2026-27 School Year - Kids' Zone Group Leader

Summary:

Under the guidance of the Recreation Supervisor, Site Coordinator, and Assistant Site Coordinator, the Group Leader will be responsible for the specific programming and management of a before/after school site.

Supervisor:

The Kids’ Zone Group Leader reports to the Kids’ Zone Site Coordinator, Assistant Site Coordinator, Recreation Supervisor, Assistant Superintendent of Recreation and Executive Director.

Essential Functions:
1. Create, organize, promote and conduct a variety of recreational activities such as: arts & crafts, sports, music, dance, games, nutrition, nature activities, special events, social activities, outdoor play and homework time.
2. Take direction from the Asst. and Site Coordinator and report any incidents immediately
3. Supervise and lead small and large group activities
4. Assists with planning age appropriate activities
5. Be able to discipline participants in a productive manner
6. Attends staff training and monthly meetings
7. Maintain good relationships and effective communication with:
• District 304 personnel
• Co-workers – You all need to work together and stay on the same page
• Supervisor – keep informed of all situations (accidents, confrontations) no matter how minor, concerning staff, district staff, participants or parents
8. Follow procedures to maintain safety at site – aware of any potential safety hazards
9. Arrives on time, as scheduled
10. Follows dress code and dress appropriately for days activities
11. Works Day Off trips, Winter and Spring camps and helps with other sites when needed
12. Other duties as assigned

Safety Program:
1. Understand the Park District’s safety procedures and requirements. This includes Completion and follow-through on all accident reports, emergency safety procedures, reporting of hazardous equipment, facilities or conditions and the conduct of any employee under his/her supervision. Reports all incidents and potential hazards to the Recreation Supervisor as soon as possible.
2. Attend safety certification classes as assigned.

Physical Requirements:
1. Handling Park District materials up to 50 pounds. Assistance will be provided when necessary.

Cognitive Considerations:
1. The Kids’ Zone Group Leader must exhibit good problem solving ability and good judgment in accordance with the mission of the Park District.
2. Demonstrate strong leadership skills when dealing with assistant site coordinator and group leaders and participants.

End Result
Successful performance in this position will develop a strong before/afterschool program, where participants are excited to return day after day. The ability to create a safe, fun and caring site where relationships can grow, is directly related to the performance in this position. The Group Leader will maintain a motivated and enthusiastic attitude during each day of the program.
• Staff will work as a team
• Participants will be excited about each day
• Parent and participants will feel safe
The success of the program directly relates to this position. Job duties and responsibilities may change as needed to create a quality program.