Residential Assistant​/Chaperone; TWSB Summer Intensive

Department: The School

Position Title: Residential Assistant/Chaperone (TWSB Summer Intensive)

Reports to: Artistic Administrator

Classification: Full Time - Seasonal (must have availability between June 21 - August 2, 2026)

Stipend Amount (Weekly Range): $585-$600

Location: Washington, DC

The Residential Assistant (RA) is responsible for overseeing the well‑being, safety, and daily activities of The Washington School of Ballet (TWSB) students residing at the American University campus during the summer intensive programs. This role involves coordinating with the summer chaperone team, ensuring compliance with program and housing policies, and serving as a key point of contact for student supervision and support.

Reporting to the Head Chaperone, the RA works closely with the Artistic Administrator, faculty, staff, and fellow chaperones to foster a safe, structured, and positive residential experience for students.

• Arrive one day before students move into dorms for each summer program.
• Live in AU Dorms for the entirety of assigned weeks on duty.
• Report to the Head Chaperone.
• Review and ensure compliance with American University housing policies.
• Adhere to the RA schedule.
• Assist head chaperone in planning and executing activities for the dorm students.
• Assist with program check‑in and check‑out of students.
• Manage day‑to‑day student issues.

• Prior experience as a chaperone or in program leadership (preferred).
• Pre‑professional or collegiate‑level ballet/dance experience (required).
• Strong ability to remain calm under pressure and handle emergencies with sensitivity.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Detail‑oriented with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.
• Ability to foster positive relationships and maintain professionalism.

• Support and uphold the mission of The Washington Ballet.
• Communicate with kindness, professionalism, and discretion.
• Address conflicts, concerns, or urgent matters with appropriate leadership.
• Assist with summer intensive field trips as assigned.
• Be adaptable and willing to take on various duties as needed.
• Reside in AU dorms and remain available to students at all times.

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.

• Free housing at the AU Dorms
• Ability to take classes during the summer intensive when off duty
• Metro pass

Please submit your resume, cover letter, and three references. 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.

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.