Youth Academic Professional - (Paraprofessional)

Reports To: Club Manager

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt I Part-Time

Hours per Week: Part Time (Up to 27 hours)

Direct Reports: None

Work Location: School Based Site Location (See list below)

Effective Date: August 2026

Blue Door Academy Locations

•    Eisenhower Elementary School

•    Jefferson Elementary School

•    Lincoln Elementary School

•    Madison Elementary School

•    McKinley Elementary School

•    Roosevelt Elementary School

•    Washington Elementary School

•    Wilson Elementary School

•    Wauwatosa Montessori School

Position Summary

The Youth Academic Professional is a front-line program staff member at a Blue Door Academy school-based site. Working up to 27 hours per week for Part-Time positions, the Youth Academic Professional reviews, facilitates, and delivers structured afterschool enrichment programming for youth in grades 4K - 5th under the direct supervision of the Club Manager. This role is grounded in the principles of Positive Youth Development and requires a consistent, caring adult presence that creates safe, high-quality learning environments every day.

Blue Door Academy Youth Academic Professionals are expected to arrive prepared, execute programming with fidelity, and contribute to a site culture that young people and families trust.

This is a professional position with meaningful accountability for youth outcomes. What This Role Requires: The Blue Door Academy Staff Standard 

What This Role Requires: The Blue Door Academy Staff Standard

Every Youth Academic Professional is expected to hold three commitments in every shift:

Key Responsibilities

Program Planning & Delivery

• Plan and facilitate structured, engaging activities and enrichment sessions aligned to Blue Door Academy's program model and BGCA's core program areas.

• Deliver programming that incorporates BGCA's Five Key Elements of Positive Youth Development: safe environment, fun and belonging, supportive relationships, opportunities and expectations, and recognition.

• Follow the daily program schedule established by the Club Manager; arrive on time and prepared for each session.

• Use Club Programs, BGCA resources, and Blue Door Academy-approved curricula to plan and document sessions in advance.

• Adapt activities to meet the developmental needs and interests of youth in grades 4K- 5th. 

Youth Engagement & Relationship Building

• Build authentic, consistent relationships with youth grounded in trust, respect, and high expectations.

• Greet youth by name; maintain a warm, encouraging presence throughout each session.

• Recognize and respond to behavioral, emotional, and developmental needs; escalate concerns to the Club Manager as appropriate.

• Model positive behavior, conflict resolution, and inclusive communication in all interactions.

Site Operations & Safety

• Follows BGCGM's Member Care Manual policies and procedures

• Maintain supervision of youth at all times in accordance with required staff-to-member ratios.

• Implement all safety protocols, emergency procedures, and organizational policies, including the use of Safety Matters App.

• Keep program spaces clean, organized, and safe; report facility or supply issues promptly.

• Maintain accurate real-time child tracking of all members by using activity rosters, documenting all member time in/out, destinations, room locations, staff names, and ensuring parents sign children out at the front door.

Professional Standards & Continuous Learning

• Upon hire, complete a mandatory 15-hour Blue Door Academy onboarding training program prior to working directly with youth at any Academy site.

• Complete a minimum of 20 hours of continuous professional learning throughout the year, including BGCA Spillett Leadership University (SLU) coursework and site-level training.

• Attend all required staff meetings, trainings, and professional development sessions.

• Receive and apply feedback from the Club Manager; demonstrate consistent growth in program quality.

• Maintain professional conduct, confidentiality, and compliance with all organizational policies.

Qualifications

Education

• Required: High school diploma or equivalent.

Experience

• Minimum 1 year of experience working with youth in an educational, recreational, or community-based setting is preferred.

• Experience facilitating structured activities or group programming is preferred.

• Prior experience with Boys & Girls Clubs of America or a comparable youth-serving organization is preferred.

Required Certifications & Clearances

• Successful completion of all required background checks, fingerprinting, TB and physical tests, as well as any other regulatory clearances prior to being hired.

• CPR/First Aid certification (required within 90 days of hire).

• Complete Mandated Reporter training upon hire.

• Within 90 days, completion of required required Wisconsin Childcare Registry/Certification classes and clearances.

• Wisconsin Childcare Registry Level 7 or above preferred.

Skills & Abilities

• Demonstrated ability to build positive, professional relationships with youth, families, and colleagues.

• Strong communication skills; ability to engage youth of varying ages and developmental stages.

• Ability to follow structured program plans and adapt activities in real time.

• Reliable, punctual, and accountable; able to meet the demands of a professional schedule.

• Cultural competence and demonstrated commitment to equity, inclusion, and belonging.

Physical Requirements

This position requires the ability to stand, move throughout program spaces, and actively engage with youth for extended periods. Staff may be required to sit on the floor, lift up to 25 lbs., and work in both indoor and outdoor environments.

Available shifts range from Monday through Friday 6:15 AM to 8:00 AM, 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM, 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM, or from 2:30 PM to 6:00 PM.