HARRISONBURG CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

JOB DESCRIPTION

POSITION SUMMARY:

As a High School Performing Arts Teacher specializing in Dance and Drama, you will lead the development of creative expression, confidence, and cultural appreciation among high school students through both dance and theater. Your role encompasses implementing comprehensive curricula, directing productions, coaching students in acting and dance techniques, and organizing performances. By fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment, you will empower students to explore their talents, collaborate effectively, and develop a deep passion for the performing arts.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Bachelor’s degree in Performing Arts, Theater Education, Dance Education, or qualified performance/teaching experience
2. Teaching certification or licensure in both dance and drama education.
3. Demonstrated experience teaching dance and drama to high school students, with a strong understanding of curriculum development and instructional strategies.
4. Proficiency in choreography, directing theatrical productions, and coaching acting and dance techniques.
5. Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
6. Ability to inspire and motivate students, fostering their creative expression and artistic development.
7. Commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the performing arts classroom and productions.
8. Passion for the arts and a dedication to nurturing a lifelong appreciation for dance and theater in students.
9. Effectively demonstrates the ability to perform the essential functions.
10. Experience working directly with individuals and families from diverse racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
11. Familiarity with equity and inclusion frameworks. Models non-discriminatory practices in all activities. Respects the worth, dignity and individual differences of others.
12. Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to present to diverse audiences to foster professional relationships and express and/or exchange ideas.
13. Excellent interpersonal skills.
14. Proficiency in the use of a variety of office/instructional equipment and technology with experience using Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and email.
15. Demonstrated leadership qualities and personal characteristics necessary for working effectively with students, teachers, administrators, and the community.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Curriculum Development: Create and implement dynamic curricula in both dance and drama, covering various styles, techniques, and aspects of performance arts.
2. Instructional Delivery: Deliver engaging and interactive instruction in dance and drama, utilizing a variety of teaching methods to cater to diverse learning styles.
3. Choreography and Directing: Choreograph dance routines and direct theatrical productions, overseeing all aspects from casting and rehearsals to technical coordination and stage design.
4. Acting and Dance Coaching: Provide guidance and coaching to students in acting techniques, character development, dance movements, and stage presence.
5. Performance Preparation: Prepare students for performances, competitions, and showcases, offering feedback, rehearsal guidance, and support to enhance their skills and confidence.
6. Classroom Management: Establish a positive and inclusive classroom environment conducive to creative exploration, collaboration, and artistic growth.
7. Cultural Enrichment: Introduce students to a diverse range of cultural perspectives, theatrical styles, dance genres, and dramatic literature, promoting an understanding and appreciation for global performing arts.
8. Collaboration: Collaborate with colleagues, staff, and community partners to integrate performing arts into interdisciplinary projects, school events, and extracurricular activities.
9. Professional Development: Stay abreast of advancements in performing arts education, attending workshops, conferences, and training sessions to refine teaching skills, directing techniques, and artistic knowledge.
10. Community Engagement: Engage with the local community through organizing performances, hosting events, participating in festivals, and fostering partnerships with arts organizations to enrich students’ experiences in the performing arts.
11. Takes all industry standard precautions to protect students, staff, equipment, materials, and facilities.
12. Maintains appropriate state licensure; assumes responsibility for and participates in staff development (professional growth) and training to keep materials, supplies, and skills up-to-date.
13. Follows appropriate safety procedures and properly maintains equipment.
14. Actively participates in and attends all required meetings.
15. Maintains confidentiality when appropriate.
16. Complies with and supports school division policies, regulations, procedures, and the HCPS Strategic Plan.
17. Effectively performs other duties as assigned by the immediate supervisor.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS / WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Light work, lifting up to 25 pounds occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds frequently. Regular travel throughout the school and effectively interact with students, staff, and the school community. Regular contact with staff members is required. Not substantially exposed to adverse environmental conditions.

EVALUATION:

Performance will be evaluated in accordance with school board policy and administrative regulations on the evaluation of administrative or licensed personnel.

The above is intended to describe the essential functions of and requirements for the performance of this position. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of the duties, responsibilities and requirements of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions and meet the demands of this position.

Vocal communication is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word; hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken word levels; visual acuity is required for preparing and analyzing written or computer data, determining the accuracy and thoroughness of work, and observing general surroundings and activities; and subject to inside and outside environmental conditions