coach

tutor

school program staff

shift leader

sports coach

Assist Programs

I only worked here for a short time, but it was more than enough to see how this company truly operates, and how little it values its staff. They present themselves as caring and “educator-focused,” but in my experience, employees are treated as expendable.

During onboarding and orientation, much was promised, yet very little was delivered. I was told I’d be working at least five hours a day, but my actual schedule was closer to three. My site was also promised a consistent flow of curriculum each week so that we could focus on creating fun, engaging environments for the kids. That never happened. Most of the curriculum never arrived or was continuously reused, so we had to make our own activities from scratch. The few board games we had were missing pieces, and requests for replacements went unanswered for weeks. Supplies were so limited that at one point, we literally ran out of paper. When the kids asked why, I didn’t even know what to say.

Upper management also promised regular site visits and quality checks, but this promise, like many others, was not kept. Valuing staff feedback was another thing they spoke often about, but in practice, my site's concerns about supplies, understaffing, and behavioral incidents were repeatedly ignored. When feedback was shared, it was regularly brushed aside.

Even my first day revealed how disorganized things were. At orientation, I was told to check in at the office daily, but when I arrived, there were no signs, no instructions, and no one in the office knew what I was supposed to do. I wandered around the school until an assistant manager happened to spot me and point me in the right direction. That was my first clue that this company was not as organized as it presented itself to be.

The training process was another major issue, as it was severely lacking and inconsistent. Many important policies and expectations were never covered, so rules were not fully understood. Naturally, mistakes were made, but instead of using those as learning opportunities, upper management went straight to write-ups. On top of that, some of these write-ups were for minor or even absurd reasons: briefly taking off the uniform vest during an urgent student situation, not having wristbands in your vest pocket, forgetting to hand out wristbands on a daily basis, or taking home food that would otherwise be thrown away.

In my case, I was written up for violating a policy I was never trained on, and then given a final write-up immediately after for violating another policy I wasn’t trained on. There was no discussion, no warning, and no coaching—just straight to punishment.

This experience made it clear to me how little this company values those who go above and beyond. In my role, I consistently went beyond my stated job description—coming in early (with approval) to support my team, covering for absent coworkers, staying late to clean the classroom, and even training new hires when site coordinators weren’t available. Rather than recognizing or appreciating that effort, management responded with punishment. After my write-ups, I was no longer asked to come in early, and that responsibility was quietly reassigned to someone else. The message was clear: dedication and initiative aren’t rewarded here, but instead punished.

In addition, the work environment itself was chaotic and unprofessional. My site was severely understaffed yet overenrolled, to the point where we were constantly out of ratio with the kids and unable to effectively deal with the problems that came up. This affected breaks, making them nearly impossible to take, except at the very end of the day when there were no students left. However, this wasn't even possible sometimes if parents were late picking up students.

On top of that, student (as well as parent) behavior was another major issue at my site. Problematic students were rarely removed from the program, no matter how disruptive or unsafe they were, and the process for initiating removal was unnecessarily long and tedious. Combined with the lack of supplies and the constant threat of being written up for minor mistakes, working here each day was incredibly stressful to say the least.

Scheduling was another constant frustration. Schedules were sometimes changed the day of and expected to be adhered to immediately, with little to no notice at times. Getting moved to a new site unannounced was also not that uncommon, and sometimes, these adjustments were permanent.

Meanwhile, staff were held to far stricter standards. Callouts had to be made at least two hours before a shift (though management preferred 24–48 hours’ notice), and time-off requests had to be submitted two weeks in advance, even for those who were part-time and not given PTO. Requests weren’t always approved either. During my orientation, it was even bragged that a person’s request to attend a friend’s graduation was denied. Instances like this made it feel like upper management entirely lacked compassion and understanding.

Even the exit process was unnecessarily inconvenient. When exiting, staff are required to return their vest and badge to the company’s main office, which can be difficult for those who live far away. Luckily, I was offered the option to mail my vest back, but I don’t know if that courtesy was extended to everyone else.

What’s worse is that my experience doesn't seem to be unique. From my own conversations with coworkers and from reading the reviews, it seems that others have also faced challenges similar to mine, which shows a troubling pattern that shouldn’t be ignored.

Overall, this company makes big promises about being “an educator’s first best job,” but my experience was very different. I never felt supported, respected, or valued—only underappreciated and overlooked. The lack of training, unfair disciplinary system, chronic understaffing, and constant disorganization made this one of the most disappointing jobs I’ve ever had.

If you’re considering working here, I strongly recommend looking elsewhere. There are far better after-school companies out there.

