Dance Teaching Artist

Poly Prep's mission is to prepare and inspire the next diverse generation of leaders and global citizens to act with intelligence, imagination, and––above all––character.

About the role

Poly Prep seeks an engaging and experienced dance educator to teach Grade 8 dance and inspire students through movement, creativity, and performance. This is a part-time guest artist position focused on teaching Grade 8 dance classes during the academic year (September 2026 – January 2027). Occasional participation in rehearsals or performances outside of regular class hours may be required.

We seek a visionary designer with a passion for engaging in professional settings that highlight students, strong communication and collaboration skills, and excellent organizational and time management skills. In view of our commitment to anti-racism, diversity, and inclusion, we seek an individual whose creative vision aligns with those values, who can serve as a role model for our students, and whose personal integrity and collegiality will enrich a high-achieving, collaborative department.

Responsibilities

• Teach dance classes for Grade 8 students, fostering technical development, creativity, and confidence.
• Develop and deliver engaging, age-appropriate lessons that encourage artistic expression and skill building.
• Choreograph student dance pieces and support performance opportunities as assigned.
• Collaborate with Arts Department faculty and administrators to support curricular and programmatic goals.
• Maintain a positive, inclusive, and supportive classroom environment.
• Communicate effectively with faculty and administrators regarding student progress and performance preparation.
• Maintain an accurate, up-to-date electronic gradebook.
• Effectively and supportively communicate with students and families.
• Provide written and oral feedback on student progress consistently throughout the school year and adhere to all narrative and grade reporting deadlines.
• Collaborate with the Chair and Middle School colleagues in developing unit plans, lesson plans, and assessments that reflect the goals and mission of the department and the School.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent professional training in Dance, Performing Arts, or a related field.
• Prior teaching, choreography, or professional dance experience, particularly with middle school-aged students, preferred.
• Strong dance instruction and choreography skills.
• Excellent communication, organization, and classroom management abilities.
• Demonstrated ability to engage and inspire adolescent learners.

Benefits

We offer a supportive environment with a full benefits package for eligible employees, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Generous match on our 403(b) retirement plan
• Long-term disability coverage
• Flexible spending account
• Pre-tax commute benefit
• Free lunch

Pay

$10,000

Schedule

Part-time (September 2026 – January 2027)