Dance Instructor

Job Description

Dance Instructor

Job Type: Temporary, Part-Time, Non-Exempt

Reports To: Director of Performing Arts

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 captivating live performances, thought-provoking exhibitions and installations, stimulating lectures, curated film screenings, and spirited community events. Our comprehensive array of classes in digital, visual, culinary, and performing arts offers abundant opportunities for personal growth, skill development, and the discovery of lifelong passions. Additionally, fellowship and training programs open doors to rewarding high-wage careers within the creative industries.

Designed as an inviting and accessible 25,000-square-foot space, EPACENTER is a welcoming gathering spot where people of all abilities explore their talents, engage with inspiring ideas, and flourish creatively.

Position Overview

Dance Instructors teach children and youth, ages 3-18, as well as adults ages 18 and over. 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 on Saturdays. 

Core Responsibilities

• Teaching group classes for elementary, middle or high school-aged students, and adults
• Provide written syllabi and lesson plans
• Follow health and safety, risk assessment, youth and community development goals,
• Build and maintain relationships of mutual trust and respect with team members
• Participating in instructor meetings
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

• Five to ten years of prior professional teaching experience in Dance: Ballet, Jazz, Modern, Lyrical, Afro-Latin Dance, Baile Folklorico, Acrobatic etc
• Experience in the planning and delivery of high-quality, discipline-specific instruction in community 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
• Cultural competency and experience working effectively in communities of color

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

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• 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.

Equal Opportunity Employer

• EPACENTER is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, or other protected categories covered by EPACENTER’s nondiscrimination policy.

Compensation & Benefits

EPACENTER offers competitive hourly compensation. Benefits eligibility is based on employment classification and hours worked and may include paid sick leave, holidays, and other benefits in accordance with organizational policy and applicable law.