To be honest, when I first started this job. I thought this job would be structured, organized, and exciting to start. Orientation gave off the impression of this place being greatly organized and fun to work at. They provided weekly if not daily curriculum for recess and afterschool yet none was ever really implemented or possible to implement. Trainings were provided but many and I found them not resourceful or helpful and found our own methods of teaching the students. I fairly enjoyed making my own indoor and outdoor enrichments but we were never given prep time to accommodate to our efforts. Staff were never seen in a positive view and only negatively. We were told to voice our needs and told we will be given appropriate materials. However, that was never true. The worst was our management and district leads, they have made this place a highly stressful place for me to work at. Everyday I go into work thinking of whether I would get the support I need or not. Thinking of whether I’ll get critique or evaluated for everything even the littlest thing that I could be doing. I’ve always enjoyed working with students and always dedicated my own time to get the students involved and engaged with new enrichments and ideas. However, there is practically no support or materials for this and no structured for this. When we get evaluated, I feel like we do not get seen in our best and only at our worst. District leaders (not all but) would come in and say they’ll support sites but do nothing and just go on about their days. My site coordinator has had it rough and many have quit and voice their frustration but only to be never heard of. I was told this job is a flexible job and hours are based on how we can work and there are many opportunities to rise. However, that was never the case. Many of my coworkers and I have been struggling to get our shifts and struggled to get consistent sites or work schedules. When ever we voiced this to higher up or scheduling, they just tell us we’re over staffed or too many people are available those days. However, sites was always understaff where I worked and we never have the same coaches being where I was at. I feel the hardship of trying to reconnect with students when I am never at the same site I worked as and get moved around every other week if not every week when schedule is published. When I first started, we were quite understaffed but as time went on. ASSIST hired too many employees and there are now too many abundance of us that they have to cut our hours and their budgets. Staff were getting sent home early whether we wanted to or not and we had no voice in our working environment. Every week I stress about whether I’ll get my hours or not and it has now became a reoccurring thing. Management would say you need two weeks noticed for taking a day off or change of schedule. However, never give us our two weeks noticed when changing our work sites and schedule. I had a family emergency to leave out of town once and instead of being accepting. I was given a write up or “warning strike” instead. Though they said there were no penalty yet towards that. I thought it was quite bizarre as it was an emergency. My worst case scenario working for this company was the “strike” system they had for students. There had been many situation where a student would lay hand or cause an incident where they should be expelled. However, because management didn’t want budget to be cut. They’ll keep the students in the program still and at most, if reoccurrence kept happening, suspend the student for a week or a couple of days only. Only for the student to repeat the cycle over again. There’s so much I could say about this place but one really has to be employed to know how the environment and management goes. The only reason I am still here is due to my coworkers and the love for working with the students I am working with. The children makes the place memorable and fun to be with but it cannot overshadow the management and higher up. I wish ASSIST would open their eyes that every site have different needs and some sites needs more assistance and materials provided as there are never enough papers, pencils, or markers for the students where I was at. Problem students are never resolve so 1 to a 27/30 ratio is quite ridiculous. Retraining new hires that come to our site only for them to be relocated was quite rough too as it became quite redundant and disappointing. I’ve worked for many school programs before and this has been one of the worst I’ve worked at. To be honest, some times I feel bad for certain higher up or management but they have done nothing to help make running a site or recess better. They’ll come and goes as they like, leave a comment, and that’s the most we will get. I hope the program improves as it has many potential but opportunities wised. Don’t bother thinking of getting a better position. Favoritism is really noticeable and there’s only so many higher up or district leaders who really cares for you as an individual. As amazing as many of the people I worked with were. Some were not professional enough in terms of their title or position. I really wish that management would get better and that the student would get the help they need. Many students from south sacramento area where I’ve been are quite below their grade standards and deserve better assistance. 

During my time at Assist, I had the privilege of working with some incredible children, whose curiosity and enthusiasm for learning were truly inspiring. Unfortunately, my overall experience with the organization has been overwhelmingly negative due to a combination of disorganization, lack of leadership, and ongoing systemic issues.The program was severely disorganized, and this directly impacted the safety and well-being of the children. This was compounded by the lack of a substitute system, which resulted in further gaps in staffing when staff called out. The result was a program that could not deliver the quality of enrichment it promised.
My direct supervisor, unfortunately, played a significant role in these issues. While they consistently acted as though they were a positive influence on the team, their actions proved otherwise. They lacked a clear understanding of the program’s needs, and their leadership did not translate into meaningful support for the staff or the children we served. Despite their positive attitude, they failed to make any lasting positive impact on the work environment or the community we were supposed to serve.
From the start, I raised several concerns about the organization’s management and the disorganization within the program. Unfortunately, these concerns were constantly dismissed and "swept under the rug." I even requested a team meeting to address the issues I had noticed, only to find that the meeting was scheduled on a day when I was not on the schedule. It felt as though my concerns were deliberately sidelined, preventing me from having a voice and allowing the company to avoid addressing the very real problems that were impacting both the staff and the children.
Additionally, there was a clear disconnect between the company’s mission, "An Educator’s Best First Job," and the actual execution of key educational programs like Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), as well as the lack of essential enrichment programs in S.T.E.A.M. and VAPA. This disparity left children without the well-rounded educational experience they deserved and further highlighted the misalignment between the company’s values and its practices.
The bureaucratic inefficiencies within the organization made it difficult to effect any real change, contributing to a toxic and unproductive work environment. I sincerely hope these issues are addressed so that future employees and the children we serve can have a better experience.
While I am grateful for the opportunity to work with such inspiring children, the constant disregard for staff concerns, lack of leadership, and disorganization led me to make the difficult decision to resign. I would not recommend this position to anyone seeking a well-managed, supportive, and effective work environment.



