Counseling In Schools (CIS) is a dynamic community-based organization founded in 1986 with a mission to promote the emotional and social growth of children so that they can thrive in school and succeed in life. For nearly 40 years, Counseling In Schools has created and fostered relationships with local schools, homeless shelters, and communities to enable New York City’s children to thrive – academically, socially, and emotionally. Our expert team includes licensed mental health and youth development professionals who fully integrate into the community, providing programs that equip children, families, teachers, and administrators with the right tools for preventing and coping with the challenges they face. We envision and work toward a bright future, full of possibilities, where each child can flourish and reach their full potential.

Position Summary:

Counseling In Schools is seeking passionate and enthusiastic people to fill the full time  role of a Program Director. This role is critical to the successful operation of the Counseling In Schools school year programs. The Program Director serves as the onsite leader responsible for the overall management, supervision, and coordination of the COMPASS after-school program. This includes ensuring compliance with DYCD, DOH, and OCFS regulations; overseeing curriculum design and implementation; supervising staff; and fostering a safe, inclusive, and enriching environment that integrates social-emotional learning and service learning.

Reports to: Senior Program Director

Schedule: Monday – Friday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (onsite)

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Manage all aspects of daily operations, including supervision of staff, student safety, attendance tracking, and scheduling.
• Maintain communication and partnership with school administrators, DOE personnel, parents, and community stakeholders.
• Recruit, train, and evaluate staff in alignment with SACC and DYCD personnel standards.
• Oversee enrollment, data collection, and reporting in DYCD Connect and other systems.
• Ensure compliance with all safety and licensing requirements.
• Lead program design that incorporates SEL, service learning, culturally responsive pedagogy, and enrichment in literacy, STEM, and arts.
• Serve as liaison for Inclusion and Mental Health Supports, ensuring students with disabilities or special needs receive accommodations and resources.
  Support staff professional growth through reflective supervision, coaching, and PD planning.
• Ensure program activities align with COMPASS goals and quality standards.
• Managing, interviewing, training, and coaching of program staff and volunteers;
• Conduct classroom observations; report information back to the CIS Supervisor on a consistent basis and address concerns as they arise;
• Input accurate time and attendance records for all staff, help maintain current staff and student files, incident and accident reports, and other required documentation and student data;
• Collaborate with the instructors to develop and ensure strong curriculum, activities, and that program content supports initiative goals and outcomes;
• Create a strong sense of community which values respect, acceptance, and high expectations; and

Qualifications:

• Background in social work, education, or related fields, or 3+ years of work experience in youth development is preferred;
• Strong leadership, conflict-resolution, and diplomacy skills;
• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, ability to prioritize, meet deadlines and multitask in a fast-paced environment;
• Strong understanding of healing-centered engagement and restorative practices
• Capacity to work independently and collaboratively;
• Strong verbal and written communication skills;
• Computer proficiency, including Microsoft Word and Excel, email correspondence, and database management, is required;
• Familiarity with New York State standards;
• Must pass DOE and DOHMH fingerprinting and background clearance.
• Must be available to work onsite Monday through Friday, 10:00am-6:00pm.
• Must take part in 15 hours of professional development opportunities per year and be available for some organization events outside of regular business hours.

Benefits & Paid Time Off 

• Paid Time Off (PTO):
  30 plus days of PTO plus paid holidays which allows you to recharge and return to work refreshed and motivated.
• Health Care Coverage:
  We understand the importance of your health and well-being. As part of our commitment, we provide a fully company-sponsored plan as well as other options for comprehensive healthcare coverage that includes medical, dental, and vision benefits, ensuring that you and your family have access to quality healthcare when needed.
•  Transit Check Program:
  To make your daily commute more convenient and cost-effective, we provide a transit check program that allows you to cover transportation expenses using pre-tax dollars. This benefit contributes to a greener and more efficient commute.
• 401(k) Plan:
  Planning for your future is essential. Our 401(k) plan enables you to save for retirement while benefiting from company contributions, ensuring financial security in your later years.
•  Life Insurance:
  Your peace of mind is paramount. We offer life insurance coverage to provide financial support for your loved ones in the event of unforeseen circumstances, demonstrating our commitment to your family's well-being.
• Referral Bonuses: We all have friends in our field of work. Refer a friend or colleague to work at CIS and receive a bonus once they join our team!