American Sign Language Instructor - Lutz Center
After School Matters·Chicago, Illinois
After School Matters·Chicago, Illinois
Instructors will teach American Sign Language to high school participants, focusing on vocabulary, grammar, and cultural aspects. They will also supervise students, plan lessons, and manage program activities.
After School Matters is seeking committed, part-time instructors to teach its American Sign Language program during the summer, fall, and spring for 15 high school participants between the ages of 14 to 20 at the Lutz Center.
American Sign Language is an advanced apprenticeship. Students learn the essential vocabulary, basic grammar, and facial expressions/body language used in ASL. Instructors will supervise and lead students in understanding and expose teens to the importance of Deaf Culture and ASL basics.
Summer: 6 to 7 weeks, daily Monday through Friday, four instructional hours per day. Additional hours are allotted for planning, recruitment, professional development and meetings. Exact program meeting days/times are flexible, with some restrictions, so long as instructional hours are met.
10 weeks, Monday through Friday (after school hours) and/or Saturday, 60-90 instructional hours (based upon the program model). Additional hours are allotted for planning, recruitment, professional development and meetings. Exact program meeting days/times are flexible, with some restrictions, so long as instructional hours are met.
10 weeks, Monday through Friday (after school hours) and/or Saturday, 60-90 instructional hours (based upon the program model). Additional hours are allotted for planning, recruitment, professional development and meetings. Exact program meeting days/times are flexible, with some restrictions, so long as instructional hours are met. Limited opportunities for Saturday only programs are available.
Expose a diverse group of teen participants to various facets of the education, linguistics, and communication industries while fostering a positive, safe, and collaborative atmosphere for all teen participants. Maintain knowledge of current education, linguistics, and communication, technology and concepts Prepare, organize, and supervise the weekly lessons on Deaf culture, ASL vocabulary/grammar, or ASL body language and facial expressions. Develop, plan, and implement high-quality related field trips, master classes, events, and guest visits to enhance instruction and training Provide supervision during program field trips and other youth engagement opportunities Report all problems or concerns and program updates to After School Matters Program Specialist to maintain consistent lines of communication throughout the program session Attend all planning and program dates, including: Instructor orientation, professional development workshops, meetings and other required sessions Participate in the recruitment, interview, and selection process of teen program participants Manage and track program activities such as attendance, interview outcomes, enrollment, evaluation surveys, and pertinent student records in an online data tracking system (CitySpan). Supervise teens at an average of 15:1, instructor: teen ratio
Proficiency in ASL: Must have a deep understanding and fluency in American Sign Language. This includes mastery of ASL grammar, vocabulary, syntax, and fingerspelling. Must be able to sign clearly and effectively communicate complex ideas in ASL. Knowledge of Deaf Culture: Knowledge of cultural norms, values, history, and traditions within the Deaf community. Cultural sensitivity and respect are essential. Teaching Skills: Possess effective teaching skills, including lesson planning, classroom management, and instructional design. Must be able to adapt teaching methods to meet the needs of diverse learners and create an inclusive learning environment. Communication Skills: Strong communication skills are essential to effectively convey information to teens. This includes both signing fluently to explain concepts, provide feedback, and facilitate discussions. Patience and Empathy: An ideal instructor is supportive, encouraging, able to provide constructive feedback, and is understanding that learning a new language requires patience and practice. Customer Service Skills: Able to effectively communicate with a variety of stakeholders (teen participants, parents, ASM programs staff, vendors, etc.)
Experience teaching, specifically teenagers, is highly preferred. Culturally competent in working with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Commitment to diversity and inclusion is required.
Compensation: $32 / hour
After School Matters is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status, military discharge status, age, marital status, parental status, or source of income.
Proficiency in American Sign Language and knowledge of Deaf culture are essential. Experience teaching teenagers and a commitment to diversity and inclusion are preferred.
Market context
In Illinois, campus-based education support roles like this often draw steady interest because schools and learning programs need candidates with strong math content knowledge and reliable local availability. Competition can be shaped by the bachelor’s degree requirement, preferred STEM or education background, and the need to commute to the Northbrook campus. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your commute and prepare examples showing your math strengths.
