Ulysses Unified School District 214

USD 214 Ulysses is seeking a highly motivated, organized, and passionate individual to serve as the After-School Program Director. This vital role will lead and manage our comprehensive "Tiger Trails" After-School Program, providing a safe, engaging, and enriching environment for students in Kindergarten through 5th grade after regular school hours. The Director will be responsible for upholding the district's mission to cultivate a learning community where all students engage in learning, strive for excellence, and are supported to achieve their fullest potential.

Position Purpose:

The After-School Program Director is responsible for the overall planning, implementation, and evaluation of the USD 214 Tiger Trails After-School Program. This includes ensuring a high-quality, safe, and engaging experience for all participating students, managing staff, maintaining program compliance, and fostering strong relationships with students, parents, school staff, and community partners.

Key Responsibilities:

• Program Leadership & Development:

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the Tiger Trails After-School Program, ensuring a safe, positive, and structured environment.
• Develop and implement engaging and age-appropriate curriculum and activities focusing on areas such as arts and crafts, career exploration, cultural enrichment, health/wellness, and character building.
• Continuously assess program effectiveness and implement improvements based on student needs, feedback, and best practices.
• Explore and integrate creative ways to engage students in learning activities beyond traditional classroom settings.
• Ensure the program adheres to all USD 214 rules, policies, and regulations.

• Recruit, hire, train, and supervise all after-school program staff (Certified Teachers, Adult Helpers, High School Helpers, Volunteers, Site Coordinators).
• Provide ongoing professional development and support to staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team.
• Maintain appropriate staff-to-student ratios (ideally 1:10) to ensure quality care and safety.
• Conduct regular staff meetings and performance evaluations.

• Create an inclusive and supportive environment where all students feel safe, important, and inspired.
• Oversee student registration, attendance, and dismissal procedures.
• Address student behavioral issues in a positive and constructive manner, in accordance with district policies.
• Ensure that homework assistance is effectively provided to students.

• Foster strong communication and positive relationships with parents/guardians, encouraging their active participation in the program.
• Collaborate with daytime teachers to ensure continuity of learning and address individual student needs.
• Actively seek and maintain cooperation with all community entities, businesses, and organizations for volunteer support and program enrichment.
• Serve as the primary liaison between the after-school program, school administration, and the Advisory Council.

• Manage the program budget, ensuring responsible allocation and expenditure of funds.
• Maintain accurate and detailed program documentation, including attendance records, activity logs, incident reports, and grant-related information.
• Assist the Advisory Council in exploring venues to sustain the Tiger Trails After-School Program, particularly in relation to grant funding and long-term sustainability.
• Prepare and submit all required reports to the district and grant-funding agencies.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Education, Child Development, Recreation, or a related field required. Master's degree preferred.
• Experience:
  • Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in youth program management, after-school program coordination, or a similar leadership role.
  • Experience supervising and managing staff in an educational or youth-serving setting.
  • Proven experience in curriculum development and program planning.
• Skills & Abilities:
  • Strong leadership, organizational, and time management skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate with diverse audiences (students, parents, staff, community).
  • Ability to inspire and motivate students and staff.
  • Demonstrated ability to build positive relationships and foster a cooperative work environment.
  • Knowledge of child development principles and best practices for after-school programming.
  • Proficiency in using technology for administrative tasks, communication, and program management.
  • Ability to maintain composure and perform responsibilities under pressure.
  • CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire).

Working Conditions:

• Primarily works in a school environment during after-school hours.
• May involve occasional evening or weekend hours for special events or meetings.
• Physical demands may include standing, walking, bending, and lifting up to 25 pounds.

Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit an online application through the USD 214 Ulysses website, including a letter of interest, resume, and contact information for three professional references.

USD 214 Ulysses is an Equal Employment/Educational Opportunity Agency and does not discriminate based on sex, race, color, national origin, disability, or age in admission or access to, or treatment or employment, its programs or activities.