[Summer 2026] Elementary Chess Instructor

Job Description

Job Description

Originally founded in 1991 as Harlem RBI, DREAM has grown to annually serve more than 2,500 youth across East Harlem and the South Bronx through a network of seven PreK-12, extended-day, extended-year DREAM Charter Schools and community sports-based youth development programs. Through our commitment to rigorous academics, social-emotional learning, deep family and community engagement, and health and wellness, we create lifelong learners who are equipped to fulfill their vision of success in and out of the classroom. We dream big, as well, with an aggressive five-year plan to expand to serve 3,500 students across seven schools —growing our organization’s impact and leveling the playing field for all children. To learn more, visit wearedream.org .

Reporting to the Dean of Student Life, Middle School After School Chess Instructors facilitate engaging and developmentally appropriate chess instruction for students in REAL Kids and DreamBuilders—DREAM’s nationally recognized after school program. Using a provided curriculum, instructors teach foundational and advanced chess strategies while fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, focus, and sportsmanship. In addition to direct instruction and structured gameplay, instructors guide students in using a designated computer-based chess program each week to reinforce skills, practice tactics, and track progress.

Instructors lead 45-minute sessions for groups of 18–20 middle school students, supported by one Youth Worker.

Responsibilities

• Facilitate and deliver structured chess lessons for middle school students using a provided curriculum aligned to the DREAM program model;
• Lead engaging instruction that builds strategic thinking, problem-solving skills, focus, and sportsmanship, culminating in a final tournament, showcase, or skills-based competition;
• Guide students in using a designated computer-based chess program weekly to reinforce concepts, practice tactics, and monitor progress;
• Collaborate with Youth Workers, the Dean of Student Life, and the Associate Director of Extended Learning and Enrichment to provide a cohesive and engaging experience for students;
• Embed literacy and academic vocabulary throughout instruction (e.g., chess notation, strategic terminology, reflective discussions);
• Prepare all materials and technology prior to sessions and ensure thorough clean-up and proper storage afterward;
• Encourage positive participation, teamwork, and respectful competition among students;
• Serve as a positive role model while demonstrating professionalism and strong classroom management;
• Implement all health and safety protocols as required, including ensuring student safety and responding appropriately to any incidents.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age by the role’s start date;
• High school diploma required;
• Bachelor’s degree or certification in related field preferred;
• 2+ years experience working with groups of youth, or similar experience preferred;
• Ability to deliver a structured chess curriculum with confidence, adapting pacing and support to ensure student engagement and skill development;
• Clear passion for specialty area;
• Understanding of effective youth development strategies and conflict resolution;
• Exemplary social, organizational, and communication skills;
• Dedication to the program and ability to collaborate with colleagues to ensure a positive, productive youth experience;
• Ability to work in-person during all program hours required;
• A strong belief in the mission and values of DREAM, including the belief that all students can succeed, and a deep desire to make a difference in the lives of our students, families, and community.

Commitment

• Start date: June 22, 2026
• End date: July 31, 2026
• Days & hours: Monday-Thursday, 12:30 -5PM
• Dates and hours are subject to change.

Locations

• DREAM Charter School Highbridge Elementary - 1162 River Ave, Bronx, NY

Benefits

• DREAM offers the following benefits to our part-time employees:
• 403(b) retirement plan, with employer matching up to 4% after one year of employment (12-month continuous period) in which you work a minimum of 1,000 hours;
• Disability benefits;
• Referral bonuses;
• Access to our Employee Discount Program, offering savings on travel, entertainment, retail, and more;
• High-performing part-time staff have the opportunity to apply for the DREAM Teaching Fellowship, through which they can earn a Bachelors or Masters degree and become full-time teachers at DREAM.

Compensation

DREAM offers competitive compensation commensurate with relevant experience with the potential for a seasonal increase. The rate for this position for incoming staff is between $30 and $38 per hour. New hires receive an offer within the range based on relevant experience, internal equity, and the budgeted amount for the role. Enrichment Specialists are eligible for seasonal compensation increases based on tenure, in accordance with DREAM’s compensation practices. Compensation for Enrichment Specialists who continue their employment with DREAM may exceed the incoming range band above.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

At DREAM, diversity, equity, and inclusion are a matter of mission.

From our schools to our playing fields, DREAM is committed to building a team where each individual can bring their full identity and experience to work because representation matters—it enriches our team culture, enhances our ability to innovate, and strengthens our impact in and out of the classroom. DREAM engages staff that represent and appreciate the diversity of our majority Black and Hispanic student body, while working to ensure that our practices are equitable, welcoming, and productive. We are dedicated to creating a world where youth, especially youth of color, have permission to dream—along with the tools and opportunities to make their dreams reality.

Come dream with us .

DREAM Maxims

All Kids Can. This Kid Can.

DREAM is Family.

Fun is a Serious Value.

Teamwork Makes the DREAM Work.

Fail. Persist. Exceed.

DREAM Big.

Applying to DREAM

We know applying for a new job can be a daunting process. In addition, studies have shown that historically underrepresented individuals often only apply to roles if they meet 100% of the qualifications. We encourage all applications! You may be just the person we need. If you have any questions about your application or interview process, do not hesitate to ask your recruiter; we are here to help!

DREAM provides reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and applicable state and local laws. If accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, please contact your recruiter.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.