Creative Arts Instructors Summer 2015 (SCAW)
Company: Park District of Oak Park
Location: Oak Park, IL
Date Posted: November 29, 2014
Source: Park District of Oak Park
The Creative Arts Instructor leads and acts as a role model to a group of children in a specific area of visual or performing arts. Instructors develop and engage campers in specific visual art or performing art lessons and activities while enforcing Park District rules and ensuring the safety of campers, staff and the public. A high priority is placed on communication, organization, and risk management with this position.
Essential Functions
• Instruct four 50 minute visual or performing art lessons daily per age and medium assignment
• Guide and develop campers’ individual talents to create quality visual art pieces/dance performances/theatrical performances for the end of the session showcase
• Participate in end of season clean up, inventory, and storage of equipment
• Monitor and maintain the safety of all campers
• Communicate with parents/guardians about daily activities and camper progress
• Set and enforce camp rules and expectations
• Understand, communicate, and enforce Park District rules and policies to campers and the public
• Attend all staff meetings and training programs as specified
• Create detailed lesson plans and calendars that include a variety of age appropriate activities to keep campers and staff active, excited, safe, and engaged
• Instruct lessons based on proper technique per assigned medium, lead the daily schedule, as well as initiate spontaneous activities to accommodate agenda conflicts/changes
• Address any staff or camper behavior/disciplinary issues with the appropriate individuals
• Inventory camp and first aid supplies; requisition as needed
• Provide excellent customer service and maintain a positive public image by addressing questions and concerns from staff, patrons, participants, and parents immediately
• Keep program supplies, equipment, and facility space clean and organized
• Manage allotted budget and retain receipts
• Become familiar with participants and parents; know their names, personalities, skills and interests
• Identify and observe equipment daily for possible maintenance needs and adjustments; report maintenance needs to Coordinator
• Complete all paperwork as required including, but not limited to reports and logs
• Wear Park District staff shirt and identification during all work hours
Additional Functions
• Occasionally assist with events and programs
• Complete other duties as assigned by Supervisor or other Park District administration
• Model and promote good leadership and teamwork in campers; prepare lessons and/or discussions on these topics that correlate with weekly activities
• Assist with coordinating a visual arts or performing arts showcase during the last day of camp as an evening event for parents (2 sessions)
Knowledge, Skill, and Work Experience
Required
• Must be at least 19 years of age
• Must obtain CPR & First Aid Certification
• Must obtain Mandated Reporter Certification
• Knowledge of age-appropriate art and/or recreational activities
• Must be organized, responsible, professional, and able to coordinate a wide variety of activities each week
• Must have the ability to solve problems as they arise and be able to perform tasks without direct supervision
• Must possess basic knowledge of a variety of age appropriate activities or skills applicable to camp assignment: General Recreation, Sports, Swim & Skate, Teens/Counselors in Training, or Special Interests/Arts
• Must be highly motivated and able to assume a positive and active role in the camp, even while working under potentially stressful conditions (hot or cold weather, upset or injured participants, etc.)
• Must have the ability to be firm with participants when necessary, enforce park district rules, and make sound decisions in order to secure the safety and well-being of all campers, facilities, and equipment
Recommended
• 2 years of college majoring in visual art or performing art; B.A. in Visual or Performing arts or 4 years instructing youth in visual or theater arts preferred
• Experience working with youth, especially in a recreation, visual arts or performing arts setting, preferred
• Experience in planning and implementing daily lesson plans
Physical Considerations
• Frequent walking, running, standing, reaching, bending.
• Must be able to lift up to 35 lbs.
• Majority of work is in the classroom; however summer conditions may cause an affect
Environmental Considerations
Will be exposed to occasional inclement weather including heat, humidity, and rain.
Cognitive Considerations
• Ability to work independently without supervision
• Ability to present ideas and recommendations in a concise manner
• Ability to understand and carry out verbal and/or written instructions efficiently and effectively and to read and understand printed material
• Ability to operate assigned equipment
• Ability to effectively interact and communicate well with others
• Ability to interpret and explain division and District policies and procedures
• Ability to follow safety guidelines and exercise judgment in all aspects of responsibility
• Ability to resolve conflict safely, calmly and effectively
Hours and Compensation:
• Pre-Season: Roughly 25 hours of pre-camp training in late May/Early-June
• June-August: 30 hours a week M-F based on prep & class time; Art Workshop hours are between 8-12pm
• $14+DOQ
Customers:
Internal: Employees of Park District; Board of Park Commissioners
External: Patrons of Park District of Oak Park; residents of Oak Park, WSSRA, Partner Organizations including governmental and non-profit groups, and the Oak Park Business Community
This job description is intended to be an illustrative, and not an exhaustive, listing of experiences, skills and duties of this position.
The Park District is an Equal Opportunity Employer!
For more information and to apply, click HERE.