School-Age Site Lead

YMCA of Rock River Valley; Rockford (IL); On-site; USD 21,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

YMCA of Rock River Valley in Rockford, IL is seeking a School-Age Site Lead to oversee after-school and summer camp programs. You will guide a staff team to deliver high-quality programming that supports students' academic, recreational, and social-emotional growth, while ensuring a safe, inclusive environment and strong family and school partnerships.

This role may travel between program sites and requires flexibility, strong organization, and commitment to youth development.

Qualifications

• Minimum age of 18
• Minimum High School Diploma or GED preferred
• 1-year related leadership experience in a childcare setting preferred
• Gateways Child Development Health & Safety, IL DCFS Child Abuse and Neglect/Mandated Reporter trainings required
• CACFP/SFSP Training required within 90 days
• CPR, AED and First Aid Certifications required within 90 days
• Current Praesidium Academy trainings

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day operations of before and/or after school program sites during the school year
• Supervise, mentor, and support site staff to ensure strong program quality and teamwork
• Supervise activities, including swimming and water-based programs, to ensure participant safety
• Develop daily schedules and manage student groupings, rosters, and attendance records
• Complete required reports, paperwork, incident documentation, and compliance records accurately
• Use positive behavior strategies to create a respectful, inclusive, and well-managed environment
• Maintain site supplies, equipment, and clean, organized program spaces
• Attend trainings, meetings, and communicate concerns to leadership promptly
• Follow YMCA policies, state regulations, and report safety concerns as needed

Education

High School Diploma or GED preferred

Job description

YOUR IMPACT

The School-Age Site Lead position requires a dedicated and enthusiastic individual who is capable of overseeing the daily operations of after school programs, as well as summer camp activities. The Site Lead will inspire and guide a team of staff to deliver high-quality, engaging programming that supports the academic, recreational, and social/emotional development of youth. This role requires a strong commitment to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all participants, along with excellent organizational skills and a collaborative approach to building positive relationships with families, school leadership, and the broader community ensuring programs operate smoothly and consistently. Regardless of primary assignment, this position may be required to travel between program sites as needed.

WHAT YOUR DAY MAY LOOK LIKE

No two days are the same in this role — but every day centers on leading a high-quality youth program, supporting staff, building family and school partnerships, and creating a safe, engaging environment where children can thrive.

• Lead day-to-day operations of before and/or after school program sites during the school year
• Serve as Site Lead or Group Leader during no school days and summer camp programs as assigned
• Supervise, mentor, and support site staff to ensure strong program quality and teamwork
• Actively engage with youth through academic, recreational, and social-emotional programming
• Supervise all activities, including swimming and water-based programs, to ensure participant safety
• Develop daily schedules and manage student groupings, rosters, and attendance records
• Complete required reports, paperwork, incident documentation, and compliance records accurately
• Use positive behavior strategies to create a respectful, inclusive, and well-managed environment
• Maintain site supplies, equipment, and clean, organized program spaces
• Build strong relationships with families through communication and engagement opportunities
• Partner with school leadership to support successful site operations and collaboration
• Identify opportunities for improvement and implement strategies to strengthen programming
• Attend trainings, meetings, and communicate concerns to leadership promptly
• Follow all YMCA policies, state regulations, and report safety concerns as needed

If you’re a hands‑on leader who enjoys working with youth, supporting teams, and creating programs where children succeed every day — this role is for you.

SCHEDULE & COMPENSATION: 4 Positions

POSITION 1, 2 & 3: RPS and Harlem Districts

Part Time, Non-Exempt
Monday - Friday 1:30- 5:45 pm
First Wednesday of the Month Meeting 6:15 - 7:15pm (Good Shepherd YMCA)
$15.75 per hour

This is a Year-Round Position with hours subject to change for School's Out Days and during summer months.

POSITION 4: Belvidere Family YMCA

Part Time, Non-Exempt
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 1:30 - 6:00 pm
Wednesday 12:30 - 6:00 pm
Starting at $15.75 per hour

This is a Year-Round Position with hours subject to change for School's Out Days and during summer months.

WORK LOCATION

This position may serve schools in these districts: RPS 205, Harlem 122, Pecatonica, Winnebago, Belvidere and Poplar Grove. Placements will be determined at time of hire.

Regardless of primary assignment, this position may be required to travel between sites as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum age of 18
• Minimum High School Diploma or GED preferred
• 1-year related experience of leadership in a childcare setting preferred
• Training required upon hire: Gateways Child Development Health & Safety, IL DCFS Child Abuse and Neglect/Mandated Reporter. Any additional certifications that are required by the state of Illinois
• CACFP/SFSP Training required within 90 days
• CPR, AED and First Aid Certifications required within 90 days
• Current Praesidium Academy trainings

The Y is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We offer more than just a job, rather the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of those around you.

The Y: We're for Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility