on the floor, and actively engage with children.

• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally.

• Ability to participate in recreational or movement-based activities depending on specialty area.

WORK SCHEDULE:

• Primarily weekday afternoons during after-school hours.

• Additional hours may be required for training, planning, or family engagement events.

REVISED: 8/19/2026