Part Time Program Manager - Ottawa, IL

Right At School; Ottawa (IL); On-site; USD 28,929 - 34,440; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Health & Wellness plans

401(k) with Company match

Free childcare enrollment

Job summary

Right At School is seeking a Program Manager for the 2026-2027 school year to lead before and after school programs in Ottawa, Illinois. This role involves ensuring safety and joy while guiding a team and managing educational activities tailored for children.

Ideal candidates will possess a high school diploma or GED and at least a year of experience with children. Benefits include health insurance, a 401(k) plan, and childcare discounts.

Qualifications

• At least 1 year of verifiable experience working with children under 13 years of age in a childcare/school setting.
• Knowledge of unique and special needs.
• Coursework or training in child development and/or related field preferred.

Responsibilities

• Exhibit role model qualities to ensure safety and joy.
• Support and report on safety protocols.
• Prepare activities and curriculum for the day.
• Maintain a safe and nurturing environment.
• Effective communication with children, parents, and staff.

Skills

Experience with competing priorities

Communication skills

Familiarity with Google technology software

Ability to model professional standards

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Job Description

NOW HIRING FOR THE 2026 - 2027 SCHOOL YEAR!

Right At School - a place to be a kid!

Program Manager

Right At School provides local school districts before and after school extended day programs with a focus on disguised learning activities and daily enrichment dedicated to the success of all students! Right At School's mission emphasizes a commitment to inspire a love of learning, support schools, and give families peace of mind. We do this by building a team of mission-driven individuals who are passionate about fostering a love of learning and creating safe, engaging experiences for children. Our vision is to bring exceptional, affordable programs to as many students, families, and schools as possible while providing a safe environment for children to explore and grow.

Position Details

• Pay Rate: $21-$25 per hour (based on education and experience)
• Location: Ottawa Elementary School District
• Schedule: Monday - Friday, Before School 6:30 am - 8:15 am and/or After School 2:45 pm - 5:30 pm

You’ll drive the mission by:

• Safety & Joy: Exhibits role model qualities ensuring safety and joy standards are met by supporting a clear understanding of the roles and responsibilities to a team of staff members. Supports operational efficiency by keeping site documents and licensing standards up to date. Outlines attendance protocols, behavior policies, safety procedures, and ensures program tasks are completed effectively. Continual coaching, fostering respectful relationships among staff to address any challenges or issues promptly to maintain team cohesion, and productivity.
• Safety Assurance: Consistently support and report on safety protocols to ensure the well-being of all participants.
• Daily Program Meetings: Each day, review goals and updates, share ideas, discuss professional progress, encourage collaboration and team accountability.
• Organize and Facilitate Daily Activities: Prepare activities and curriculum for the day, ensuring they align with the program's objectives. Organize and lead structured daily fitness, activities, and curriculum that are both educational and enjoyable for all ages.
• Leading by Example: Maintain a safe and nurturing environment, ensuring children are enjoying themselves while also meeting program goals. You will achieve this by modeling positive guidance and effective classroom management.
• Prioritize Safety and Joy: Monitor the environment, address potential hazards, and follow all safety protocols. These may include documenting attendance, incidents, and other observations.
• Communication: Effective communication with a varied audience, including children, parents, staff, and school personnel.

Benefits Offered with Right At School

• Health & Wellness: Medical/Virtual Care, Dental and Vision Insurance Plans
• Pet Health: Pet discount programs and pet insurance
• Physical Wellness: Supplemental Insurance (e.g. Short & Long Term Disability)
• Financial Wellness: 401(k) with Company match & free financial coaching
• Protection & Support: Legal service, identity theft, and Transit/parking savings plans, Employee Assistance Program
• Childcare: Free or discounted enrollment in our before/after school programs is offered to Right At School team members within participating facilities
• Additional Perks: Free NAA Professional Membership, TicketsAtWork Perks Program, and Cell phone discounts

Ideal Candidates will have the following:

• Experience with working amongst competing priorities and delivering quality service to all stakeholders
• High school diploma or GED completed
• Experience working with children and knowledge of unique and special needs
• Coursework or training in child development and/or related field (preferred not required)
• Communication skills; oral, written, and visual with adults and children
• Ability to model professional standards when dealing with students, parents, staff, and community
• Familiarity with Google technology software or willingness to learn

Requirements:

• Ability to meet state-specific requirements;
• At least 1 year of verifiable experience working with children under 13 years of age in a childcare/school setting
• First Aid and CPR-in-person (if required-ability to obtain within 30 days of employment)
• Cleared tuberculosis test (if required-ability to obtain within 30 days of employment)
• Proof of MMR (if required can documentation can be provided)
• 18+ years of age
• Proof of High School diploma/GED required

*All benefits and perks available, have their own eligibility criteria that must be met.

Right At School is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, military or veteran status, gender identity or expression, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law.