Academic Program Assistant Jobs in Gaithersburg, MD

The United Planning Organization (UPO) is the designated Community Action Agency for Washington, District of Columbia, and has served the residents of the District since 1962. Our Vision for the future is “UPO’s Washington: A city of thriving communities and self-sufficient residents”; our Mission is “Uniting People with Opportunities.”

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply for this position or any other position currently advertised on our website. Please visit us at www.upo.org to view all of our vacancies and to learn more about our company and services.

POSITION: Program Assistant, C.R.E.A.T.E

DIVISION/OFFICE: Youth Services Division

BULLETIN No: 0252026

HOURLY RANGE: $20.00-$27.00(Commensurate with Experience)

OPENING DATE: May 20, 2026

CLOSING DATE: Open until filled

FIRST SOURCE: N/A

JOB SUMMARY:

The Program Assistant will manage one or more groups of youth who participate in UPO’s out-of-school time program for elementary school aged youth who attend DC Public or DC Public Charter Schools. The individual will work with youth who are in grades first through fifth; and, be responsible for facilitating the execution and achievement of program goals and objectives as outlined in the youth division strategic plan and approved grant applications.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION:

Lead or co-lead one or more groups of youth. Staff to participant ratio is 1:15. Coordinate and implement daily tutoring and homework activities to facilitate youth academic progress. Support the Program Coordinator with the planning and implementation of Literacy geared, physical movement and SEL workshops/activities that develop and enhance youth critical thinking and literacy skills. Assist in the development of lesson plans for enrichment sessions and workshops. Deliver engaging and age-appropriate activities aligned with program goals. Communicate with parents and families of program participants via ClassDojo, phone calls, & other approved communication tools. Provide updates on program activities, student progress, and any concerns as needed.

Coordinate and implement socio-emotional learning activities that help youth develop goal-oriented behaviors, establish a sense of personal responsibility, encourage optimistic thinking, and enhance self-management skills.

Demonstrate knowledge of principles related to youth development outcomes, while building positive relationships with both youth and families. Support the Program Coordinator with the planning and implementation of family engagement events that connect parents to activities and community resources as needed. Coordinate field trips and supervise youth during off-site excursions aligned with classroom instruction.

Assist with the administration of pre and post-tests and other evaluation tools to assess youth progress.

Implement behavioral strategies such as progressive discipline, conscious discipline, restorative justice, or other established program methods.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Associate degree in education, counseling, teaching, social work, behavioral science, or a related youth development field, and at least (3) years of experience working with elementary school aged youth in a classroom, after school or summer program setting, along with an established ability to implement a program curriculum. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing are required. Must possess a current D Class driver’s license and have a clean driving record with no more than two points. Must be able to work sensitively and effectively with individuals of diverse educational, socio-economic and cultural backgrounds. Ability to effectively use Microsoft Office programs, virtual learning tools.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor’s degree in education, counseling, teaching, social work, behavioral science, or a related youth development field, and at least (2) years of experience working with elementary school aged youth in a classroom or out-of-school time setting, along with an established ability to implement a program curriculum; strong leadership qualities; and a proven ability to work within a team structure. Experience using virtual distance learning platforms.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

In the event that an offer is extended, the candidate will be required to successfully complete a criminal background check and/or FBI fingerprinting, as well as pre-employment drug screening, as applicable for the position.

This position IS in the collective bargaining unit of the CWA Union.

POSITION ELIGIBLE

FOR TELEWORK: o YES n NO

EMPLOYMENT TYPE: Full Time/Regular (37.5 hours per week)

*Must be available to work M-F between the hours of 9:45 am and 6:00 pm.

Occasional weekend work may be required.

Competitive Benefits:

To be considered for this position:

Submit your cover letter, resume and driving record to the Career Center Online.

UPO is an Equal Opportunity Employer