Dance Teacher, Grades K-4

Duties And Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver engaging, New York State Learning Standards for the Arts Dance-aligned dance instruction for students in grades K-4.
• Design lessons that incorporate creative movement, dance concepts, choreography, and a variety of dance styles and cultural traditions.
• Foster a safe, inclusive, and respectful classroom environment that supports student expression and risk-taking.
• Differentiate instruction to meet the diverse learning needs of all students.
• Audit student learning using formative and summative methods and provide timely feedback to students and families.
• Collaborate with classroom teachers and arts staff to integrate dance into interdisciplinary learning experiences.
• Choreograph and prepare students for school performances, showcases, and community events.
• Establish and maintain clear classroom routines, expectations, and procedures.
• Maintain inventory and organization of dance materials, costumes, and equipment.
• Communicate effectively with families regarding student progress and classroom activities.
• Participate in professional development, team meetings, and school-wide initiatives.
• Uphold school policies, procedures, and expectations in alignment with the school's mission and values.

Knowledge Skills And Abilities

• Demonstrate knowledge of child development and developmentally appropriate dance instruction.
• Apply culturally responsive teaching practices within dance education.
• Build positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues.
• Manage a classroom effectively using proactive and restorative practices.
• Communicate clearly and professionally in both written and verbal formats.
• Collaborate effectively as part of a team in a dynamic school environment.
• Adapt instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners.
• Integrate social-emotional learning into daily instruction.
• Organize time, materials, and responsibilities efficiently.

Position Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Dance, Dance Education, or a related field required; Master's degree preferred.
• Possess New York State teaching certification in Dance or demonstrate willingness to obtain certification (preferred).
• Show passion for teaching dance and implementing best practices in dance education pedagogy.
• Show experience working with elementary-aged students, preferably in a school setting.
• Show experience in technique, choreography, and performance preparation for young learners (preferred).

Physical Requirements

• Perform physical demonstrations of dance movements and activities.
• Stand, walk, bend, and move for extended periods of time.
• Lift and carry materials or equipment up to 25 pounds.
• Work in a dance studio, gymnasium, classroom, or performance space environment.
• Maintain active engagement and supervision of students during movement-based activities.