An after-school program is only as strong as the people running it. While curriculum, facilities, and supplies matter, your staff is the heartbeat of your operation. They’re the ones engaging students, building trust with families, and creating a positive, enriching environment each day. That’s why hiring and retaining great after-school staff is essential to your program’s success.
Start with the Right Qualities
When hiring for after-school roles, look beyond resumes. While experience in education, childcare, or youth development is valuable, focus on finding individuals who are genuinely passionate about working with kids. Look for candidates who are energetic, patient, dependable, and excellent communicators. After-school hours can be hectic, so your team should be flexible problem-solvers who can think on their feet.
For roles that involve direct supervision or curriculum delivery, consider staff with backgrounds in teaching, counseling, or child psychology. However, don’t overlook college students, retired educators, or community members with mentoring experience—they often bring unique value to your team.
Create a Structured Hiring Process
A strong team begins with a solid hiring process. Write clear job descriptions that outline expectations, qualifications, and hours. During interviews, ask scenario-based questions to evaluate how candidates handle behavior issues, group management, and conflict resolution.
Background checks and reference calls are non-negotiable when working with children. Make safety and transparency a top priority throughout your screening process.
Offer Thorough Onboarding and Training
Hiring is just the beginning. A comprehensive onboarding process helps new team members understand your program’s mission, policies, and expectations. Provide training on child safety, emergency procedures, communication with parents, and behavior management.
Regular professional development keeps staff engaged and improves the quality of your program. Workshops on social-emotional learning, STEM activities, or inclusive practices can enhance your team’s skill set and show that you value their growth.
Foster a Positive Work Culture
Staff morale directly impacts student experience. Create a supportive, respectful workplace where team members feel appreciated and empowered. Encourage open communication, recognize individual efforts, and build a sense of community among your staff.
Involve your team in decision-making when possible. Ask for feedback on schedules, program activities, and student challenges. When staff feel heard and included, they’re more likely to stay committed.
Provide Consistent Schedules and Competitive Pay
After-school roles often involve part-time hours, but stability still matters. Offer consistent schedules whenever possible, and make sure pay is competitive within your region. If budget is limited, consider offering perks like paid training, access to resources, or small performance bonuses.
Prioritize Retention from Day One
High turnover can disrupt the flow of your program and impact student relationships. Retain great staff by investing in them early. Show appreciation regularly, support their professional goals, and provide opportunities for advancement within your organization.
In the end, building a strong team isn’t just about finding people—it’s about nurturing a culture where talented, passionate individuals want to stay. When your staff thrives, your students do too.