Middle School Program Facilitator

Program Details:

• Program Dates: February 2nd, 2026 – May 15th, 2026
• Instructional Hours: 10 hours/week
• Schedule: Tuesdays & Wednesdays, 5:00–7:30 PM (on-site), 5 administration hours (hybird/remote) **Be advised, these hours may include in-person facilitation.**
• Locations: Police Athletic League Harlem (PAL) 441 Manhattan Ave. NY, NY 10026

Position Description

HEAF (Harlem Educational Activities Fund) is seeking a dedicated and creative instructor to lead our High School Transition (Rites of Passage) course for middle school students. This course is designed to help students across grades 6 to 8 develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to successfully transition to high school.

A central focus of the course will be supporting 8th graders with the high school admissions process in the Fall including research, application support, and decision-making, while also engaging younger students in readiness activities that prepare them for the journey ahead. The course will integrate creative arts, conversation, and healing-centered practices to help students reflect on their identity, strengthen resilience, and build community as part of their Rites of Passage.

The instructor will also support classroom management and student engagement during other enrichment classes, including Podcasting and Culinary Quest (led by other instructors), and may participate in special on-site events and occasional team meetings.

Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver engaging lessons that support middle school students’ academic, social, and emotional readiness for high school.
• Provide structured guidance to 8th graders navigating the high school admissions process.
• Incorporate creative arts, storytelling, and healing-centered practices into weekly sessions.
• Adapt and adjust lessons based on week-to-week needs of the group.
• Support classroom management and student participation in Podcasting and Culinary Quest classes led by other instructors.
• Foster a supportive, inclusive classroom environment that encourages student voice, collaboration, and growth.
• Communicate regularly with HEAF leadership about student progress and program needs.
• Participate in occasional team meetings and assist with special events.

Course Objectives

By the end of the course, students will:

• Build confidence and skills to transition successfully into high school. ● Gain familiarity with the NYC high school admissions process (8th graders specifically). ● Strengthen study habits, time management, and personal goal-setting strategies. ● Develop resilience and a stronger sense of identity through arts and healing-centered activities.
• Build community and practice collaboration with peers.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Counseling, Youth Development, or a related field. ● Experience teaching or mentoring middle school students.
• Familiarity with the NYC high school admissions process strongly preferred. ● Strong communication, facilitation, and classroom management skills. ● Ability to use creative and healing-centered practices in instruction.
• Commitment to culturally responsive teaching and youth empowerment.

Compensation

• $25/hour for 10 hours/week