Schomburg Junior Scholars Instructor (Part-time)

Application Deadline: 24 October 2025

Department: Schomburg Administration

Employment Type: Part Time

Location: Schomburg Center

Reporting To: Sira Lewis

Compensation: $35.00 / hour

Description

Overview
The Schomburg Education Department creates high-quality learning experiences centered around the Schomburg Center’s archival collections, building on the Black community’s rich tradition of education as a tool for liberation. Through dynamic programs and activities, learners of all ages gain new perspectives on Black history, culture, and politics, while developing critical skills in inquiry, creative expression, and social action. We collaborate with educators to share and refine best practices, providing an engaging and inclusive way for people of all identities to access the Schomburg Center’s resources.
The Schomburg Junior Scholars Program offers a unique opportunity for 100-150 young students to explore these themes through an interdisciplinary, creative lens. As an Instructor, you will guide students' intellectual and artistic development, using the Schomburg Center’s archives to inspire critical thinking and self-expression. You will mentor students in a culturally responsive environment, supporting their growth through projects that integrate music, visual art, movement, media, and spoken word. The ideal candidate is passionate about education and youth development, fostering inquiry, collaboration, and social action while working alongside other educators to ensure a transformative experience for all students.
Responsibilities
Reporting to the Associate Manager, the Schomburg Junior Scholars Program Instructor will:

• Supervise a cohort of Junior Scholars on-site, Saturdays from 9:30am to 3pm, from October to May, working alongside a team of talented instructors
• Collaborate on the co-writing of curriculum focused on diverse topics related to the African diaspora
• Participate in plenary presentations and discussions
• Facilitate small group cohort discussions as assigned
• Lead educational field trips to local NYC destinations
• Support scholars in developing their individual research projects
• Guide a multidisciplinary team (incorporating dance, art, media, and spoken word) through the creation, production, and presentation of a collaborative group project, emphasizing creative instruction across multiple disciplines
• Submit weekly workshop reports and timesheets
• Attend weekly staff meetings after program hours on Saturdays from 3:00 - 4:30 pm
• Perform additional administrative tasks as assigned by the Associate Manager and Lead Instructors

Required Education, Experience & Skills

Required Education & CertificationsBachelor’s degree required – preferably in education, history, liberal arts, or other related fieldRequired Experience

• 3+ years of experience in education and youth development programming
• Experience with positive and inclusive youth development
• Experience in curriculum development, teaching, and research

Required Skills

• Background in creative education and interdisciplinary instruction
• Empathetic leadership with demonstrated success in culturally responsive teaching and student support
• Goal-oriented with a proven track record of positively motivating students to overcome barriers and achieving ambitious goals
• Strong written and verbal communication skills

Managerial/Supervisory ResponsibilitiesSupervise a cohort of approximately 20-30 Junior Scholars on-site, Saturdays from 9:30am to 3pm, from October to May

More...

Core Values
All team members are expected and encouraged to embody the NYPL Core Values:

• Be Helpful to patrons and colleagues
• Be Resourceful in solving problems 
• Be Curious in all aspects of your work
• Be Welcoming and Inclusive

Work Environment

• Research Library Setting
• Public Library Setting
• Office Setting

Physical Duties

• Limited physical effort is required
• May require travel within NYC

Pre-Placement Physical Required?
No

Union/Non Union
Non-Union

FLSA Status
Non-Exempt

Schedule Saturdays on-site from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM, with additional remote hours throughout the week for prepa