Lead Maker/Art Teacher - After School

Lead Maker/Art Teacher - After School GaragePod Dobbs Ferry, NY Job Details Part-time $30 - $35 an hour 18 hours ago Benefits 401(k) Paid time off Qualifications Teamwork Bachelor's degree Working with students Arts Full Job Description About the Role GaragePod is looking for a strong, creative lead teacher, someone who is genuinely at home with their hands and confident leading a room full of children. You naturally gravitate toward materials like paint, clay, fabric, food, wire, or cardboard - using them to create meaningful experiences for children. At the same time, you bring structure, consistency, and clear expectations to the group, creating an environment that feels both calm and alive. You understand that children need more than passive activities. They need real engagement, challenge, and the chance to make things that matter. This role is built for a thoughtful educator who takes children seriously and can hold that balance every day. What You'll Do Community & Culture Know every child individually — their personalities, routines, and what makes them feel at home Greet students as they arrive off the bus and check them into our attendance system Lead a daily group meeting that brings the community together and sets the tone for the afternoon Actively build GaragePod culture — model the values, energy, and spirit that make this place feel like theirs Encourage creativity, play, and self-expression as core parts of every day — not just during structured time Communicate warmly and proactively with families through our parent app Enrichment Plan and lead a daily main activity rooted in arts, crafts, sensory exploration, or cooking, aligned with group interests and weekly themes Design activities that are age-appropriate, hands-on, and genuinely engaging for 3rd-5th graders Bring creativity and variety — no two weeks should feel the same Use the Main Activity to build skills, spark curiosity, and deepen the culture of the space Program Operations Manage daily check-in and check-out with care and accuracy Set up and clean up snack, maintaining a tidy and welcoming environment Maintain strong supervision and awareness of children at all times Supervise children both indoors and outdoors, including active use of our outdoor spaces, with a strong focus on safety, awareness, and engagement Support transitions between activities and ensure the program runs smoothly each day Planning & Collaboration Plan activities in advance with clear intention Input plans into a shared master calendar to keep the program coordinated Check in regularly with your supervisor to align on programming and growth Attend monthly staff meetings What We're Looking For 2+ years of experience working with children in a structured setting (classroom, after school, camp, or similar) A confident, grounded presence — someone who can lead a group of 3rd-5th graders with clarity, consistency, and warmth Strong judgment and the ability to manage behavior while maintaining a calm, respectful environment A genuine love for working with kids ages 8-11 A hands-on creative practice you're excited to share (art, building, cooking, crafting, etc.) — not just ideas, but real making Comfortable with basic technology and quick to learn new systems Clear, professional communication with children, families, and colleagues Reliable, organized, and able to follow through on daily responsibilities Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree or advanced training preferred (education, arts, engineering, child development, or similar hands-on disciplines) Schedule & Compensation Schedule & Compensation Part-time, Monday-Friday (follows Springhurst Elementary School calendar) Typical hours: approximately 2:30-6:15pm Some days follow modified hours due to early release or half days Monthly staff meetings are required Additional hours available for planning, meetings, and special events Hourly rate: $30-$35, based on experience This is a school-year position, with the opportunity to return each year and grow within the program. Benefits Eligible employees may participate in GaragePod's 401(k) plan after one year of service, including employer matching Benefits eligibility varies by role and hours worked and is outlined in the employee handbook About GaragePod GaragePod is an after-school program built around creativity, play, and real-world experiences. We prioritize making, conversation, and time together.

Pay:

$30.00 - $35.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) Paid time off

Education:

Bachelor's (Preferred)

Work Location:

In person