Description

Contractual: Multiple Teachers/Instructors Needed for

4-Week Summer Academic Accelerator Program (Summer Learning)

Courses: Math, ELA, & Field Studies

At LINK Unlimited Scholars, our mission has always centered on advancing educational equity for students who have been historically underrepresented in higher education. By addressing systemic inequities through programming, we ensure our Scholars have the access and support they need to thrive to, through, and beyond college. Annually, we serve 300+ Scholars through our six-year fellowship, which spans middle through high school, focused on academic enrichment, scholarships, college access, leadership development, career exposure, and mentoring. This holistic approach not only prepares Scholars for college success but also nurtures their confidence, character, and commitment to community. The success of our Scholars is a powerful testament to what’s possible when we invest in education. Since 1966, we have served over 2,500 low- to moderate-income students. Our Scholars are outpacing their peers and graduating from college at rates higher than the national average (55% vs. 48%), nearly twice the national average for Black students (55% vs. 28%), and more than three times the average for Black students in Chicago (55% vs. 17%).

Teach. Inspire. Accelerate learning. Join LINK’s four-week Summer Learning program and help Scholars strengthen the skills that fuel college success.

Position Summary

As an integral part of the Summer Learning team, the Summer Learning Instructor (SLI) is responsible for delivering lessons/programming as a part of our academic accelerator and career exploration programming. Summer Learning Instructors (SLIs) deliver rigorous, engaging instruction and cultivate an inclusive classroom experience. They work closely with Scholars to ensure they are challenged academically and build community through collaboration and peer engagement. Summer Learning courses will focus on grade-level content designed to accelerate Scholars academically for their Math or ELA courses in the upcoming school year. 

Additionally, one day each week will focus on experiential learning and include job shadowing and/or field trips across the Chicagoland area. During such programming, SLIs will serve as chaperones and support Scholars in preparing for, engaging in and reflecting on those experiences. 

All curricula, instruction materials, and training will be provided. SLIs will collaborate with and report to the Director, Educational Programs. 

Summer Learning Courses

• 7th & 8th grade Math & ELA
• High school math: Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1, Algebra 2 and Geometry
• High school English: English I, English II, English II and Literature and Composition
• Field Studies: Career exploration is a key component of LINK programming. Scholars will complete several career-focused experiences through Summer Learning to gather real-world knowledge on a variety of roles. SLIs will support pre-experience instruction and day-of-event support. 

Responsibilities will include (but are not limited to):

Instruction/Grading

• Prepare and deliver instruction daily according to the LINK provided curricula and lesson plans .
• Support and build relationships with the assigned cohort of Scholars as they engage in programming.
• Assist with receiving Scholars and dismissing Scholars from programming daily.
• Maintain accurate records and report required data according to LINK timelines and due dates, including but not limited to attendance, grades, and related program metrics.
• Track Scholar assignment completion and participation.
• Grade/score assignments, pre-assessments and post-assessments.
• Ensure all Scholars in the assigned cohort complete all assessments.
• Perform chaperone duties during off-site during experiential Summer Learning Programming.

Planning/Preparation

• Attend one mandatory orientation meeting and regular office hour meetings to attain necessary clarity around lesson execution, programming participation, and any time sensitive program updates.
• Review provided academic materials to internalize the lesson plans and prepare as necessary to deliver instruction.
• Attend Daily Morning Huddles to check-in and gather needed materials.

Work Schedule/Commitments

• Contract Dates: June 8, 2026-August 5, 2026
• Summer Learning Start Date: July 6, 2026; Summer Learning End Date: July 30, 2026.
• Monday-Thursday, 8:30a-1:30pm (for 7th-10th grade Instructors)
• Monday-Thursday, 8:30am-2:30pm (for 11th grade Instructors)  
• Mandatory in-person Orientation in early June (date TBA)

Compensation

• 7th-10th grade Instructors:  will be compensated $2,500. This role is not eligible for health, dental, and vision insurance or any other benefits.
• 11th grade Instructors:  will be compensated $3,000. This role is not eligible for health, dental, and vision insurance or any other benefits.
• Mandatory Orientation, Training, & Curricula Office Hours: $50 per hour. For in-person orientation, LINK Unlimited Scholars will reimburse up to $15.00 for parking. Instructors will be responsible for their own parking during Summer Learning.

To Apply

Submit an application by Tuesday, March 31, 2026.

LINK Unlimited Scholars is an equal opportunity employer.

Requirements

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree REQUIRED.
  • Bachelor’s degree in education, social/human services, counseling, social work or related field preferred.
• Previous teaching/instructional experience REQUIRED, specifically in the content area of desired instruction (ex. in-school, after-school programs, summer programs). Evidence of teaching experience will be REQUIRED.
• Experience working with youth, specifically Black youth preferred.
• Availability on all instructional days (ex. M-Th 8:30am-2:30pm depending on assigned grade level).
• Ability to interact professionally and effectively with 7th-11th grade Scholars, Families, and volunteers.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Characteristics

• Exemplifies the LINK Unlimited Scholars’ mission, vision, and values and acts in accordance with all policies and procedures of the organization.
• Growth mindset and servant leader approach to education in Chicago.
• Cheerful and welcoming demeanor.
• Must have an outgoing and engaging personality.
• Strong work ethic.
• A self-starter, creative, and forward thinker.
• Must have the utmost integrity and an ability to process, protect and exercise discretion in handling confidential information and materials.
• Exercises good judgment with an ability to manage situations with tact and discretion.