School Director

Department: School (TWSB)

Position Title: School Director

Reports to: Artistic Director and Executive Director

Classification: Full–Time, Exempt

Salary Range: $95,000 - $105,000

Location: 100% In Person, Washington, DC

Position Overview:

As an integral member of The Washington School of Ballet's (TWSB) senior leadership team, the School Director plays a pivotal role in shaping the school's curriculum, instructional methodologies, and overall brand identity. Collaborating closely with Managing Director of TWSB, the School Director is instrumental in achieving TWSB's artistic objectives and key performance indicators. Reporting directly to the Artistic Director on matters of artistic direction and to the Managing Director on strategic and administrative affairs, this role requires exemplary representation of TWSB at various venues, including studios, theaters, and special events, ensuring the organization's positive image and presence are maintained.

Responsibilities:

Overall Artistic Oversight

• Cultivate an environment of excellence in ballet instruction, fostering a culture where TWSB professionals can thrive.
• Define and oversee TWSB's curriculum, conducting faculty training sessions and ensuring its consistent implementation across all campuses.

Seasonal Programming

• Teach approximately 10-15 hours of TWSB classes weekly, providing rehearsal and coaching support to students pursuing professional goals.
• Develop and manage the school year and summer seasons in collaboration with Managing Director of TWSB, including scheduling programs and coordinating with TWSB staff and faculty.
• Conceptualize, choreograph, and artistically direct seasonal TWSB performances with support from Managing Director of TWSB and TWSB staff.
• Coordinate with Production and Artistic teams to align TWB/TWSB schedules, student involvement, and company auditions for TWB productions that use TWSB students.
• Plan and execute auditions for the Summer Intensive and School Year programs, overseeing level placements and scholarship awards.

Management

• Direct school programs and manage faculty oversight of programs.
• Conduct evaluations for Full-time and part-time faculty.
• Maintain effective communication channels with faculty.
• Hire and assign faculty to programs.
• Maintain effective communication channels with students and parents, overseeing the regular communication of updates on student progress.

TWB Artistic Collaboration

• Collaborate with the Community Engagement department for events that use TWSB students and advise on ballet curriculum for community education programs.
• Conduct company classes and provide rehearsal and coaching support to TWB's company and Studio Company members as assigned by the Artistic Director.
• Lead artistic endeavors such as photo shoots, ensuring alignment with TWSB's branding and marketing initiatives.
• Act as a liaison to the Ballet's Board of Directors' School Committee.
• Fulfill additional duties as directed by the Artistic Director and/or Executive Director.

Professional and Technical Competencies:

• Ballet Pedagogy & Training Excellence – Proven track record in training ballet dancers from a young age through professional placement; deep knowledge and commitment to classical ballet forms and techniques; strong national network of schools and companies; inspiring studio presence that motivates students to excellence.
• Leadership & Representation – Strong advocate for The Washington Ballet's philosophy and mission; positive representative in the community; fosters strong relationships with students, families, staff, and partners.
• Organizational & Administrative Skills – Exceptional project management and organizational abilities; detail-oriented; adept at balancing multiple priorities, assignments, and deadlines; resourceful and flexible in dynamic situations.
• Communication & Interpersonal Skills – Excellent verbal and written communication skills; strong interpersonal and collaborative abilities; maintains confidentiality and professional decorum.
• Operational & Financial Awareness – Basic financial acumen; capable of managing administrative responsibilities and contributing to program planning and evaluation.
• Teamwork & Initiative – Works effectively both independently and as part of a team; willing to assist with a wide range of duties as needed; approaches challenges with tenacity, sensitivity, and a solutions-oriented mindset.

Education and Other Requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree or equivalent
• Significant ballet training with professional experience at the soloist level or above with a national or regional company
• 10 + years' experience teaching ballet
• Experience managing a ballet school and/or supervising other instructors in a ballet program
• The work required often requires light to strenuous physical exertion for extended periods of time and includes but is not limited to standing, dancing, walking, moderate lifting, and sitting. The position requires the employee to effectively see, hear, and communicate with students and colleagues from both near and far.
• Proficiency with PC and software applications, including but not limited to Microsoft Office Suite, Dropbox, and Google Docs
• Operation of standard sound and music equipment
• Familiarity with Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or other virtual meeting platforms

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Washington Ballet is dedicated to fostering a welcoming environment in all aspects of its work, from artistic performances and ballet education to community engagement and workplace culture. We prioritize presenting artists and perspectives that reflect the dynamism of DC. Through our community partnerships and campus locations, we intentionally bring opportunities to communities throughout the DMV, ensuring fairness in hiring and employment practices.

Application Instructions

Please submit your resume, cover letter, and three references through the application portal at https://washingtonballet.isolvedhire.com/jobs/1565568 . We encourage all interested applicants to apply even if they do not feel they meet 100% of the qualifications. We are dedicated to considering a wide array of candidates including those with non-traditional background and experience in the performing arts. Please use your cover letter to elaborate on what you hope to bring to this role and how your prior experience has prepared you for this opportunity.

About The Washington Ballet

Celebrating its 80th year as an organization, The Washington Ballet grew out of the success of The Washington School of Ballet, founded and directed for years by legendary dance pioneer Mary Day. Today, The Washington Ballet's mission is threefold: To bring the joy and artistry of dance to the nation's capital and the world's stage through the professional presentation of the best in classic and contemporary ballet; to provide the highest caliber of dance training through a preeminent school of ballet; and to serve and involve the entire community through extensive dance education and community engagement programs.