Job Title:                Elementary Performing Arts Studio Teacher

Wage/Hour Status: Exempt/Professional

Reports to:                Principal

Dept./School:          Assigned Campus

Approved by:           Superintendent

Summary

The Performing Arts Studio Teacher will guide students in developing creativity, intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration through the study and practice of theatre arts. This role emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to explore self-expression, human relationships, and society through drama. The teacher will introduce students to acting techniques, design, directing, and all aspects of theatrical production while connecting theatre to history, culture, and heritage. Above all, the teacher will cultivate a safe and inclusive learning environment where students can participate in, respond to, and evaluate performances in class and on stage.

Qualifications:

Education/Certification:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university.
• Valid Texas teaching certificate with endorsements in theatre arts or performing arts education.
• Current AED and CPR certification (preferred).

Special Knowledge/Skills:

• In-depth knowledge of theatre arts, including acting, storytelling, set design, and production.
• Familiarity with curriculum design and instructional best practices, including project-based and concept-based learning.
• Proficiency in delivering interactive and hands-on theatre instruction, incorporating innovative techniques and performance elements.
• Strong organizational skills to manage instructional materials, props, and production schedules effectively.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to foster relationships with students, parents, and colleagues.
• Expertise in evaluating student performances and providing constructive feedback to guide artistic growth.

Experience:

• Successful completion of student teaching, an approved internship, or relevant professional experience in education.
• Preferred: Experience teaching theatre arts and leading theatre productions, with a focus on hands-on, concept-based, or project-based learning.
• Additional consideration given for experience in informal theatre education settings, such as theatre programs and conservatories, community organizations, or other fine arts programs.

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

Instructional Strategies:

1. Develop and deliver engaging lesson plans aligned with district curriculum, incorporating acting, script analysis, and non-verbal communication techniques.
2. Introduce students to all aspects of theatrical production, including directing, stage design, lighting, and costume development.
3. Utilize diverse instructional strategies, including hands-on activities, performance-based learning, and multimedia integration.
4. Design and facilitate rehearsals and studio exercises that prepare students for performances and showcases.
5. Adapt instruction to meet diverse learning styles and the needs of individual students, including those with IEPs.
6. Provide individual and group instruction in acting, movement, and voice development, fostering confidence and stage presence.
7. Collaborate with music, art, and dance teachers to create interdisciplinary fine arts productions.
8. Foster student leadership by incorporating opportunities for students to take on directing, stage management, or production design roles.

Student Growth and Development:

1. Provide timely, constructive feedback to students to guide their artistic and personal development.
2. Conduct ongoing assessments of student performance using both formal and informal evaluation methods.
3. Plan and lead extracurricular theatre activities, such as after-school rehearsals, productions, and performance competitions.
4. Serve as a positive role model, promoting respect, inclusivity, and the values of the fine arts academy.
5. Encourage students to develop critical analysis skills by evaluating and critiquing performances.

Classroom and Studio Management:

1. Create a dynamic and supportive studio environment that encourages creative risk-taking and artistic exploration.
2. Establish and maintain studio safety procedures, ensuring appropriate use of props, costumes, and stage equipment.
3. Manage student behavior according to the Student Code of Conduct and promote a culture of professionalism and teamwork.
4. Maintain an organized inventory of studio materials, production supplies, and costumes.
5. Instruct students on the proper care and maintenance of theatre-related materials, including sets, scripts, and stage technology.

Communication:

1. Maintain open communication with parents, students, and colleagues to support student learning and program success.
2. Regularly update parents and stakeholders on student progress, class activities, and upcoming performances.
3. Build relationships with community theatre organizations and local performing arts groups to provide students with enrichment opportunities.
4. Promote theatre events through school and district communication channels, encouraging participation from the community.

Professional Growth and Development:

1. Participate in professional development opportunities to enhance theatre instruction, directing, and production management skills.
2. Stay informed about emerging trends in theatre education and incorporate best practices into instruction.
3. Attend and actively contribute to faculty meetings, professional learning communities, and district fine arts initiatives.

Performance and Event Planning:

1. Organize and direct student showcases, theatrical productions, and fine arts festivals.
2. Collaborate with faculty to coordinate interdisciplinary performances that integrate music, dance, and visual arts.
3. Lead fundraising or grant-writing efforts to support theatre productions, costumes, and equipment.

Other Responsibilities:

1. Follow all district safety protocols and emergency procedures to ensure student and staff safety.
2. Maintain confidentiality regarding student and staff information.
3. Perform additional duties as assigned by campus or district leadership.

Certificates Licenses, Registration

Valid Texas teaching certificate with required endorsement for subject and level assigned

Language Skills

Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodical, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations.  Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedural manuals.  Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from administrators, peers, students, parents and the general public.

Mathematical Skills:

Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry.  Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios and proportions to practical solutions.

Reasoning Ability:

Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.  Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram or schedule form.

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

Tools/Equipment Used: Personal computer, phone systems, instructional equipment, video technology, and related peripherals.  [P.E. /F.A. teachers: automated external defibrillator (AED)]

Posture: Requires prolonged standing; frequent sitting, kneeling, squatting, bending, stooping, pushing, pulling, and twisting. Student activities may occur outdoors in the schoolyard or garden, requiring flexible movement.

Motion: Includes frequent walking, moderate physical activity, and repetitive computer work involving hands and wrists. Outdoor field experiences may include light hiking and hands-on gardening activities.

Lifting: Regular light lifting and carrying (up to 15 pounds), including textbooks, classroom equipment, gardening tools, and materials for outdoor learning spaces and activities.

Environment: Work may occur indoors at the school or other locations, as well as outdoors in varying weather conditions, with regular exposure to sunlight and natural elements.

Mental Demands: Requires maintaining emotional control under stress, responding constructively to criticism, continuously generating innovative ideas for projects, and occasionally working prolonged or irregular hours to meet program goals and deadlines.

This document describes the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.  For a comprehensive overview of expectations specific to the theatre arts teacher role, please refer to the Performing Arts Studio (Theatre Arts) Teacher Expectation List linked below.

Performing Arts Studio Teacher Expectation List

Salary : $57,450 - $66,568