Summary

The Dance Instructor is responsible for duties related to dance classes including communication with supervisor and Park District staff, instructing students, choreographing dance combinations, taking attendance, controlling the music source (CD player/IPOD/Bluetooth), demonstrating dance combinations, and possibly creating routines for performance at the recital for recital level classes. The Dance Instructor should be passionate about building relationships with students and will be responsible for teaching a dynamic group of students a range of diverse techniques.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Program instruction: Teach a variety of dance classes for various ages 18 months through adult.
• Observe students to determine physical and artistic qualifications and limitations and plans programs to meet students’ needs and aspirations.
• Explain and demonstrate techniques and methods of regulating movements of body to musical or rhythmic accompaniment.
• Motivate and inspire students to achieve their goals in their chosen area of dance.
• Evaluate student performance and make recommendations for improvement.
• Enforce a fun and creative environment.
• Keep up to date disciplinary actions and implement any changes to dance routines and curriculum as needed.
• Take accurate attendance for each class each session.
• Work with the Recreation Supervisor and Dance Coordinator to expand youth and adult dance program.
• Assist with the recruitment of professional dance instructors.
• Attend meetings with dance staff on a regular basis to coordinate class curriculum.
• Work with the Dance Coordinator to order costumes and supplies for classes and recital.
• Attend all rehearsals and performances as scheduled.
• Keep supplies and storage area neat and organized.
• Provide positive and professional communication with customers.
• Report any problems, unsafe conditions, behavior issues and accidents to the Recreation Supervisor.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This job has no supervisory responsibilities. Supervises students enrolled in assigned dance classes.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

 Education and/or Experience

BA/BFA in Dance and/or Musical Theatre is preferred, however not required; or associate’s degree (A.A.) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school; or minimum two years of related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Ability to teach a variety of dance styles and methodologies from beginner to advanced is strongly desired. Previous teaching experience is required. Energetic, driven, creative and dependable professional with demonstrated leadership skills is a plus.

The Park District of Highland Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer