HISRA Gym Instructor

The Heart of Illinois Special Recreation Association (HISRA) is a cooperative effort of the Peoria, Morton, Chillicothe, and Washington Park Districts. Its mission is to provide quality recreation programs and services to individuals with disabilities and special needs. HISRA has several openings that center around hands-on experiences working with these individuals.

Duties: Under the supervision of the HISRA Program Coordinator, the HISRA Gym Instructor is responsible for:

• Plan and lead inclusive and engaging physical education activities tailored to the diverse abilities and interests of camp participants.
• Modify gym activities to accommodate various levels of physical and cognitive abilities, ensuring a positive and inclusive experience for all participants.
• Work closely with the Sports and Fitness Program Coordinator to plan, coordinate and integrate various outdoor and gym activities into the camp program.
• Develop and organize daily gym lessons, considering the unique needs and preferences of individual campers.
• Provide a safe and supportive atmosphere during gym sessions, ensuring the safety and well-being of participants while promoting a positive social environment.
• Keep records of participants' progress, goals, achievements, and any special considerations.
• Ensure proper care and maintenance of gym equipment, and keeping the loading dock area clean, well-maintained and unobstructed throughout the camp program.
• Follow all Peoria Park District and HISRA rules, policies, and procedures.
• Follow all safety procedures that pertain to the duties performed.  Support all aspects of the Peoria Park District and HISRA safety programs.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Essential Functions: The following work environment characteristics as described in this job description are representative of those of an indoor/ outdoor work environment the employee encounters while performing essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the functions of this role, the employee may be exposed to all types of lighting, weather and temperature conditions, such as sun, heat and humidity. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderately loud to very loud. This position also involves work in close quarters to buses during field trips with campers, and at various indoor locations.

Experience: Previous experience working with children and young adults with disabilities, demonstrating a genuine understanding and appreciation for their unique needs. Previous experience in gym/physical education instruction, with a focus on creating inclusive and accessible activities. Must be 21 years or older.

Knowledge and Ability:

• Proficiency in lesson planning, adapting activities, and creating inclusive learning environments.
• Strong customer service, communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage with participants and their families.
• Enthusiastic, patient, and flexible approach to working in a camp setting.
• Requires a valid Illinois State Driver’s License and willing to undergo a driving check and training.
• Ability to be professional, respectful, accountable, innovative, to follow safety procedures, and be equitable to both internal and external customers.

Perks:

• Part-time employees enjoy discounted recreation classes and free admission to select Park District facilities.

The Peoria Park District hires without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, citizenship status, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, pregnancy, military status or unfavorable discharge from military service, protected veteran status, or on the basis of any characteristic protected by law.

All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.