Dance Instructors for Ballet, Hip Hop, Jazz Dance and Modern Dance. Part Time Contract Position

About DIW

The Dance Institute of Washington (DIW) is the leading minority-led, pre-professional dance equity organization in Washington, DC. Dance Institute of Washington increases the inclusive and diverse representation at every level of the professional ballet and dance industries in Washington, DC. Through that exemplary effort, DIW impacts racial and economic equity in dance nationally and globally.

At DIW, we are always on the lookout for talented individuals who share our passion for advancing equity in the dance world. As an organization committed to fostering an inclusive environment, we believe in the transformative power of diverse voices and perspectives. If you are driven, creative, and dedicated to making a positive impact in the arts, we welcome you to explore our employment opportunities. Join our dynamic team and be part of an organization that is making a difference in the lives of aspiring dancers and artists. Together, let’s pave the way for a more equitable and vibrant future in the world of dance.

DIW is seeking dynamic instructors to join our team and work closely with our partnership sites to instruct students, teaching them the fundamentals of Ballet, Hip Hop, Jazz Dance, and Modern Dance. DIW’s Partnership Program offers dance exposure, education, and quality training to students in DC area schools and youth-serving organizations. Through this program, we help eliminate barriers and provide access to artistic training by bringing our unique curriculum to students across DC, Maryland, and Virginia (DMV).

These are part-time positions with hours typically occurring during afterschool hours (3:00 PM - 6:00 PM). These positions require applicants to teach one uncompensated mock class as part of the interview process.

Start Date

The start date for these positions is flexible, with opportunities to begin in Fall 2024.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES include the following:

• Develop age- and level-appropriate curriculum, expectations, and program goals using the DIW Barnes Method as a guide; Plan and deliver engaging age and level-appropriate lessons in Ballet, Hip Hop, Jazz Dance or Modern Dance.
• Serve as the instructor for children and teens at our partnership sites; provide instruction in other dance styles, if applicable.
• Effectively monitor student progress, track program attendance, and adequately report any attendance issues to Program Coordinator.
• Ensure program is operating in alignment with program goals and delivering on DIW’s commitment to providing DC youth from diverse backgrounds a chance to experience the performing arts in a pre-professional setting.
• Create a safe, positive, inclusive, and encouraging learning environment where students can develop their movement skills and a love of dance.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships to ensure the success and satisfaction of program participants.
• Plan and organize showcases and in-class demonstrations for families at the end of each session.
• Attend required DIW faculty/staff meetings and trainings as designated by DIW’s School Director. 
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned by DIW’s School Director.

Education and Experience

• Candidate must have 3-4 years of dancing and teaching experience in Ballet, Hip Hop, Jazz Dance, or Modern Dance, primarily. Additional dance styles are welcome!
• High School Diploma or equivalent; Preference will be given to candidates with a bachelor’s degree in dance or working toward a degree in this area. 
• Prior experience teaching youth in a classroom, after school, or recreation environment preferred. 
• Prior experience in childcare, early childhood education, or teaching preferred. 
• Experience supervising and organizing activities for children and teens 
• Ability to expand and improve DIW’s Pre-Professional Program through recruitment and retention.
• Ability to work with youth and families of diverse backgrounds.

Additional Qualifications

• Commitment to DIW’s mission and strong social justice orientation.
• Effective and persuasive communicator, both oral and written, with exceptional emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills.
• Confidence and capability to adapt and lead in a fast-paced, changing environment while also navigating ambiguity and change inherent to an evolving organization.
• Possesses unquestionable personal and professional integrity, unwavering commitment to equity, and a growth mindset.
• Innovative, creative, and willing to think outside of the box to develop solutions that meet DIW unique needs and support our high-performing team.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Leadership and time management skills required.
• Must have a reliable means of transportation to and from the Program Site/School or location of instruction.
• Bilingual (Spanish preferred) is a plus, but not required.