Job Description

Summary/Goal of Position:

The WERACE Childcare Student Intern provides supervised childcare support for children participating in WERACE Family Literacy programming at Ellsworth Avenue Elementary School or Morris Street Elementary School. This paid internship is designed for high school students who are interested in gaining practical experience working with children in an educational setting while supporting parents and caregivers attending evening adult education classes. Interns will work alongside WERACE childcare staff and site supervisors to help create a safe, welcoming, and engaging environment for participating children.

Essential Tasks of the Position (Illustrative, not inclusive)

• Assist childcare staff with supervising children during evening Family Literacy classes.
• Help prepare and lead age-appropriate activities, including games, reading, arts and crafts, and other
• structured activities.
• Assist with setting up and cleaning up childcare spaces and materials before and after programming.
• Welcome children and families and help support a positive transition into the childcare setting.
• Model appropriate, respectful, and responsible behavior when interacting with children, families, and staff.
• Follow all WERACE and Danbury Public Schools procedures related to student safety, confidentiality, and supervision.
• Communicate concerns or needs promptly to the childcare staff member or site supervisor.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of the Family Literacy childcare program.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Interest in working with children and gaining experience in education, childcare, or a related field.
• Dependability and ability to arrive on time and maintain a consistent Tuesday/Thursday schedule.
• Ability to follow directions, ask questions when needed, and work cooperatively with supervising staff.
• Positive and patient approach when interacting with children of varying ages and needs.
• Willingness to participate actively in games, activities, reading, and other childcare routines.
• Ability to maintain appropriate boundaries and confidentiality in a school setting.

Learning Objectives:

• Develop foundational skills in childcare, supervision, and age-appropriate engagement.
• Strengthen communication, teamwork, reliability, and professional workplace habits.
• Gain practical experience working in an elementary school and Family Literacy environment.
• Build confidence in supporting structured activities and responding appropriately to children's needs under staff supervision.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must be a current traditional high school or college student.
• Interest in working with children and supporting families in an educational setting.
• Ability to commit to the Tuesday/Thursday evening schedule when DPS is in session through approximately the end of April.
• Willingness to complete all required onboarding and training prior to or immediately following the start of the internship.
• Prior experience working with children is helpful but not required.

Work Locations:

• Ellsworth Avenue Elementary School
• Morris Street Elementary School

Interns will be assigned to one of the two elementary school locations based on program needs.

Work Schedule:

Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5:15 p.m.-8:45 p.m., beginning immediately and continuing through approximately the end of April. The anticipated schedule is 7 hours per week.

Reports to:

The Childcare Student Intern will work under the supervision of WERACE Family Literacy site supervisor, with program oversight provided by WERACE administration.

Hourly Rate of Pay:

$20.00/hour