Battle Creek Youth Program Specialist

gvsu; Battle Creek (MI); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tuition waiver

Employer retirement contributions

Medical, vision, dental coverage

Job summary

Grand Valley State University in Battle Creek is seeking a program leader to develop and oversee summer camps, after-school initiatives, and the 8th Grade Pathways to GVSU program. You will lead program design, staff management, and community collaboration to support students' growth.

Responsibilities include curriculum development, coordination with schools and university partners, and data-driven assessment of outcomes to expand impact in the Battle Creek area.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Education, Youth Development, or a related field.
• Minimum of three years of dedicated experience in educational program development or youth programs.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities with students, parents, and colleagues.
• Experience with K-12 students in Battle Creek area and diverse populations.

Responsibilities

• Design and oversee summer camp programs for K-12 students.
• Recruit, train, and supervise camp staff and volunteers.
• Ensure safety and regulatory compliance in programs.
• Develop after-school programs and manage logistics.
• Coordinate with teachers, parents, and community partners.
• Monitor program impact and collect attendance data.

Skills

Organizational & project management

Strong communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Educational program development

K-12 student experience

Community engagement

Education

Bachelor's degree in Education or related field

Job description

This position is responsible for developing and overseeing summer camps, after-school programs, and other activities for K-12 students in the Battle Creek area, as well as overseeing the 8th Grade Pathways to GVSU program. This role requires a passionate individual dedicated to creating engaging and educational programs that support students' academic and personal growth.

Salary & Benefits: Minimum starting salary of $60,000, commensurate with experience.

Comprehensive benefits package including medical, vision, dental, life insurance, generous employer retirement contributions, wellness resources and tuition waiver effective on date of hire.

Primary Duties:

Development of Summer Camps:

• Program Design: Design and implement engaging and educational summer camp programs for K-12 students, creating comprehensive schedules, lesson plans, and activities.
• Staff Management: Recruit, train, and supervise camp staff and volunteers, ensuring a high-quality, safe, and enjoyable camp experience.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all summer camp programs comply with relevant safety and health regulations, maintaining a secure environment for all participants.

After-School Program Development:

• Program Development: Develop and oversee after-school programs tailored to the diverse interests and needs of K-12 students, providing enriching and supportive environments.
• Logistical Coordination: Manage program logistics, including location(s), transportation, and materials, to ensure seamless operations.
• Community Collaboration: Collaborate with local organizations and community partners to enhance program offerings and provide comprehensive support to students.
• Impact Assessment: Track attendance and assess the impact of after-school programs on student development, using findings to refine and improve the programs.

8th Grade Pathways to GVSU Program Oversight:

• Leadership: Lead the 8th Grade Pathways to GVSU program in Battle Creek with a focus on addressing the unique needs of students, ensuring it aligns with educational best practices and program objectives.
• Curriculum Development: Develop and implement a dynamic curriculum and engaging activities that support the program's goals and foster student growth.
• Coordination and Collaboration: Facilitate smooth program operations by coordinating with teachers, parents, school administrators, and University stakeholders, Academic Deans for college visits, admissions, financial aid, social justice centers, athletics, and other relevant units.
• Program Evaluation: Monitor and evaluate program effectiveness, using data-driven insights to implement necessary improvements and maintain records of student progress and program participation.
• Expansion Strategies: Explore and execute strategies to expand the program to additional partner schools and community organizations, enhancing the program's reach and impact.

Program Administration:

• Resource Management: Manage budgets and resources effectively, ensuring programs are cost-effective, sustainable, and aligned with financial goals.
• Funding Opportunities: Seek and secure funding opportunities through grants and partnerships to support and expand program initiatives.
• Promotion and Outreach: Promote programs through various channels to ensure high participation rates, engaging the community and stakeholders effectively.
• Data Analysis: Collect and analyze data to report on program outcomes and impact, using insights to drive program enhancements and demonstrate success.

Community Engagement:

• Relationship Building: Foster strong, positive relationships with students, parents, school staff, and community members and organizations, creating a supportive and collaborative network.
• Event Organization: Organize events and activities to showcase student achievements and program successes, highlighting the impact of the programs.
• Liaison Role: Serve as a liaison between the school district and community organizations, facilitating communication and cooperation to support student development and program goals.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Bachelor's degree in Education, Youth Development, or a related field.
• Minimum of three (3) years of dedicated experience in educational program development, youth programs, or related areas, with a proven track record of success.
• Demonstrated expertise in organizational and project management skills, with the ability to oversee multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines consistently.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal abilities, capable of engaging effectively with students, parents, and colleagues.
• Extensive experience working with K-12 students in educational or recreational settings, particularly in the Battle Creek area, fostering a supportive and enriching environment.
• Strong commitment to and experience in working with diverse populations, including first-generation students and low-income learners, ensuring inclusive and equitable educational opportunities.
• Strong abi