LEAP Program Director

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TITLE: LEAP Program Director
CATEGORY: Seasonal
SALARY: $18-20 per hour

BENEFITS: Visit https://www.obtpd.org/employment for a full listing of benefits for this position.

SUMMARY: Under the direct supervision of the Recreation & Fitness Manager, the LEAP Afterschool Director is responsible for supervising, implementing, and evaluating all day-to-day after school activities and administrative duties for the LEAP Program. The LEAP Afterschool Director is a seasonal employee working approximately 20–25 hours per week during the School District 48 school year. LEAP Afterschool runs Monday through Friday from 2:30–6:00pm with additional time provided for set-up, clean-up, and planning. The LEAP Program Director provides a safe, nurturing environment focused on learning, exploration, and play. Work pace is moderate depending on the task required. The Director also oversees LEAP Out of School and LEAP Half-Day programs, including planning, supervising, and implementing recreation-based programming during school holidays, non-attendance days, and half days, while ensuring a consistent, safe, and engaging experience across all LEAP program offerings. Work pace is moderate depending on the task required.

QUALIFICATIONS: The LEAP Program Director should have experience working with school-aged children and/or be pursuing a bachelor’s degree in education, physical education, health, recreation, or a related field. Candidates should have experience planning, implementing, and supervising child-centered programs, with the ability to create engaging, developmentally appropriate activities. Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills are preferred, along with the ability to foster a safe, positive, and inclusive environment for participants.

IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR: The LEAP Program Support Staff is under the supervision of the LEAP Director. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  1. Develop, plan, and gather supplies for activities that incorporate program goals into the daily routine. 
  2. Develop and lead activities that are developmentally appropriate for the ages of the children in the program.
  3. Provide participants with the appropriate leadership during the program. 
  4. Lead, supervise and schedule LEAP Aftercare program staff.
  5. Maintain open communication with School District 48 staff. 
  6. Communicate with the parents through daily pick-up. 
  7. Maintain a safe environment for participants. 
  8. Direct and supervise all LEAP Program Support staff. 
  9. Meet regularly with the Recreation & Fitness Manager to give updates on LEAP program.
  10. Report any problems that may arise with participants, other employees, or the school to the Recreation & Fitness Manager.
  11. Maintain a positive attitude toward co-workers, the Park District, and the school. 
  12. Arrive to LEAP Program with adequate time to prepare for the start of the program 
  13. Use ePACT and registration software to maintain participant records and support program administration.
  14. Maintain records of attendance using daily sign-out sheets. 
  15. Follow and enforce Park District policies and procedures. 

DESIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND TRAITS:

  1. Ability to complete the essential functions of the position.
  2. Knowledge of children and children’s activities.
  3. Excellent communication skills.
  4. Excellent leadership skills.
  5. Willing to acquire First Aid and CPR training in the first two months of employment.
  6. Ability to provide excellent customer service.

MARGINAL FUNCTIONS:

  1. Make recommendations to the Recreation & Fitness Manager for improvement on equipment, supplies, facility, and program needs. 
  2. Set up and cleanup of program. 
  3. Ability to be flexible and adaptable to new situations. 

PSYCHOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS: The LEAP Program Director may feel added pressure from the day-to-day responsibilities while also assisting staff, participants, and parents. The LEAP Program Director must remain calm and be able to address problems and issues that arise. The LEAP Program Director must be a good problem solver and able to develop creative responses to problems. 

PHYSIOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS: The LEAP Program Director must be able to bend, stoop, lift items weighing up to 40 pounds, turn, sit, and stand for short or extended periods of time. 

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS: The LEAP Program Director may be exposed to elements when participating in outdoor activities with participants. Some activities are performed indoors.

COGNITIVE CONSIDERATIONS: The LEAP Program Director must exhibit good problem-solving ability and good judgment in keeping with the mission of the Park District. The LEAP Program Director must be in compliance with the loss prevention and safety policies of the Park District.

To apply for this opportunity: Email your resume to Jen Saylor at jen@obtpd.org.

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