Latin Language Specialist (Volunteer – MAP Roots)

Latin Language Specialist (Volunteer – MAP Roots)

Organization: Mentor A Promise (MAP)

Division: MAP Roots (In-Person Learning & Enrichment Program)

Location: New York City (In-Person)

Type: Volunteer (Unpaid)

About Mentor A Promise

Mentor A Promise (MAP) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting children and youth ages 5–18 experiencing housing instability in New York City. Through mentorship, academic enrichment, literacy development, social-emotional learning, cultural studies, and community-centered creativity, MAP creates safe, consistent, and empowering spaces where young people can thrive.

MAP Roots is our in-person learning and enrichment program, offering academic support, hands-on learning experiences, multicultural education, and small-group instruction that expands confidence and curiosity for students in shelters and temporary housing.

About the Role

We are seeking a Latin Language Specialist to introduce students to Latin language fundamentals, ancient cultures, and classical literacy in an engaging, interactive, and age-appropriate way. This role supports students in Grades 3–12, making Latin accessible and fun through vocabulary, storytelling, translation exercises, games, and cultural exploration.

This specialist will work closely with MAP Roots staff, enrichment instructors, and program leadership to design meaningful learning experiences that spark curiosity and strengthen language skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Teach introductory Latin lessons for students in small-group or one-on-one sessions.
• Create engaging, culturally responsive instructional activities that introduce Latin vocabulary, grammar, roots, and classical stories.
• Integrate ancient myths, historical context, and cultural themes to support student understanding.
• Build language confidence through speaking, reading, and introductory translation activities.
• Collaborate with MAP Roots staff to tailor lessons to student age, skill level, and learning needs.
• Provide enrichment aligned with MAP’s literacy and academic development goals.
• Track student progress and provide feedback to program leadership.
• Ensure the learning environment is supportive, encouraging, and inclusive.
• Check and respond to emails daily, with responses within 48 hours.
• Take responsibility for performance improvement by refining instructional approaches and incorporating feedback.

Qualifications

• Background in Latin, Classics, Ancient Languages, Linguistics, or related fields.
• Experience teaching or tutoring Latin to children or youth (preferred but not required).
• Strong understanding of introductory Latin grammar, vocabulary, and classical texts.
• Ability to make Latin approachable, playful, and culturally responsive.
• Strong communication, patience, and youth engagement skills.
• Commitment to MAP’s mission of supporting children experiencing housing instability.

Bonus Skills (not required)

• Experience in curriculum development or enrichment program design.
• Knowledge of classical mythology, Roman culture, or ancient history.
• Bilingual or multilingual abilities.

Commitment

• Volunteer role requiring 5–10 hours per week.
• In-person teaching at MAP Roots in New York City.
• Minimum 6-month commitment preferred.

What You’ll Gain

• Experience teaching Latin in a community-centered educational setting.
• Opportunities to design culturally rich lessons for youth with diverse backgrounds.
• Collaboration with MAP educators, enrichment specialists, and program leaders.
• Letters of recommendation and professional references.
• The fulfillment of helping students discover new worlds through language, history, and storytelling.

Application Process

Please send your resume, LinkedIn profile, and a brief statement of interest to hr@mentorapromise.org with the subject line: Latin Language Specialist – MAP Roots.

You may also apply directly here:

https://forms.gle/ptgy2zBZXJB1q7GV8

Teach with purpose — help students explore Latin, discover the roots of language, and expand their academic horizons through culture, curiosity, and classical learning.