What are the responsibilities and job description for the Educational Specialist position at FOREST HILLS COMMUNITY HOUSE?
Education Specialist (Part-Time)
Youth Development Center – After School Programs
About Queens Community House (QCH)
Queens Community House (QCH) is a multi-site nonprofit organization serving the diverse population of Queens through a broad network of programs for children and youth, adults and families, and older adults. Our mission is to provide individuals and families with the tools to enrich their lives and build healthy, inclusive communities. We are a modern interpretation of the traditional settlement house, guided by innovative leadership and a deep commitment to social and economic justice.
We welcome passionate, motivated individuals from diverse backgrounds who are inspired by our mission and dedicated to making a meaningful impact.
Position Overview
QCH is seeking a qualified Education Specialist with a strong commitment to youth development to support our Youth Development Center after-school programs. These programs provide comprehensive, year-round services—including afterschool, holiday, and summer programming—for elementary and middle school youth.
Our programs are designed to help participants:
Explore interests and passions
Build positive social connections
Contribute to their community
Become lifelong learners
Gain meaningful, enriching experiences
The Education Specialist is responsible for identifying and supporting age-appropriate curricula, guiding staff in developing developmentally appropriate lessons and activities (preferably project-based learning), and overseeing implementation of all educational programming. This role also plays a key part in coaching and developing staff to promote continuous quality improvement and fostering productive relationships with school partners.
Primary Responsibilities
Ensure youth experience project-based learning and creative youth development best practices across all activities
Ensure after-school clubs complement the school-day academic and enrichment programming
Ensure curriculum and instruction are aligned with NYS Common Core State Standards and meet Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) contractual benchmarks
Assist staff with planning and implementing engaging, standards-aligned units, lessons, and projects
Demonstrate and model positive youth development principles
Observe Activity Specialists and Group Leaders weekly and provide constructive feedback
Serve as an instructional coach and mentor; model lessons as needed
Maintain observation and feedback logs documenting support provided
Ensure lesson plans and projects are age-appropriate and include clear learning objectives
Document student engagement and project outcomes through multimedia
Coordinate the implementation of academic and/or SEL assessment systems
Submit end-of-cycle summary reports of student achievements to the Afterschool Program Director
Plan and facilitate staff development related to instructional strategies and classroom management, including at least six (6) hours of quarterly on-site professional development
Attend required meetings, trainings, workshops, and organization-wide events
Qualifications
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Education (teaching certification preferred)
Minimum of three (3) years of classroom teaching experience (elementary and/or middle school)
Strong knowledge of NYS Common Core Standards and curriculum development
Exceptional coaching, communication, and problem-solving skills
Must meet all regulatory employment clearance requirements, including:
NYS Department of Health Fingerprinting
New York State Clearance Review Background Check
Physical examination with updated TB test
Additional Details
Status: Part-Time, Non-Exempt
Compensation: $30–$40 per hour
Schedule: Monday–Friday; up to 10 hours per week
QCH values health, wellness, and professional growth. Staff may earn up to 40 hours of sick leave per year and have access to a wide range of professional development, training, and networking opportunities.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume with the subject line “Education Specialist.”
Queens Community House, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other legally protected status.
Drug-Free Workplace
Salary : $30 - $40