[Summer 2025] Enrichment Specialist

The Summer 2025 Enrichment Specialist at DREAM is responsible for designing and delivering imaginative and engaging lesson plans for various enrichment activities tailored to students in grades Pre-K to 5. This role involves maintaining a cohesive learning environment in collaboration with Youth Workers, encouraging positive youth participation, and embedding literacy into all lessons. Additionally, the Enrichment Specialist will prepare materials prior to activities and facilitate clean-up afterwards, all while ensuring adherence to health and safety protocols.

To qualify for the Summer 2025 Enrichment Specialist role at DREAM, candidates must be at least 18 years old and possess a high school diploma. While a bachelor’s degree or certification in a related field is preferred, at least 2 years of experience working with youth is essential. Candidates should demonstrate a clear passion for the specialty area, effective youth development strategies, and have strong organizational and communication skills.

DREAM prioritizes the professional development of its team members, especially through the DREAM Teaching Fellowship. High-performing part-time staff, such as Enrichment Specialists, can apply for this fellowship that allows them to earn a Master's degree and transition into full-time teaching roles at DREAM, further enhancing their educational impact and career growth amidst a supportive work culture.

The Summer 2025 Enrichment Specialist position at DREAM consists of working Monday to Thursday from 12:30 PM to 5:00 PM. This part-time role runs from June 20 to August 1, 2025, providing an opportunity to transform summer learning experiences for youth during their out-of-school time.

DREAM offers competitive benefits to part-time employees, including a 403(b) retirement plan with employer matching, disability benefits, and referral bonuses. Additionally, employees have access to an Employee Discount Program that provides savings on travel, entertainment, and retail, enhancing their overall employment experience at the organization.

When designing an enrichment lesson plan for young students, start with a clear learning objective that aligns with their interests. Incorporate hands-on activities, ensure the materials are prepared in advance, and plan for a fun, engaging introduction that grabs their attention. Don't forget to tailor your approach to meet varied learning styles and embed literacy elements throughout the session.

In managing challenging behavior, my approach focuses on understanding the underlying issue. For example, I once dealt with a student who was disruptive during an activity. I took time to speak with them privately, learned they felt disengaged, and modified the activity to better match their interests. This not only resolved the behavior but also fostered a collaborative environment.

Engagement strategies include interactive storytelling, group challenges, and incorporating elements of competition that capture attention. Also, using technology or hands-on activities can foster excitement. Regularly ask questions to encourage participation and allow students to take the lead, fostering a sense of ownership in their learning.

To ensure inclusivity, I design activities that accommodate different learning styles and abilities. This includes providing multiple ways for students to participate and showing sensitivity to the varied backgrounds of the participants. Offering choices in activities allows students to engage in ways they feel most comfortable, ensuring everyone feels valued and included.

Collaboration is essential as it creates a unified experience for students. By working closely with Youth Workers and other team members, we can align our efforts, share insights, and build a cohesive program that improves the overall learning experience. Regularly communicating and planning together helps refine our approach and address any challenges effectively.

Modeling professional behavior involves demonstrating respect, enthusiasm, and punctuality. I consistently show and discuss the importance of teamwork, effective communication, and conflict resolution. By treating all students equally and maintaining boundaries, I encourage them to develop similar attitudes and behaviors in their interactions.

In case of a safety incident, my immediate priority would be to ensure the safety of all participants, assessing the situation quickly while maintaining calm. I would follow established protocols, document the incident accurately, and communicate with necessary staff. Post-incident, I would reflect on what happened to improve future safety measures.

Incorporating literacy into enrichment activities is vital as it reinforces language skills in a fun context. I design activities that require reading instructions or storytelling elements, enabling students to practice literacy naturally. This holistic approach to learning enhances both academic and social skills while maintaining engagement.

I once had a student who was hesitant to participate in art activities. I introduced them to a project where they could express their unique perspective using various mediums. By giving them the freedom to choose materials, they slowly opened up and produced remarkable work. Witnessing their transformation was inspiring, and I believe it rooted a love for creative expression in them.

I want to work as an Enrichment Specialist at DREAM because I deeply share the organization’s commitment to empowering youth through diverse learning experiences. The mission resonates with my passion for education and community development. I believe that every child deserves the tools to succeed and I’m eager to be part of a team that promotes inclusivity and personal growth.