I started this job excited and hopeful—it seemed like the perfect first step for an aspiring educator. I’ve grown to absolutely love the kids in my TK/K class. I’ve built strong relationships, routines, and a classroom culture that I’m proud of. However, despite that, my time here has left me feeling burnt out, exhausted, and unsupported.

My co-lead and I go above and beyond every day. We create our own curriculum (since none is provided), plan engaging activities, and support our students emotionally and academically. We’ve spent our own money on classroom supplies due to long delays in the approval process and have frequently stayed after hours to clean up and organize materials that were left behind before we even started. We spend weekends planning and constantly thinking about how to improve our program. Unfortunately, none of this is acknowledged—yet we’re often criticized for the smallest oversights.

We face significant behavioral challenges, and even in extreme cases, there is little to no meaningful support from leadership. We’re often left to manage intense situations on our own, and despite asking for help, the response rarely goes beyond a conversation with a parent. This leaves us emotionally and physically drained by the end of the day.

Additionally, our senior site coordinator is frequently absent without notice. This has left me fielding calls and handling responsibilities outside my role while struggling to get support when it’s most needed. There’s minimal communication, little recognition, and a constant feeling of being overlooked until something goes wrong.

The frequent evaluations—sometimes monthly—add even more pressure. We’re held to high standards without proper training or compensation, and while the program emphasizes positive reinforcement for students, that same energy isn’t extended to the staff. The toll on my mental health has been severe. I’ve cried after work and had to take a break from college due to sheer exhaustion.

I genuinely love my class and my co-team leader. We’ve created something beautiful together for our students. But it’s incredibly disheartening to feel so unsupported in a role that demands so much. Based on what I’ve read from other reviews, my experience seems far from unique—and that’s perhaps the most troubling part of all.

Work is good depending on school site and team. The teams have cliques, which causes drama and personality differences. Some schools are more organized. Some have more freedom. Some site coordinators were unprofessional and would berate me or other coworkers on the walkie instead of talking to you personally aside from the group. 

There were always promotions for particular individuals that the company and site coordinators favors along with PCP (praise correct praise). I did not feel appreciated or valued at my site. We had a ton of enhancement coaches, and I was always stuck with doing most of the work yet I was talked to about how I needed to share the responsibilities with everyone. I love that idea too, but I was doing most if not all of the work. I didn't really feel like I had a voice since every time I would ask for advice or help on the walkie, the site coordinator would just tell me that I'm perfectly capable of doing it on my own. Some cases, I really needed support, and I didn't get it. The site coordinators would do this to everyone too. 

Summer programs were always fun. I liked going to other sites, because the site coordinators and teams are different. Fun to meet new people and new students. 

They like to over hire people and then cut our hours. They want a 2 week notice for everything, but sometimes emergencies come up. They made no exceptions. They also want a doctor's note if you are gone for 3 days or longer. 

HR is really quick to write you up over miscellaneous misunderstandings without even talking to you first or reading your email first. Always communicate through email. So, you can hold them accountable for their actions. 

They are always doing mandatory trainings instead of giving us benefits, hours, or incentives. They spent so much money on the prizes. It would be new employees that win those prizes too. 

The actual job itself is super fun and enjoyable. The kids are fun to talk to. They taught me a lot of new games and a lot of themselves. 

No pay raise, incentives, or benefits --> high turnover. I would recommend just for experience, but not as a career.

