FINAL FILING DATE: This recruitment will remain open until the needs of the Department are met and may close without prior notice. ABOUT THE POSITION: The ASPIRE program is seeking active, creative, organized and nurturing individuals to work in the after school program. The positions will be assigned to work at elementary and middle schools in Downey. The positions will be hired to work during the 2010 – 2011 school year. The positions are funded by a California Department of Education After-School Grant which has been approved through June 2011. WORKING HOURS: Monday through Friday - 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Attendance at monthly Saturday trainings is required. Part-time shifts may not exceed 999 hours on a fiscal year basis (July 1 through June 30). EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS The following examples are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by persons assigned to this classification. • Responsibilities include coordinating and leading engaging academic, enrichment and physical education activities that develop and strengthen academic, physical, and social skills for an assigned group of 20 students; • Assist students by providing proper examples, emotional support, a friendly attitude, and general guidance; • Communicate with school staff and parents in the areas of student progress, homework, and behavior; • Maintain daily records and develop reports concerning student’s progress, behavior, and achievements; and • Participate in meetings and training programs as assigned. QUALIFICATIONS A combination of education, training, and work experience to demonstrate possession of the knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform in the position is qualifying. A typical combination is as follows: Age: Must be 18 years of age or older. Education: High School graduate or equivalent. OR Completion of two (2) years of higher education study equaling 48 units* AND successful completion of the ability to assist in teaching as apart of the State Board of Education and the California Department of Education's No Child Left Behind Act.** OR Possession of an Associate's Degree or higher from an accredited college or university*** in Education or related field of study AND successful completion of the ability to assist in teaching as apart of the State Board of Education and the California Department of Education's No Child Left Behind Act.** * Applicants must provide copies of their transcripts, unofficial are acceptable, at the of application submission Applicants must provide the appropriate documentation prior to an interview. Copies of the required documents may be faxed to Human Resources at (562) 622-4648, submitted in person, or mailed to 11111 Brookshire Avenue, Downey, CA 90241. Please include “Instructional Aide/Activity Specialist - ASPIRE ” on the documentation. **Applicants must provide verification of successful completion of the assessment examination. Verification must be received by the closing date either by mailing the documentation to the Human Resources Office at 11111 Brookshire Avenue, Downey, CA 90241, via fax at (562) 622-4648, or email at humanresources@downeyca.org An employment application may be rejected from consideration if verification is not possible. ***Accredited institutions are those listed in publications of regional, national, or international accrediting agencies such as American Universities and Colleges and International Handbook of Universities. Experience: Two (2) years of experience working with children in an instructional, teaching, or closely related capacity, preferably in a recreation or educational setting. Unpaid and volunteer experience will be considered. Knowledge of: Basic subjects taught in the district schools; safe practices in classroom and playground activities; correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary; interpersonal skills using tact, patience, and courtesy Ability to: Communicate clearly and effectively, orally and in writing and maintain effective relationships with students, parents and staff; print and write legibly; understand and follow oral and written directions; and work cooperatively with others; monitor, observe, and report student behavior. License/Certification: Attainment of CPR (Infant, Child & Adult) and First Aide Certification within 30 days of employment is required and must be maintained throughout employment. Due to the performance of field duties, which may require operation of a motor vehicle, a valid California Class C Driver’s License or the ability to utilize an alternative method of transportation when needed to carry out job-related essential functions may be required. Bilingual skills are desirable. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Physical Tasks and Abilities Environmental Conditions: Safely lift and carry 10 to 25 pounds in weight frequently and up to 50 pounds on occasion; bend at the waist; kneel; sit, stand and walk for extended periods of time. The work is performed indoors/outdoors and with exposure to cold and hot weather as a result of outdoor play and excursions.