Job Title: Program Director – After-School Program
Location: Hunters Point Community Middle School, Long Island City, NY
Program Population: 100 middle school students (Grades 6–8) | DYCD-funded
Position Summary
82nd Street Academics seeks a dynamic and experienced full-time Program Director to launch and lead our after-school program at Hunters Point Community Middle School. This high-impact program offers academic support, arts and enrichment, and strong family engagement, serving approximately 100 students. The Program Director will oversee daily operations, supervise a staff team, and work closely with school leadership and community partners to ensure high-quality, engaging programming that meets the diverse needs of youth and families. This is a full-time, in-person position from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Some virtual work is permitted when schools are not in session. Regular participation in senior staff meetings and professional development is expected.
Key Responsibilities:
Leadership & Staff Supervision
- Recruit, develop, and manage a high-performing team of 10-14 staff members.
- Conduct regular classroom visits and quarterly performance appraisals.
- Review lesson plans two weeks in advance to ensure alignment with program goals and DYCD requirements.
- Ensure coaches are equipped with necessary supplies and support for successful program implementation.
Program Development & Quality
- Design, implement, and evaluate curricula and enrichment activities in collaboration with school officials and community partners.
- Promote a culture of academic excellence, ensuring students complete homework accurately and are supported in achieving top-third academic performance.
- Provide strategic leadership to support a college-going culture through exploration activities and post-secondary awareness.
Community & Stakeholder Engagement
- Build and maintain strong relationships with parents, school leaders, community organizations, and local businesses.
- Serve as the primary liaison to DYCD, the Department of Education, and the Department of Health.
- Ensure the program meets all regulatory requirements and is inspection-ready at all times.
Data & Compliance
- Monitor program performance and use data to assess impact and drive continuous improvement.
- Ensure full compliance with all DYCD, DOE, and DOH regulations and reporting requirements.
- Manage program budget and contribute to grant writing and fundraising efforts as needed.
Communication & Parent Engagement
- Provide timely, professional communication with parents, especially when concerns arise.
- Uphold high standards of customer service, modeling a respectful and supportive tone with all stakeholders.
- Promote attendance, safety, and adherence to policies among students and staff.
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Education, Youth Development, or a related field
- At least 2 years of experience in youth programming, ideally in a leadership role
- Experience working with middle school populations in an educational or youth development setting
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, both written and verbal
- Demonstrated ability to lead teams and manage staff performance
- Familiarity with STEM or enrichment curricula and project-based learning
- Knowledge of DYCD compliance and reporting protocols
- Experience managing program budgets and partnerships
- Bilingual fluency (preferred, based on community served)
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in data analysis and program evaluation
- Familiarity with college access programming for middle school students
- Strong connections or ability to develop partnerships with local businesses, mentors, and organizations for youth enrichment
Join our team and help shape a program that empowers students to grow academically, socially, and emotionally while preparing them for a college-going future. 82nd Street Academics is proud to serve our community and is committed to equity, excellence, and engagement.
