HISRA Art 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 Art Instructor is responsible for:

• Develop and implement engaging and inclusive art lessons tailored to the diverse abilities and interests of camp participants.
• Modify art activities to accommodate various levels of physical and cognitive abilities, ensuring a positive, fun and inclusive experience for all participants.
• Foster an environment that encourages self-expression, creativity, and personal growth through artistic exploration.
• Plan and organize daily art lessons, considering the unique needs and preferences of individual campers.
• Provide a safe and supportive atmosphere during art sessions, ensuring the well-being of participants while promoting a positive social environment.
• Work closely with camp staff and fellow instructors to integrate art activities into the overall camp program, contributing to a cohesive and enriching experience.
• Keep records of participants' progress, artwork, and any special considerations, sharing insights with camp coordinators as needed.
• Maintain an inventory of art supplies for the duration of camp and order in any supplies or materials as needed. Keep the art supply closets tidy, organized, and well-labeled.
• 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 art teaching or instruction. Must be 21 years or older.

Knowledge and Ability:

• Proficiency in lesson planning, adapting activities, and creating inclusive learning environments.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to undergo a driving check and training.
• 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.
• 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.