Dance Uplifts Instructor

Position Summary:

The Wooden Floor's (TWF) Dance Uplifts Instructor is responsible for delivering high-quality after-school dance instruction that advances the organization's mission of inspiring and transforming the lives of young people through the power of dance and access to higher education. Serving elementary schools in communities surrounding Santa Ana, the Dance Uplifts (DU) program expands access to dance education while introducing students and families to TWF’s year-round programming. The Dance Uplifts Instructor (DUI) creates a safe, engaging, and inclusive learning environment that supports students' intellectual, social-emotional, and physical development. This position is responsible for accurately implementing and enthusiastically teaching lesson plans developed by TWF, which are specifically designed to enhance students’ confidence, collaboration, creativity, critical thinking, courage, character, and social-emotional wellbeing. Dance Uplifts is delivered in four six-week sessions each year, with instructors typically working 6–12 hours per week from October through May

Reports To: Artistic Director (AD) 

Classification: Non-Exempt 

Status: Part-time, Monday – Friday, 6 - 12 hours per week (afterschool hours)

Essential Job Functions:  

• Implement the 12-day somatic-based Modern Dance lesson plans at various school sites throughout Orange County (Garden Grove, Anaheim, Buena Park, and more).
• Use a variety of holistic teaching approaches, including visual aids (provided by TWF) and other teaching methodologies to ensure all learners are supported.
• Uphold dance etiquette policies to ensure a safe and respectful student experience.
• Pick up and return supplies (i.e. pre- and post- surveys, stereos, microphones, etc.) to TWF campus.
• Respond to emails and maintain communication with AD and DU Coordinator.
• Model the values of The Wooden Floor: Community, Respect, Excellence, and Stewardship.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Establish nurturing relationships with students and support as a role model.
• Incorporate classroom management that supports the whole child.
• Encourage student participation and attendance in dance classes.
• Be a good steward of TWF supplies (i.e. stereos, microphones, visual aids, etc.).
• Attend DU meetings as schedule allows.

Required Education, Skills, Licensures, Certifications, Other:

• AA, BA, or BFA in dance or related field preferred. Degrees in progress accepted
• Experience in Somatic-based practices or a willingness to learn.
• Minimum three years teaching experience with youth, preferably in the public-school setting.
• Strong classroom management skills.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.
• Adaptability and flexibility to gracefully navigate challenges inherently presented at school sites.
• Be a life-longer learner, open to feedback.

COMPUTER & EQUIPMENT SKILLS:

• Proficient in Outlook and email communication.

PHYSICAL JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Frequently bend, squat, push/pull, reach above shoulder, stand, walk, use fine finger movements, communicate orally, reason and analyze, and carry/lift up to 25 lbs.
• Occasionally crawl, climb, kneel, handle objects, sit, and carry/lift 25-50 lbs.

MENTAL & REASONING REQUIREMENTS:

• Demonstrate independent thought and discretion.
• Assess situations and their importance and impact on families, students, and programs.

OTHER JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to pass criminal background check.
• Must have access to reliable transportation. If utilizing a personal vehicle, proof of insurance is required.

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employee may perform other related duties as negotiated to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.