Plus Peer Leaders- POOL

Center for Public Partnerships & Research; Topeka (KS); On-site; USD 20,664 - 34,440; Part time

Job summary

The Center for Public Partnerships & Research in Topeka, Kansas, is seeking a peer leader for the PLUS program in Biology and Chemistry. The position involves facilitating peer-led discussion sessions under supervision, enhancing student understanding of core concepts.

Applicants should maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 in relevant subjects and possess strong communication skills. Opportunities include hands-on involvement in developing course materials and a supportive learning environment.

Qualifications

• Enroll in no fewer than 6 credit hours during the semester term.
• Prior successful completion of the PLUS course assigned or higher-level courses in the same discipline.

Responsibilities

• Attend lecture classes and required weekly meetings for assigned PLUS group.
• Facilitate PLUS sessions, assisting students with science concepts.
• Participate in developing and evaluating PLUS materials.
• Attend all required PLUS orientation, training, and workshops.
• Establish an encouraging environment for PLUS program activities.
• Report work hours and promote the program at university events.

Skills

Strong written communication skills

Education

Minimum 3.0 GPA in Biology or Chemistry

Job description

Position Overview: The PLUS program manages peer‑led supplemental discussion sessions in Biology and Chemistry. Sessions promote interactive activities to reinforce lecture materials in small groups and bridge gaps between teaching and learning. Work location will be Haworth Hall, Malott Hall, or Gray‑Little Hall.

Job Description

This position works under the supervision of the Director of the PLUS program (BIOL 150/152 & CHEM 130/135) and the Coordinator of the Organic Chemistry PLUS program — Drs. Mark Mort and David Benson.

Responsibilities

• Attend lecture classes and required weekly meetings for assigned PLUS group (40%).

• Facilitate PLUS sessions, assisting students with science concepts in conjunction with lecture materials in Biology or General and Organic Chemistry (40%).

• Participate in developing and evaluating PLUS materials to improve the program (5%).

• Attend all required PLUS orientation, training, and workshops (5%).

• Establish an environment valuing patience, encouragement, and education in all activities associated with the PLUS program (5%).

• Report work hours and complete time‑sheets; provide feedback on PLUS student attendees; promote the program via laboratory class visits and university events (5%).

Position Requirements

• Enroll in no fewer than 6 credit hours during the semester term. For summer periods, must have been enrolled in no less than 6 hours in the past spring semester, be pre‑enrolled in the upcoming fall semester for 6 hours, be enrolled in summer session, or be admitted to study in the upcoming fall semester.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 3.0 GPA in Biology or Chemistry, as evidenced in application materials.
• Strong written communication skills, as evidenced in application materials.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior enrollment and successful completion (grade B or better) of the PLUS course assigned to the student or higher‑level courses in the same discipline.
• Previously attended PLUS sessions before becoming a peer leader.
• Availability to attend lecture classes for at least two consecutive semesters.