Volunteer Opportunity: Inspire Young Artists Through Performing Arts

About Iron Village Preparatory Academy

Iron Village Preparatory Academy (IVP) is a small, student-centered K–8 microschool in Richmond, focused on academic growth, cultural joy, and creative expression. Our performing arts program introduces students to drama, vocal music, creative writing, and more, with an emphasis on cultural inclusion, creativity, and personal expression.

We are building a Juilliard-inspired microschool arts program for our 11 students (6 K–2, 5 grades 3–7). Though we’re small and scrappy, we’re creating something impactful—and you can help make it happen!

Volunteer Role: Performing Arts Mentor

We are seeking passionate, creative volunteers to lead weekly performing arts sessions for K–8 students. You can choose to work with:

• Innovators (K–2) – 30–45 minutes/week
• Trailblazers (Grades 3–7) – 45–60 minutes/week

We’re flexible on the performing arts specialty you bring—drama, vocal music, creative writing, or any other form of artistic expression that inspires kids.

What You’ll Do

• Lead one weekly performing arts session for your chosen age group
• Incorporate your own creativity and artistic voice into the session
• Collaborate with the Executive Director to co-create lesson plans and pacing guides
• Model the mindset and skills of a working artist
• Maintain a joyful, inclusive, and low-pressure learning environment

Schedule

• Flexible within a Monday–Thursday window (9:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.)
• Exact times coordinated with the Executive Director
• One weekly session per volunteer (approx. 30–60 minutes depending on group)
• Optional 15–20 minutes of on-site planning immediately after your session

Who We’re Looking For

• Current performing arts students, early-career artists, or anyone with equivalent experience
• Comfortable leading K–8 students in creative, age-appropriate activities
• Collaborative and flexible: willing to work with school staff to shape lessons
• Passionate about student expression, creativity, and arts education

Why Volunteer with IVP

• Help shape a performing arts program from the ground up
• Mentor students and spark their creativity and confidence
• Bring your own artistic voice into a small, supportive, and innovative school environment
• Flexible schedule and meaningful, hands-on engagement