Sankofa University Academic & Creative Arts Program InstructorWest End Community Empowerment Project of Lexington, Inc. (WECEP)
Educating. Mentoring. Empowering.
Employment Type: Part-Time
Location: Lexington, Kentucky
About Sankofa University
Sankofa University is the premier school-age programming division of the West End Community Empowerment Project of Lexington, Inc. (WECEP), providing high-quality out-of-school-time programming for students in grades K–8 through our Afterschool Program, No School Day Programming, School Break Programming, and Summer Programming.
At Sankofa University, we believe every child has unique gifts waiting to be discovered. Through innovative programming rooted in academic excellence, cultural enrichment, leadership, and the creative and performing arts, we help students develop the confidence, character, and skills needed to become successful learners and future leaders.
Unlike traditional afterschool programs, Sankofa University specializes in Academic Enrichment and Creative & Performing Arts. Our students experience a dynamic learning environment that combines education, creativity, mentorship, and hands-on learning.
Programming includes:
- Academic Enrichment
- Homework Assistance
- Small Group Tutoring
- STEM Activities
- African Drumming
- Dance
- Step
- Creative Writing/Poetry
- Visual Arts
- Performing Arts
- Mentoring Groups
- Leadership Development
- Social-Emotional Learning
- Health & Wellness
- Community Service
- College & Career Exploration
- Educational Field Trips
- Recreational Activities
Our Mission: "Reclaiming the Invisible to Achieve the Impossible"
Position Summary
Sankofa University is seeking passionate, energetic, dependable, and creative individuals who are committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of young people.
Our Program Instructors are far more than afterschool staff. They are educators, mentors, positive role models, coaches, leaders, and advocates who inspire students to believe in themselves, discover their talents, and strive for excellence.
Whether leading an African drumming class, tutoring a struggling reader, mentoring a middle school student, coaching a step routine, or encouraging a child to try something new, every instructor plays an essential role in helping students grow academically, socially, emotionally, and creatively.
If you believe every child deserves someone who believes in them, we’d love to have you join our team.
Required Availability
Applicants must be available to work all Sankofa University programming, including:
School Days (Afterschool)
Monday–Friday
1:30 PM – 8:00 PM
No School Days, School Breaks & Summer Programming
6:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Schedules may vary based on field trips, special events, performances, and program needs.
Essential Responsibilities
As a Sankofa University Academic & Creative Arts Program Instructor, you will:
- Create a safe, welcoming, and engaging learning environment.
- Supervise students in grades K–8 throughout all program activities.
- Serve as a positive role model, mentor, and leader.
- Build meaningful relationships with students and families.
- Facilitate academic enrichment, homework assistance, and tutoring.
- Lead engaging lessons and activities that promote learning, creativity, leadership, and personal growth.
- Facilitate activities such as:
- African Drumming
- Dance
- Step
- Creative Writing
- Poetry
- Visual Arts
- Performing Arts
- Mentoring Groups
- STEM Activities
- Leadership Development
- Recreation and Team Building
- Encourage positive behavior using constructive classroom management strategies.
- Promote teamwork, respect, responsibility, and leadership.
- Supervise students during meals, recreation, transportation transitions, and field trips.
- Assist with student performances, showcases, family engagement events, and community activities.
- Maintain attendance records, incident reports, and required documentation.
- Attend staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities.
- Follow all WECEP policies, Kentucky childcare licensing regulations, and safety procedures.
- Perform additional duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Required
- High School Diploma or GED.
- 18 years of age.
- Experience working with children or youth.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong organizational and classroom management abilities.
- Dependable, professional, and punctual.
- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
- Passion for working with youth.
Preferred
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Education, Child Development, Human Services, Recreation, Fine Arts, Social Work, or a related field.
- Previous experience in afterschool, summer camp, youth development, recreation, education, or childcare.
- Experience leading enrichment activities or teaching specialized skills.
- Experience leading and/or performing in the Arts (Choir,Dance,Drama,etc.)
Preferred Skills & Talents
We welcome applicants with experience or talents in:
- Teaching
- Reading or Math Intervention
- Tutoring
- Dance
- Step
- Theater
- Music
- Choir
- Creative Writing
- Poetry
- Visual Arts
- STEM
- Sports & Recreation
- Health & Fitness
- Mentoring
- Leadership Development
- Social-Emotional Learning
- Cultural Enrichment
- Lifeskills
Physical Requirements
Applicants must be able to:
- Stand, walk, bend, kneel, and actively engage with students throughout the program day.
- Lift up to 40 pounds.
- Participate in indoor and outdoor activities.
- Supervise students during field trips and recreational activities.
Employment Requirements
Employment is contingent upon:
- Successful criminal background check.
- Kentucky Child Abuse & Neglect Registry clearance.
- Compliance with all Kentucky childcare licensing requirements.
- Completion of required pre-service and annual trainings.
- CPR and First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain if required).
Why Join Sankofa University?
At Sankofa University, you won’t simply supervise students, you’ll help shape futures.
Every day is an opportunity to inspire confidence, cultivate creativity, strengthen academic success, and empower students to discover their unique gifts. Whether you’re leading a drum circle, tutoring a student, coaching a performance, or mentoring tomorrow’s leaders, your impact will extend far beyond the classroom.
If you’re looking for meaningful work where your passion, creativity, and commitment can transform lives, we invite you to join the Sankofa University team.
Pay: $14.00 - $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
Application Question(s):
- Do you have experience in the Creative and Performing Arts? If so, what experience?
- Are you avaliable to work Monday-Friday from 1:30-8:00PM during the school year and 6:30AM-6:00PM on out of school days and breaks?
- Are you able to perform the essential job duties?
Education:
- High school or equivalent (Preferred)
Experience:
- Childcare: 1 year (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