I started at Assist as a regular coach and advanced pretty quickly within the company based on my previous experiences in management, as well as my work ethic.  The pay is good and understandable for what the job entails, especially since other programs or childcare companies pay less to staff and managers. There will be times where it can be stressful but it is important before deciding to work with kids if you can work under pressure, multitask, and lead with confidence. Working with kids can be fun, but you have to acknowledge you are also dealing with students from all different backgrounds. I have gotten to know so many fun coaches, school staff, and students. It feels so rewarding to also promote coaches that work hard and have a passion. As long as you adhere to your usual work policies, show effort, and communicate, then management will definitely want you to grow! The only con of the job is that sometimes the paperwork, meetings, and delegating staff can be a lot. Time management and problem solving is definitely needed for higher advanced roles to keep things smooth if you have interest in a coordinator position. Superiors also help a ton and are usually very understandable if there are things you need support in. I have never had an issue with management working here and have always kept things professional. Overall, Assist is an open-door and I have definitely learned so much more here that I will carry on to my future career. 

I had worked with Assist for almost a year before deciding the stress was too much. There was no form of constructive feedback, it was always straight to a write up from HR. Speaking of, the woman in HR was very cold when it came to expressing how I felt as though my efforts were never noticed by higher ups. 
This job has a special way of making employees feel undervalued. Workers are not congratulated, just reprimanded for the smallest of mistakes. Hours are cut with no explanation, people are sent home an hour after clocking in. These sudden and jarring changes lead to financial insecurity and job insecurity. 
One of my biggest complaints was how it took months for my school site to receive pencils and paper from Assist but the company had no problem getting the MULTIPLE Apple Watches and Kings tickets to hand out at company “trainings” with a rented out venue and catering. 
Speaking of training, there are multiple trainings that are assigned monthly that have little to do with the job itself. They include TEDTalks that are quite honestly random and boring. Failure to complete one of these leads to immediate write ups so be prepared. 
Evaluations happen randomly and your bosses are told “not to give out 5/5’s unless they really deserve it or should advance” which is another example of how demeaning this job was. 
This job has slowly declined into a stressful and insecure workplace. I hope they can improve in the future for their employees sakes.

A typical day involves mentoring and guiding students, which is incredibly fulfilling. Every day presents unique challenges that keep me engaged and motivated to constantly improve my coaching skills.

Throughout my time with Assist, I've significantly enhanced my professionalism in interacting with school staff, parents, and children. My public speaking skills have also seen remarkable growth, boosting my confidence and allowing me to step outside my comfort zone.

Management is supportive and consistently strives to ensure I have the resources and guidance I need to succeed. They also provide excellent recognition for a job well done, which is highly motivating.

The workplace culture at Assist is fantastic. We all share a common goal of supporting our students and work collaboratively to achieve it. The company also organizes several team-building events throughout the year, providing opportunities to connect with other like-minded individuals.

The most challenging aspect of the role is maintaining a consistent schedule.

However, the most rewarding aspect is undoubtedly the strong relationships I've built with my coworkers and students. Every day is dynamic and engaging, making this job incredibly fulfilling and time flying by quickly

As a newer member of management I’ve had a great experience being welcomed to the team. My role oversees creative and I am provided will all the tools and training I need to do my job well. It has to be said the C-level actually listens to employees’ ideas and goes above and beyond to implement them. It’s incredible to be heard and make an immediate positive impact. When it comes to the daily work we are provided  autonomy to pursue innovative ideas, while staying connected to the team and collaborating on the best pathways forward. 

There is a lot to learn as ASSIST delivers educational programs to tens of thousands of students daily, so you must be open to receiving feedback, learning the rules and regulations, and committed to delivering the best possible outcome for the kids. It can be overwhelming at first if you don’t know the ins-and-outs of the industry, but the company provides thorough training and coaching to get up to speed.

From 30,000ft. view, you will be challenged to expect to deliver in your role, and be held accountable for quality work, and, you will be taken care of, listened to, and have the satisfaction of knowing your work makes students’ lives better.


Working with ASSIST Programs has been an incredibly positive experience. The company truly values its employees and fosters a supportive, collaborative environment where everyone feels like part of a team. The company culture is uplifting, inclusive, and mission-driven. You can really feel that everyone is working together to make a difference for the students and families we serve.

There are great benefits, plenty of opportunities for growth and advancement, and the leadership team genuinely cares about helping you reach your goals. Managers are appreciative, communicative, and encouraging, which makes coming to work each day both enjoyable and fulfilling. ASSIST also embraces a diverse work demographic, creating a welcoming community that reflects the students in the Elk Grove Unified School District. It’s rewarding to be part of an organization that not only invests in its staff but also strives to build stronger school communities through enrichment and connection.

Overall, ASSIST Programs is a place where your hard work is recognized, your voice matters, and your impact is felt every day. Highly recommend joining this amazing team!

Top Job Titles	Average Salary
Coach 19 salaries reported	$20.26 per hour
Tutor 2 salaries reported	$24.50 per hour
School program staff 3 salaries reported	$20.00 per hour
Shift leader 5 salaries reported	$20.00 per hour
Sports coach 1 salary reported	$23.00 per hour

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