Dance Instructor

Tap Dance Instructor

Job Location:

The Fine Arts Association – Willowby, OH 44094

Position Type:
Part Time

The Tap Dance Instructor is responsible for planning and delivering engaging, age‑appropriate tap dance instruction for students of varying ages and skill levels, including advanced tap students. The instructor will develop technical proficiency, musicality, rhythm, coordination, creativity, and confidence while fostering a positive, inclusive, and supportive learning environment aligned with the mission and values of the Fine Arts Association.

• Develop and implement structured, developmentally appropriate lesson plans for tap dance students at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels.
• Teach foundational and advanced tap techniques, including rhythm, timing, footwork, weight shifts, combinations, improvisation, and performance skills.
• Instruct an advanced tap class, providing challenging choreography and technical training designed to expand students’ proficiency and artistry.
• Adapt instruction and choreography to meet the developmental needs, interests, and abilities of individual students.
• Foster a supportive classroom environment that encourages discipline, creativity, teamwork, confidence, and self‑expression.
• Provide individualized instruction, guidance, and constructive feedback to help students achieve technical and artistic goals.
• Prepare lesson plans, music selections, and class materials while maintaining an organized and effective teaching environment.
• Supervise students during classes, rehearsals, performances, workshops, camps, and special events to ensure safety and appropriate behavior.
• Teach proper warm‑up, stretching, and injury‑prevention techniques consistent with safe dance practices.
• Assist with choreography and preparation for recitals, showcases, competitions, community performances, and other Fine Arts Association events as assigned.
• Maintain attendance records and other required documentation.
• Communicate effectively with students and families regarding progress, expectations, costumes, performances, and scheduling.
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities as requested.
• Support the mission, values, policies, and procedures of the Fine Arts Association.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree in Dance, Dance Education, Performing Arts, or a related field preferred.
• Demonstrated proficiency in tap dance performance and instruction, including advanced tap techniques.
• Previous experience teaching tap dance to children and adolescents preferred.
• Experience teaching or choreographing for advanced tap students strongly preferred.
• Strong understanding of tap terminology, musicality, rhythm, improvisation, and performance practices.
• Ability to differentiate instruction to accommodate varying ages, developmental stages, and skill levels.
• Strong classroom management, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to motivate students while maintaining a structured and positive learning environment.
• Commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive educational experience.
• Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues, students, and families.

• Ability to stand, walk, demonstrate movement, and actively participate in dance instruction for extended periods.
• Ability to demonstrate beginner through advanced tap dance techniques and choreography safely and effectively.
• Ability to bend, stretch, kneel, jump, balance, and perform movements consistent with tap dance instruction.
• Ability to lift, carry, and set up instructional materials and equipment weighing up to approximately 25 pounds.
• Visual and auditory acuity sufficient to observe student performance, assess rhythm and technique, and ensure student safety.
• Ability to engage in physical activity consistent with dance instruction, rehearsals, and performances.
• Work is performed in dance studios, performance venues, and community‑based settings.
• Exposure to moderate noise levels associated with music, dance instruction, and performances.

Part‑time position. Schedule will vary based on student enrollment, instructional demand, and program needs. This position may include daytime, evening, and weekend hours. Instructor is responsible for actively developing, maintaining, and managing their own student base, including the acquisition and retention of private clients, consistent with the independent studio model of the Fine Arts Association. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and verification of credentials.