Teaching Artist

Story Tapestries is looking for Teaching Artists (TA) that have demonstrated experience in theatre arts, spoken word, storytelling, dance, music, visual arts, video production, folk arts or devising disciplines. They need experience both teaching arts for art sake as well as arts integration. They may have experience teaching professional development workshops for teachers. This person must also be passionate about teaching children in a range of settings including early childhood centers, public schools, private schools, libraries, community centers, hospitals and after school spaces. Teaching Artists interact with administrators and teachers and represent Story Tapestries. TA plays a critical role in the success of programs and takes on a variety of roles including, facilitator, artist, mentor, coach and teacher. Candidates must be committed to on-going professional development, as well as willing as able to participate in ST community events.

Our ensemble of Teaching Artists are experienced in creating safe learning environments that foster social development by modeling positive behavior and supporting all participant accomplishments. All Teaching Artists report to the Operations Director.

Duties and Responsibilities:  

  • Expertly instruct and mentor students in one or more of the following arts disciplines: theatre arts, spoken word, storytelling, music, dance, visual arts, video production or devising discipline.
  • Implement ST arts integrated curriculum and or create lessons to support social and emotional development through arts instruction.
  • Guide students to full-scale culminating presentations.  
  • Plan and establish a safe learning environment for all participants and artists.
  • Allow students to “share out” what they have learned and reflect on their learning at each workshop. 
  • Participate in pre-plan and post-planning meetings with co-teaching artists, ST staff, school teachers, administration and/or program partners.
  • Provide pre/post-evaluations, blogs, and video/visual documentation of all programs as outlined in the program contract.
  • Document and report successes and challenges for each session and share with ST Administrative staff.
  • Report immediately to the Program Manager if any workshop concerns including lessons, learning, attendance, program partner staff, and facility issues arise.  
  • Submit participant attendance and sign in sheets, and other documents in a timely manner and in accordance with the Administrative deadlines.  
  • Adhere to ST guidelines & policies and to those of the facility, reporting any incidents or problems as outlined to ST leadership and school or camp management.
  • Be a positive role model to students, school staff and fellow Teaching Artists.  
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Desirable Skills & Qualifications:

  • Must have a Bachelor degree (BA, BS, etc) or equivalent training and experience.  
  • At least 5 years of working experience in a similar role. 
  • Highly skilled in one or more of the following arts disciplines; theatre arts, spoken word, storytelling, music, dance, visual arts, video production or devising discipline.
  • Work well with people in various communities, institutional, and governmental organizations.  
  • Cultural competency to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds.  
  • Foster open communication within and among diverse groups. 
  • Work in a team environment with minimal supervision.
  • Experience in community organizing, team building, meeting facilitating, and group dynamics.
  • 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 Office and Google Drive applications.
  • Proficiency or willingness to learn about online teaching through Zoom and any additional platforms that may be utilized.
  • Detail-oriented with excellent communication, organizational, interpersonal and writing skills  
  • Must have reliable transportation that allows for an on-time arrival for all sessions, meetings, and performances.
  • English/Spanish bilingual preferred.

Personal Qualifications: 

  • Strong commitment to racial equity/social change through community empowerment and the arts. 
  • Personal values align with the vision and values of the Story Tapestries organization. 
  • The candidate has a commitment to developing leaders and coalition building. 

Physical Requirements & Work Environment: 

  • Must have access to reliable transportation and be able to arrive on time.
  • Must be flexible working in a fast-paced, non-profit environment. 
  • This position works primarily at schools and program sites. 
  • 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 probation camp sites.

Pay is commensurate with experience. Non-exempt part-time position.  Position is expected to work on average 5-10 hours weekly. Candidates must be open to work a flexible schedule, including some evenings and weekends.

To apply:
Apply with cover letter indicating job title and attach your resume, a sample lesson plan and work sample video links to administrator@storytapestries.org.