Program Sports 174021 - Program Instructor, Dance

At the Y, our mission is to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. Join our Greater Cleveland YMCA team in living our cause and helping to provide quality, safe and healthy programs and services in our community.

About the role

The Dance Instructor supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The instructor is responsible for planning and leading engaging, safe, and inclusive dance classes for youth and adults in a YMCA setting. They teach a variety of dance styles, including cheerleading, hip hop, and modern dance, while fostering creativity, confidence, teamwork, and physical fitness. The role involves creating age-appropriate lesson plans, encouraging skill development, and providing a positive learning environment that reflects the YMCA's core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility. The instructor builds positive relationships with participants and families, ensures participant safety, and adapts instruction to meet a wide range of abilities and experience levels.

Responsibilities

• Plan all activities in advance for each lesson/class; be prepared to be on time, with proper material, equipment, and in proper attire.
• Incorporate YMCA Character Development values into each lesson.
• Maintain class and participant attendance as well as student skill accomplishment records.
• Keep dance/tumbling areas clean, recognize potential hazards, communicate and eliminate hazards relative to program and program areas.
• Plan and implement program activities that are culturally relevant, developmentally appropriate and consistent with YMCA values.
• Adhere to program standards including safety and cleanliness standards.
• Attend staff meetings and trainings.
• Ensure all classes taught are in accordance with YMCA of Cleveland standards and guidelines.
• Follow YMCA policies and procedures, including those related to medical and disciplinary situations, child abuse prevention and emergencies.
• Maintain positive relations with patrons and other staff. Model relationship-building skills in all interactions.
• Act as a mandated reporter for any signs or suspicion of child abuse and neglect, following the child abuse and neglect reporting process.

Requirements

• Minimum of one year's experience in any style of dance or tumbling program (experience can come from being a previous participant, a coach, or a certified coach).
• CPR and First Aid certification and Safety training required within 30 days of hire.
• Adhere to Bloodborne Pathogen standards and attend annual training.
• Must be at least 16 years of age.
• Nationally recognized Dance or Tumbling coach certification preferred.
• Demonstrated strong customer service skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Self-motivated team player.
• Demonstrate commitment to the mission, cause of the YMCA, and uphold its values and ethics.
• Ability to work effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions.
• Willingness and ability to be a mandated reporter for any signs or suspicion of child abuse and neglect.

Physical Demands

• Display adequate knowledge of dance and tumbling while teaching and spotting athletes.
• Frequently required to sit and reach, and must be able to move around the work environment.
• Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 90-100 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust.

Work Environment

The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Benefits

• A free membership to your local YMCA and discount to YMCA programs including childcare (part-time positions do not receive discount on childcare).
• Additional employee discounts at many places in and around town.
• Eligible employees receive a comprehensive Benefits Plan including Health, Dental, Vision, and Employee Assistance Plan.
• Retirement plan with 9% contribution paid by the YMCA of Greater Cleveland.
• Paid vacation.