Program Instructor

OAKLAND LEAF FOUNDATION; Oakland (CA); On-site; USD 29,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Oakland Leaf Foundation is seeking a Program Instructor to support academic and social-emotional learning for K–8 students in Oakland, CA. You will design and lead daily lessons reflecting our mission and instructional standards, creating a nurturing, structured environment.

The role requires delivering engaging, project-based instruction, managing routines, and collaborating with the Site Program Manager to ensure program success and inclusive student support.

Qualifications

• Negative TB test.
• DOJ and FBI background check clearance.
• Strong classroom and behavior management using restorative practices.
• Skilled in professional communication, active listening, and relationship-building.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily academic and enrichment sessions using engaging, age-appropriate, project-based approaches.
• Create a structured, supportive learning environment that fosters creativity, curiosity, and social-emotional growth.
• Establish consistent routines and classroom culture aligned with Oakland Leaf’s instructional and behavioral standards.
• Integrate SEL into instruction and student interactions.
• Use a warm-demander approach to guide behavior with empathy and accountability.
• Complete administrative tasks—attendance, reports, and surveys—accurately and on time.
• Participate in trainings, meetings, and professional development.
• Support site operations, events, and classroom coverage as needed.
• Perform other duties assigned by the Site Program Manager.

Skills

Classroom management

Restorative practices

Active listening

Relationship-building

Communication

Critical thinking

Problem-solving

Flexible

Team collaboration

Youth engagement

Education

48 college semester units or equivalent

Job description

Job Details

Job Location: Cleveland - Oakland, CA 94606

Education Level: High School

Salary Range: $21.00 - $26.00 Hourly

Job Category: Education

Summary of Position

The Program Instructor supports the academic and social-emotional learning of students in Oakland Leaf’s programs by delivering both academic support and enrichment instruction. This role focuses on creating a nurturing, structured, and engaging environment. The Program Instructor is responsible for designing and leading daily lessons that reflect Oakland Leaf’s mission and instructional standards. This position reports to the site-specific Program Manager.

Specific Duties & Responsibilities

• Lead daily academic and enrichment sessions using engaging, age-appropriate, and project-based approaches
• Create a structured, supportive learning environment that fosters creativity, curiosity, and social-emotional growth
• Establish consistent routines and classroom culture aligned with Oakland Leaf’s instructional and behavioral standards
• Integrate Social Emotional Learning (SEL) into instruction and student interactions
• Use a warm-demander approach to guide behavior with empathy and accountability
• Complete administrative tasks—attendance, reports, and surveys—accurately and on time
• Participate in trainings, meetings, and professional development
• Support site operations, events, and classroom coverage as needed
• Perform other duties assigned by the Site Program Manager

Placement/Program Setting

This position may be assigned to an elementary or middle school site, depending on program needs and the instructor’s experience. Instructors are expected to be flexible and prepared to work with students across K–8 grade levels. Moreover, instructors are expected to adjust content, classroom culture, behavior, and engagement strategies based on the age group being served.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Demonstrated alignment with Oakland Leaf’s mission, core values, and youth-centered approach
• Negative TB test
• DOJ and FBI background check clearance
• Strong classroom and behavior management using restorative practices
• Skilled in professional communication , active listening, and relationship-building
• Critical thinking and calm, solution-oriented problem-solving
• Reliable, flexible, and collaborative in fast-paced environments
• Comfort working with youth across diverse ages, backgrounds, and needs

Education & Experience

• Experience: Managing and engaging groups of up to 20 K–8 students with ability to plan and deliver interactive, age-appropriate lessons.
• Education: 48 college semester units or a passing score on the Instructional Aide exam

Working conditions/physical demands

• Normal school conditions
• Offsite meetings
• Required to work some nights for events
• Must be able to lift up to 25lb