School-Age Group Leader (RPS and Harlem)
YMCA of Rock River Valley, Inc.
Rockford, IL
YOUR IMPACT The School-Age Group Leader is a dedicated and enthusiastic individual responsible for guiding and mentoring a group of children in before and after school programs, as well as summer camp activities. Reporting to the School-Age Area Coordinator and working closely with the Site Lead, the Group Leader plays a key role in implementing engaging, educational, and recreational activities that support the development of youth. This position requires a commitment to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment, fostering positive relationships with participants, parents, and school staff. Regardless of primary assignment, this position may be required to travel between program sites as needed. Expectations & Responsibilities
- Supports day-to-day operations of assigned before and/or after school sites during the school year.
- During no school days and summer camp programs, serve as a group leader as assigned by supervisor.
- Leads and mentors a group of children, fostering a positive and engaging environment.
- Facilitates and participates in group activities throughout the daily schedule, ensuring they are educational, recreational, and aligned with program goals.
- Ensures youth safety by actively participating in and supervising all swimming and water-based activities.
- Provides a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment for all participants.
- Builds caring, consistent, and positive relationships with program participants.
- Provides constant supervision during program to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants.
- Supports students in academic, recreational, and enrichment activities, using provided curriculum materials.
- Assists the Site Lead in handling discipline, complaints, and conflict resolution, employing positive youth discipline techniques, such as Core Values, Redirect, and Behavior Agreements.
- Models appropriate behaviors, including cleanliness, punctuality, sharing, healthy habits, sportsmanship, and table manners.
- Treats all students, parents, and fellow staff with respect and fosters a culture of respect within the program.
- Performs duties and tasks as assigned by the Site Lead, supporting the smooth operation of the site.
- Treats and cares for the site and equipment respectfully, ensuring the space is kept clean and well-maintained.
- Attends and actively participates in all team meetings and trainings.
- Communicates all concerns to leadership in a timely manner.
- Ensures a strong focus on character development and diversity, equity and inclusion throughout programming.
- Adheres to all state, local, and YMCA policies and procedures.
- Reports damaged equipment or safety hazards promptly.
- During no school days and summer camp programs, serve as a group leader as assigned by Area Coordinator.
- Performs any other functions necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the YMCA of Rock River Valley.
- Minimum age of 16
- Minimum High School Diploma or GED preferred
- 1-year related experience of leadership in a childcare setting preferred
- YMCA Leader certification preferred
- Training required upon hire: Gateways Child Development Health & Safety, IL DCFS Child Abuse and Neglect/Mandated Reporter. Any additional certifications that are required by the state of Illinois
- CACFP/SFSP Training required within 90 days
- CPR, AED and First Aid Certifications required within 90 days
- Current Praesidium Academy trainings
- Discounted Programs & Services, Including Child Care
- Pay Differential for Bilingual Employees
- Paid Time Off: Paid Leave for All Workers
- Employee Crisis Fund
- Employee Assistance Program
- Cell Phone Discounts with Participating Providers
- Tickets At Work Discount Program
- 401 (a) Retirement Plan: 8% YMCA Contributed Retirement
- 403 (b) Savings Plan: Tax-Deferred Account and Roth Account Options
- For retirement plan eligibility requirements, and additional information, visit
- Free Family Membership
- 3 Paid Floating Holidays
- 10.5 Paid Holidays
- Paid Vacation and Sick Time: Varies by Employment Type
- Short-Term Disability Program
- Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance: Partially Employer Paid. Employee Contribution Required
- Life and Long-Term Disability Insurance: YMCA Sponsored and Employee Contribution Programs Available
- Accident, Critical Illness & Hospital Insurance Plans: Employee Contribution Required
- Tuition Reimbursement: Must Meet Qualifications
- Free individual Membership
- Discounted Rate to Upgrade to Another Membership Category
- You'll support the commitment of the YMCA to child abuse prevention by:
- Report any items that may provide a health or safety hazard to staff, members or guests to your supervisor.
- Follow all policies and procedures related to keeping children safe in our facilities and programs, including those related to the monitoring and supervision of children.
- Report any suspicious behavior and violation of policy and procedures to your supervisor.
- Complete all child abuse prevention training as required.
Posted 2026-01-23
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