EPACENTER

JOB DESCRIPTION

DANCE INSTRUCTOR

ORGANIZATIONAL OVERVIEW

EPACENTER is a vibrant hub for creativity and cultural engagement headquartered in East Palo Alto. We are dedicated to inspiring imagination and activating the creative potential of all who seek greater access to artistic opportunities in San Mateo County. EPACENTER unites individuals of every age through artistic expression, supports career pathways in creative fields, and celebrates the rich cultural heritage of our community.

EPACENTER presents a dynamic range of public programs, including live performances, exhibitions and installations, stimulating lectures, curated film screenings, and spirited community events. Our classes in digital, visual, culinary, and performing arts offer opportunities for personal growth and skill development for every age. The EPACENTER building is a welcoming 25,000‑square‑foot space where people of all abilities explore their talents and flourish creatively.

POSITION OVERVIEW: Dance Instructors teach modern and contemporary dance forms, including ballet, hip hop, jazz, and modern and cultural dance forms to beginner, mid-level and advanced students, ages 6-18. Dance Instructors create class syllabi, develop lesson plans, teach assigned classes, manage the classroom, track attendance, and oversee the administration of class evaluations. Instructors must be available to teach after-school on weekdays and all day on Saturdays.

MAIN DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Teaching group classes for elementary, middle, or high school-aged students, and adults
• Assisting the organization with preparation for exhibitions and showcases
• Organizing field trips
• Helping students prepare for and participate in various exhibitions and field trips
• Participating in instructor meetings
• Other duties as assigned

Syllabus Development & Instruction

• Provide written syllabi and lesson plans
• Follow health and safety, risk assessment, youth and community development goals,
• Build relationships of mutual trust and respect while working collaboratively with youth participants and families, and fellow artists

Class Administration

• Provide a list of class supplies and equipment

Class Tracking & Evaluation

• Participate in assessment of participant learning

SKILLS & EXPERIENCE:

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in dance or professional practice a dancer
• Five to ten years of prior professional teaching experience
• Experience in the planning and delivery of high-quality, discipline-specific instruction for youth in community arts programs
• Ability to collaborate and interact in a professional, diplomatic and clear manner with others, including young people, lead instructors, staff, and community partners
• Commitment to ongoing professional development both as an artist and as an arts educator
• Cultural competency and experience working effectively in communities of color
• Ability to balance strategic thinking with day-to-day implementation in a collaborative environment
• Knowledge of youth development best practices and theory
• Passion for the arts with an understanding of how the arts and creativity can transform lives and contribute to community building and placemaking
• Degree in a related field, and/or equivalent experience and education

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience with positive youth development strategies and trauma-transformed practices
• Bilingual in English and Spanish
• Teaching style that translates well in teaching elementary, middle and high school students and adults of all ages

Job Type:

· Contractual, Part-Time, Non-Exempt

Physical Demands:

• Stand and walk or sit alternatively depending on specific needs of day.
• Have occasional need to perform the following physical activities: bending/stooping/squatting, climbing stairs, pushing, pulling, twisting, lifting and reaching above shoulders.
• Have occasional need to perform standing and walking activities.
• Constant need to perform the following physical activities: writing/typing, grasping/turning, finger dexterity.
• Lifting/carrying up to 10 pounds frequently and 50 lbs occasionally.
• Vision requirements: constant need to complete forms, read reports, view computer screen. Frequent need to see small detail. Frequent need to see things clearly beyond arm's reach.
• Hearing requirements: constant need to communicate over telephone and in person.

EPACENTER is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, age, sex, gender (including gender identity and gender expression), national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, marital status, medical condition (including genetic characteristics), sexual orientation, pregnancy, citizenship status, military or veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local laws. EPACENTER also strives to reflect the diverse community it serves. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, EPACENTER will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

Job Types: Part-time, Contract

Pay: $35.00 - $65.00 per hour

Work Location: In person