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Elementary Program Instructor (oakland east)
Oakland Leaf Foundation
compensation:
Starting at $20.75/hour, with potential to earn up to $25.00/hour based on experience and qualifications.
employment type:
part-time
experience level:
entry level
job title:
Elementary Program Instructor
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Employment Type: Part-Time, seasonal (August through May/June), non-exempt
Required Schedule: Monday through Friday, between 1:00 PM and 6:30 PM; aligned with after-school programming.
Reports to: Program Manager
About Oakland Leaf:
Oakland Leaf was founded in 2001 by a collective of East Oakland educators intent on empowering youth voice. For the past 20+ years, Oakland Leaf has evolved into a highly regarded leader in the fields of youth development and out-of-school time learning. Oakland Leaf facilitates culturally relevant out-of-school time programming for approximately 1,000 K-12 East Oakland students through seven after school programs at public elementary and middle schools across East Oakland, one paid internship programs for high school students, and two 5-week summer camps - one for elementary children and one for middle school youth. Our programming emphasizes social and emotional learning, creative expression, critical thinking, leadership development, social justice, college and career readiness, and includes a diverse range of enrichment opportunities including S.T.E.M. activities, sports, poetry, visual arts, dance, literacy, community impact projects, and more.
Summary of Position:
The Program Instructor supports the academic and social-emotional learning of students in Oakland Leaf’s programs by delivering both academic support and enrichment instruction. This role focuses on creating a nurturing, structured, and engaging environment. The Program Instructor is responsible for designing and leading daily lessons that reflect Oakland Leaf’s mission and instructional standards. This position reports to the site-specific Program Manager.
Specific Duties & Responsibilities:
Lead daily academic and enrichment sessions using engaging, age-appropriate, and project-based approaches
Create a structured, supportive learning environment that fosters creativity, curiosity, and social-emotional growth
Establish consistent routines and classroom culture aligned with Oakland Leaf’s instructional and behavioral standards
Integrate Social Emotional Learning (SEL) into instruction and student interactions
Use a warm-demander approach to guide behavior with empathy and accountability
Complete administrative tasks—attendance, reports, and surveys—accurately and on time
Participate in trainings, meetings, and professional development
Support site operations, events, and classroom coverage as needed
Perform other duties assigned by the Site Program Manager
Placement/Program Setting:
This position may be assigned to an elementary or middle school site, depending on program needs and the instructor’s experience. Instructors are expected to be flexible and prepared to work with students across K–8 grade levels. Moreover, instructors are expected to adjust content, classroom culture, behavior, and engagement strategies based on the age group being served.
Minimum Qualifications:
Demonstrated alignment with Oakland Leaf’s mission, core values, and youth-centered approach
Negative TB test
DOJ and FBI background check clearance
Strong classroom and behavior management using restorative practices
Skilled in professional communication , active listening, and relationship-building
Critical thinking and calm, solution-oriented problem-solving
Reliable, flexible, and collaborative in fast-paced environments
Comfort working with youth across diverse ages, backgrounds, and needs
Education & Experience:
Experience: Managing and engaging groups of up to 20 K–8 students with ability to plan and deliver interactive, age-appropriate lessons.
Education: 48 college semester units or a passing score on the Instructional Aide exam
Working conditions/physical demands
Normal school conditions
Offsite meetings
Required to work some nights for events
Must be able to lift up to 25lb
Compensation:
Starting at $21.00/hour, with potential to earn up to $27.00/hour based on experience and qualifications
Generous paid time off, including:
Two weeks of paid winter break
One week of paid spring break
Additional benefits include:
Paid onboarding, training, and professional development
Opportunities for career development and internal promotion
Employee Assistance Program
Access to CalSavers, California’s retirement savings program
Oakland Leaf is an equal opportunity employer and will not discriminate against any individual, employee, or application for employment on the basis of race, color, marital status, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, handicap, or any other legally protected status recognized by federal, state, or local law.
Oakland Leaf is currently hiring for a number of positions for the 2026-2027 school year. Check out our website to view all open positions: https://www.oaklandleaf.org/get-involved/
- Principals only. Recruiters, please don't contact this job poster.