Afterschool Activity Specialist- Dance (Brooklyn)

RiseMe; New York (NY); On-site; USD 14,000 - 20,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Community-oriented culture

Creative and flexible environment

Collaborative and mission-driven team

Job summary

LEAP seeks a passionate Activity Specialist with a focus on the Arts to lead after-school programs across partner NYC schools. You will design and deliver dance- and arts-infused activities, fostering experiential learning and student growth.

The role emphasizes hands-on, age-appropriate instruction, collaboration with school staff, and commitment to safety and inclusive education. Strong communication and teamwork are essential.

Qualifications

• 2 years of experience working with youth in classroom or group settings.
• Experience instructing youth in the arts.
• Familiarity with students with disabilities and English language learners.
• Passion for inclusion and advocacy in the arts.
• Ability to pass NYS SACC clearances and background checks.

Responsibilities

• Develop age- and skill-appropriate activities that fuse arts and academics.
• Engage participants to develop artistic, educational, and leadership skills.
• Ensure safety and policy compliance across participants and sites.
• Attend meetings, trainings, and events to enhance knowledge and skills.

Skills

Arts education

Youth engagement

Dance instruction

Program coordination

Communication

Education

College degree in Arts or Education

Job description

Job Title: Activity Specialist

Job Classification: Part-Time

Reports to: Program Director

Location: P.S. 377K- Alejandrina B. De Gautier

Job Type: On-Site

Work Schedule: Monday, Tuesday, & Friday (Generally: 2:00pm-5:30pm)

Weekly Hours/ Week: 10.5

FLSA Status: Non-exempt

Hourly Rate: $25

Why You’ll Love Working at LEAP

• Community-oriented, believing in a shared moral responsibility

• Creative, flexible, and open-minded

• Collaborative and mission driven

• Accountable to ourselves, each other, and our goals

• Committed to feedback and clear, consistent communication

• Champions of a compassionate and inclusive culture

• Supporters of self-care and the well‑being of others

• And above all… FUN!

At LEAP, you’ll be empowered to grow, lead, and make a lasting impact — all while being part of a community that values who you are and what you bring.

About the Role

We are seeking passionate, experienced Activity Specialists with a vested interest in arts and academic integration for long term teaching opportunities at our partner schools in all five boroughs. Activity specialists must have demonstrated previous experience in their trained specialty, ideally in NYC public school settings. We are seeking educators who share our belief in the power of experiential learning. LEAP Activity Specialists act as the lead instructors in LEAP after school programs. If you love working with children in the Arts, then this a great opportunity to share your passion for the Arts in our afterschool programs, summer programs and special projects in various areas.

Specialty Area: Dance

What You’ll Do

• Work with program staff to prepare & develop age, and skill appropriate specialized activities (STEM, dance, visual arts, etc.) that fuse the arts & academics

• Engage participants in developing their artistic, educational, & leadership skills

• Work with program leaders, school administrators, and various staff to ensure the safety & security of all participants and that all policies are being complied with

• Attend staff meetings, professional development opportunities, training sessions, & special events to enhance knowledge & skills, as required, inclusive of those outside program hours

What You’ll Bring

We seek a creative and engaging activity specialist with experience leading structured activities in areas like sports, arts, or STEM, who can foster a positive, inclusive environment while developing students’ skills.

Core Competencies & Strengths

• Expertise in a Specialized Area: Ability to develop & deliver age-appropriate, hand‑on, and interactive activities & lesson plans; Strong knowledge & passion in area of expertise

• Child Development & Behavior Management: Understanding of child development stages & the diverse needs of students; effective classroom management & behavioral management skills; ability to implement positive reinforcement techniques & address behavioral issues with empathy & support

• Communication & Collaboration: Excellent verbal & written communication skills; ability to build & maintain positive relationships with various stakeholders, departments, & staff; collaborate effectively with program leaders & other staff; clear & transparent communication

• Planning & Organization: Ability to develop lesson plans & organize materials needed for activities

• Problem-Solving & Decision Making Skills: Ability to identify problems and make decisions in a timely manner

• Safety & Supervision: Prioritizing safety, knowledge of procedures, active supervision, & emergency preparedness

• Positive Role Modeling & Mentorship: Demonstrate positive behaviors & provide guidance, support, & encouragement to others; fostering personal & professional growth

• Professional Development & Adaptability: Commitment to continuous learning & professional development; adaptability & flexibility to meet needs of youth.

Required Qualifications:

• 2 years of experience working with youth in a classroom or group setting

• Experience successfully instructing youth in the arts

• College degree in the Arts or Education, or equivalent experience

• Familiarity working with Students with Disabilities and English Language Learners

• Passion for inclusion and advocacy in the arts

• Enjoy working with youth in a team environment

• Effective writing, communication, and interpersonal skills

• Must be punctual, responsible, resilient, and reliable

• Self-motivated, highly efficient, and able to problem-solve

• Able to pass all NYS SACC clearances and background checks inclusive of a work physical and TB

PRE-EMPLOYMENT SCREENING

Pre-employment screening is required for this position, including but not limited to criminal history checks by regulating agencies as needed per placement.

WE ARE AN EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Please note: In accordance with organizational policy, LEAP does not sponsor individuals on O-1 visas.