Assistant Teaching Artist

Overview: 
African-American Shakespeare Company’s Education Department is designed to empower our BIPOC community, especially children and youth, with the means of exploring their creativity through theatre arts and building skill for the craft.  The programs are designed to be a pipeline for all stages and ages of talent from the beginners to professional career development programs.  Our core focus is building the craft and skills within the arts to enhance the passion and craft of the arts. When applicable, Teaching Artists will incorporate social emotional learning, social conflict, self-esteem, communication, and coping skills to enable participants to envision- through the performing arts- the world as they wish it to be. Our vision is to develop creativity through skill-development; while also being a source of compassion, and support for BIPOC communities and allies- to give them a voice that is heard, valued, and respected.  

Job Summary:  

As a part-time position, the Assistant Teaching Artist role is to support lead Teaching Artists in delivering AASC programs to schools and communities.  

 
Assistant Teaching Artists play a critical role in the success of the program and take on a variety of roles within the program including facilitator, actor, mentor, coach and teacher. We are seeking Assistant Teaching Artists who specialize in the following disciplines: theatre arts, playwriting, music, puppetry, dance, movement, or another specialized art form, and be passionate about teaching school-aged children, teens, adults, and seniors in public school, private workshops/coaching, and community centers.  
 
Our team of Teaching Artists are experienced in creating safe learning environments that foster pro-social development, model positive behavior, and support participant accomplishments, no matter how large or small. In schools, Teaching Artists interact with community partner staff, school administrators, and teachers and are responsible for all daily program goals. Candidates must be committed to ongoing professional development as an arts practitioner and educator and to be open to participate in community events. All Teaching Artists report to the AASC Director of Education & Engagement. 

Duties and Responsibilities:   

• Support implementation of AASC arts-integrated curriculum and/or assist in developing lessons that promote social and emotional development through theatre arts instruction 
• Demonstrate skill in one or all of the following theatre arts disciplines; acting, improvisation, playwriting, movement, vocal production or technical theatre  
• Assist in guiding students toward culminating presentations or performances 
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• Provide opportunities for students to “share out” their learning and reflect during each workshop 
• Help establish and maintain a safe and inclusive learning environment for all participants and artists 
• Participate in pre-planning and post-program meetings with co-teaching artists, AASC staff, and partners 
• Document workshop successes and challenges for each session and share with Director of Education 
• Report weekly with any workshop concerns including lessons, learning, attendance, and facility issues   
• Committed to on-going professional development as an arts practitioner and educator and to participate in AASC community events  
• Submit participant attendance and sign in sheets, and other documents in a timely manner in accordance with deadlines   
• Adhere to AASC guidelines & policies and to those of the facility, reporting any incidents or problems  
• Be a positive role model to students, school staff and fellow Teaching Artists  
• Perform other duties as assigned  
   

Desirable Skills & Qualifications 

• Must have or currently pursuing training or continued education (Conservatory, AA, BA, BS, etc.) in related field or comparable experience 
• At least 2 years of working experience in a similar role (educator, teaching artist, or administrator) working directly with children or youth in educational or community settings 
• Work well with people in various communities, institutional and governmental organizations   
• Cultural competency to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds   
• Work with diverse set of community-based organizations, residents and stakeholders   
• Foster open communication within and among diverse groups   
• Work in a team environment with minimal supervision   
• Some experience in community organizing is helpful, team building and group dynamics   
• Experience in meeting facilitation, and/or community relations  
• Ability to work independently, be flexible, and manage multiple priorities  
• Work well in a team-oriented environment and maintain harmonious relationships   
• Proficient computer skills, especially using Microsoft Outlook, Google docs  
• Detail-oriented with excellent communication, organizational, interpersonal and writing skills   
• Experience with public speaking and presentations   
• Fun :) 

 
Personal Qualifications:  

The candidate has a commitment to developing leaders and coalition building. Strong commitment to social change through community empowerment and the arts. Personal values align with the vision and values of AASC.  

Physical Requirements & Work Environment:  

• Must be able to lift 30 pounds  
• Must be flexible working in a fast-paced, non-profit environment.  
• Experience and interest in theatre and youth arts education is a must.  
• Must be willing to use personal equipment such as cell phone and laptop/tablet when working remotely.  
• Must be willing to undergo clearances/ background checks for school and community sites.  
   

Salary & Schedule: 

Salary commensurate with experience  
Non-exempt part-time position.   
Candidate must be open to work a flexible schedule, including some evenings and weekends.  
 
Send resume and cover letter with position title in subject line to  
employment@african-americanshakes.org