Enrichment Specialist – Gardening  Sutro Elementary

Careers by Empowering Futures, Building Communities

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Our Organizational Culture

At the YMCA of Greater San Francisco, we are committed to demonstrating values that aim to building strong communities where you can Be, Belong and Become. With Truth & Courage, we strive to understand and act on individual and societal truths. We ensure a safe and inclusive environment with Authenticity & Accessibility, allowing everyone to participate according to their needs. Our approach is Dependable & Creative, as we respond to community needs through strong partnerships. Above all, we embody Dignity & Empathy, treating everyone with respect and compassion, and recognizing the inherent dignity in all individuals. 

Position Summary

The Enrichment Specialist – Gardening at Sutro Elementary supports learning throughout the school day and after-school program by leading garden-based enrichment activities. This role works closely with school staff and program leadership to align activities with academic goals and promote a positive, inclusive learning environment. The Garden Teacher leads garden classes during the school day, assists with the Before School Program, and facilitates enrichment activities for up to 20 students daily during the After School Program.

– School Site: Sutro Elementary

After School Program Dates:

• SFUSD sites: must be available to work August 11, 2025 – June 3, 2026 

Job Responsibilities

• Program Management and Operations  
  • Plan and lead garden-based enrichment activities aligned with school-day academic content.
  • Organize and facilitate structured games and recreational activities during lunch and recess.
  • Supervise and lead a group of approximately 20 students in After School Program activities.
  • Support students with homework and academic skill-building.
  • Create and follow lesson plans that align with school and after-school themes.
  • Complete weekly lesson plans and contribute to behavior support plans.
  • Track student participation and communicate regularly with families and caregivers.
  • Use restorative practices to support positive behavior and resolve conflicts.
  • Follow all schedules, procedures, and planning templates provided.
  • Submit attendance records and meet required deadlines.

Minimum Qualifications

• Minimum 21 years of age. 
• Must be at least 18 years old (21 for middle school roles).
• One of the following:
  • Completed 48 college units
  • Associate’s degree
  • Pass on the After School For All-Excel Qualification Exam
• Background in youth development or education
• Available Monday–Friday between 8:00 AM and 5:30 PM (shifts may vary).
• Able to lead physical activities with youth.
• TB Test clearance within last 2 years (required for programs on school district sites). 
• Experience working with elementary or middle school youth.
• Knowledge of gardening or outdoor education.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bilingual proficiency in Spanish, Cantonese or Mandarin. 

Work Environment and Physical Demands

• This position operates primarily outdoors in the school garden and other schoolyard areas.
• Requires standing, walking, bending, lifting (up to 30 pounds), and working in varying weather conditions.
• May include indoor work for lesson preparation, meetings, and student support.
• Noise level is moderate to high due to group activities and student engagement.
• Must be able to remain active and attentive for extended periods.

Disclaimers

• Must successfully complete a background screening, including criminal and employment verification. Some positions may also require a credit check. 
• All duties and responsibilities are essential job functions subject to reasonable accommodation. The YMCA of Greater San Francisco promotes an equal employment opportunity workplace, which includes reasonable accommodation for otherwise qualified disabled applicants and employees. Please contact your manager if you have any questions about this policy or these job duties. 
• This job description may not be all-inclusive, and employees are expected to perform other duties as assigned by management. Job descriptions and duties may be modified by management as needed. 
• Job offers are conditional and contingent upon background clearance. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance and CA Fair Chance Act, we will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records for employment. 

Salary Description

The hourly rate for this position is $25.00 – $32.00 per hour, based on experience, qualifications, and alignment with salary benchmarks for similar roles. Compensation is in accordance with grant funding approval and program budget requirements.