Advanced Arts Instructor - Dance: Harris YMCA

Reports to: Program Director 

The Advanced Arts Instructor is responsible for designing and leading high-level arts, dance, and
theater programs for youth and adult participants, with a focus on skill mastery, artistic expression, and professional-level instruction. This role requires expertise in curriculum development, arts integration, and mentorship of both students and fellow instructors. The instructor will provide a structured yet creative environment where participants can refine their artistic skills, engage in performances or exhibitions, and experience an immersive arts education. The Advanced Arts Instructor will also support program growth through training initiatives, community engagement, and development of arts showcases that align with the YMCA’s mission of youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

Culture Statement: 

The culture of the Y is rooted in our Christian mission and core values. We strive every day to collectively embody our purpose of serving as a catalyst to transform lives and communities through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. We are respectful – we treat each other and those we serve as we hope to be treated ourselves. We are caring – we show a sincere concern for others and their well-being. We are honest – we are truthful in what we say and what we do, and we do not make promises we do not intend to keep. We are responsible – we are good stewards of our resources, strive for excellence and our actions are accountable to those we serve. We are innovative – we harness creativity, are solution minded and forward thinking. We lead with faith.

Essential Functions: 

• Develop and Implement Advanced Arts Curriculum – Design and execute high-level lesson plans
in visual arts, dance, and/or theater that foster artistic skill development, creativity, and self expression for youth and adult participants.

• Deliver High-Quality Instruction – Provide expert-level instruction tailored to various skill levels,
ensuring an engaging and structured learning experience that supports artistic growth and
technical mastery.

• Train and Mentor Other Instructors – Lead training sessions, provide guidance on arts-integrated
learning strategies, and support the professional development of new and existing instructors.

• Plan and Oversee Showcases & Exhibitions – Organize student performances, gallery
exhibitions, or theatrical productions to highlight participant achievements and promote arts
engagement within the community.

• Ensure Inclusive and Positive Classroom Management – Utilize positive reinforcement,
redirection techniques, and differentiated instruction to maintain a welcoming and productive
learning environment for all participants.

• Engage with Families and Community – Maintain open communication with parents, caregivers,
and participants; collaborate with local artists, schools, and organizations to expand arts
education outreach.

• Assess and Track Student Progress – Evaluate participants’ artistic development, provide
constructive feedback, and adjust instructional strategies to enhance individual and group
learning outcomes.

• Manage Program Materials and Resources – Oversee the selection, maintenance, and proper
use of art supplies, costumes, props, and performance-related materials.

• Align Programs with YMCA’s Strategic Goals – Ensure that curriculum, events, and instructional
methods align with the YMCA’s mission of youth development, healthy living, and social
responsibility.

• Pursue Continuous Professional Development – Stay current with best practices in arts education
through ongoing training, professional development, and participation in industry-related
workshops or conferences.

Performs other duties and tasks as assigned by leadership. 

Required Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree required in Fine Arts, Performing Arts, Art Education, or a related field.

• Minimum of 5 years of experience practicing a specialized art form (visual arts, dance, theater, or
interdisciplinary arts).

• At least 5 years of teaching experience, including instruction at an advanced or professional level.

• Extensive experience working with a variety of age groups in a structured arts program.

• Expertise in curriculum development and implementation of arts-integrated learning strategies.

• Experience training and mentoring other instructors in arts education and classroom
management.

• Proven ability to organize and lead performances, exhibitions, or showcases that highlight student
achievements.

• Strong classroom management skills using positive reinforcement and redirection.

• Ability to develop and align curriculum with the YMCA’s strategic program goals and community
initiatives.

• Commitment to ongoing professional development with at least 10 hours annually in arts-related
continuing education.

All YMCA team members are expected to maintain a current and active status for all safety, risk, and
programming certifications defined by the YMCA of Greater Charlotte. 

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Masters in Dance / arts related field preferred.

Working Conditions: 

• Indoor classroom, studio, or theater settings with frequent movement, including standing,
bending, and leading physical activities.

• Occasional lifting of arts supplies, props, or dance equipment.

• Flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends, based on program and performance needs.

• High-level engagement with students, parents, and the broader community, including public
presentations and event coordination.

• Expected to lead professional development workshops and collaborate with staff on arts program expansion.

Core Competencies:

1. DEVELOPING SELF & OTHERS: Develops self and supports others (e.g., staff, volunteers, members, program participants), both formally and informally, to achieve their highest potential

2. FUNCTIONAL EXPERTISE: Executes superior technical skills for the role

3. INCLUSION: Values all people for their unique talents, and takes an active role in promoting practices that support diversity, inclusion, and global work, as well as cultural competence

4. INNOVATION: Creates and implements new and relevant approaches and activities that improve and expand the Y’s work and impact in the community