Youth Enrichment Instructor

About RICM: The Rhode Island Computer Museum (RICM) is a 501(c)(3) non- profit organization that is committed to procuring and preserving items that relate to our rich computer history. Our extensive collection of vintage computers allows members of the public to connect with the past, appreciate the roots of the digital age, and recognize the profound impact that computers have had on society. Our commitment to education lies at the heart of our endeavors, as we strive to provide enriching experiences that foster a deeper understanding of science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM).

Beyond preservation, the Rhode Island Computer Museum (RICM) is dedicated to offering a diverse assortment of interactive programs that encourage creativity, problem-solving, and technological literacy. Our enrichment programs provide opportunities for students to tinker, build, explore, and have lots of fun. RICM has an extensive catalog of different classes, which address subjects such as 3D design, animation, coding, robotics, circuitry, arts and crafts, and much more.

The Rhode Island Computer Museum (RICM) offers in-person enrichment programming at recreation centers, schools, and libraries across Rhode Island and eastern Massachusetts. We provide after-school classes, school vacation camps, and workshops to students in grades 3-8. Our programming is delivered through virtual platforms as well, such as Zoom and Outschool.

Job Overview: Are you passionate about inspiring children and helping them succeed? Do you want to be a positive role model that encourages a love of learning? The Rhode Island Computer Museum (RICM) is looking for a freelance Youth Enrichment Instructor who will play a pivotal role in bringing an assortment of STEAM-oriented enrichment classes, camps, and workshops to communities in the greater Boston area.

The Youth Enrichment Instructor will teach groups of four to fifteen elementary or middle school-aged students with an existing established curriculum. We will also provide you with the necessary training and equipment so that you are adequately prepared to deliver an exciting and dynamic learning experience!

Time Commitments:

• Schoolyear after-school classes typically occur during standard after-school hours (2:00-6:00 PM), on weekday afternoons. They meet one day per week for 1 hour, and last a total of 6 or 8 weeks.
• Though less common, 6 to 8-week-long classes may at times be scheduled on weekend days. They run for 1 hour on Saturdays or Sundays, and generally occur any time within the window of 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
• School vacation camps are occasionally held during February and April vacations, but the bulk of them occur during summer vacation, from late June through late August. Camps convene for 1.5-3 hours per day, for a total of four or five days.
• Workshops last a singular day, for 1-1.5 hours, and occur year-round.
• We offer flexible teaching assignments, and you will have the agency to choose which classes you would like to lead.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Prepare and deliver high-quality instruction for all enrichment sessions utilizing RICM’s curricula of STEAM-oriented topics.
• Maintain a comfortable, supportive, inclusive learning environment, where students can excel.
• Diligently record student attendance as class progresses.
• Handle RICM's inventory of supplies that will foster student learning, which includes portable technologies such as projection systems, Chromebooks, laptops, charging cables, and mice, or crafting materials such as paper, scissors, clay, etc.
• Assist or substitute for other instructors as needed.

An ideal candidate will:

• Have a background preferably in the fields of science, math, art / design, video game development, animation, 3D modeling / 3D printing, technology, computer science, and / or education. College undergraduate or graduate students actively pursuing a degree in these fields are encouraged to apply. We happily welcome retired teachers who are searching for a flexible opportunity and wish to keep their teaching skills sharp!
• Have previous experience working with elementary and / or middle school-aged children as a teacher, instructional coach, seasonal counselor, tutor, or similar role involving direct child care.
• Have access to a vehicle, to transport yourself to enrichment programs held on-site at recreation centers, schools, or libraries that are located within a 30-minute drive of Boston.
• Have the ability to lift objects weighing approximately 20 to 30 pounds.
• The ability to work a flexible schedule that includes weekday afternoons, occasional, infrequent weekends, and school breaks.

Requirements:

• A computer with a reliable, high-speed Internet connection, webcam, and microphone for accessing teaching materials and leading classes that may be held virtually.
• A valid, non-expired driver’s license and a vehicle.
• Be able to successfully pass Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) and Sexual Offender Record Information (SORI) background checks.

Compensation: The pay for this position is $32 per hour as a lead instructor and $25 per hour as an assistant instructor. One assumes the designation of assistant instructor during the onboarding period / training, and in instances where a fellow RICM instructor requires additional support. At times, our programs may have extremely high enrollment numbers and require two RICM instructors to be present in order to fulfill an appropriate student-to-instructor ratio.

Job Types: Part-time, Freelance

Pay: $25.00 - $32.00 per hour

Application Question(s):

• Can you confirm that you are capable of teaching classes on weekday afternoons, within the approximate window of 2:00 PM-6:00 PM?
• Can you confirm whether you are capable of teaching occasional classes on weekend days, within the approximate window of 9:00 AM-2:00 PM?
• Do you have the ability to travel within a 30 minute drive of Boston utilizing your own form of transportation?

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

• Teaching: 1 year (Required)

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $25 - $32