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About St. John’s University & the Upward Bound Program
Founded in 1870, St. John’s University has grown from a modest Catholic college into a globally‑connected institution with three vibrant New York City campuses, international sites in Rome, Limerick and Paris, and a constellation of study‑abroad opportunities around the world. Recognized by the Princeton Review and other leading ranking agencies, St. John’s is celebrated for its rigorous academics, diverse student body, strong emphasis on experiential learning, and a steadfast commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. As a Vincentian university, we view education as a means to nurture leaders who serve their communities with compassion, integrity, and a pursuit of social justice.
The St. John’s University Upward Bound Program is a flagship initiative that partners directly with high schools to empower students from low‑income families and those whose parents do not hold a bachelor’s degree. Through targeted academic support, mentorship, and enrichment activities, Upward Bound raises college‑going rates and ensures that participants graduate not only from high school but also from post‑secondary institutions.
For the 2023‑2024 academic year, Upward Bound is expanding its creative‑arts component at Long Island City High School in Queens, NY. We are seeking a passionate, skilled, and adaptable dance educator to lead a dynamic after‑school dance program that nurtures artistic expression, builds confidence, and supports the holistic development of our youth.
Position Summary – Activity Specialist (Dance Teacher)
As an Activity Specialist – Dance Teacher, you will be the heart of the Upward Bound after‑school program, designing and delivering high‑quality dance instruction that resonates with a diverse group of adolescents. You will be responsible for choreographing performances, managing logistics, fostering a safe and inclusive environment, and collaborating with faculty, parents, and community partners to ensure a transformative experience for each student.
Key Details
- Employment Type: Academic year contract (September 2023 – June 2024)
- Location: Remote coordination with on‑site instruction at Long Island City High School, Queens, NY
- Compensation: $25 – $35 per hour (commensurate with experience and qualifications)
- Schedule: Monday‑Thursday, 2:30 pm – 5:30 pm; occasional Saturdays for rehearsals or events
- Reporting To: Upward Bound Program Director, St. John’s University
Core Responsibilities
Your day‑to‑day impact will be measured by the growth, enthusiasm, and confidence of the students you serve. The following responsibilities outline the breadth of your role:
- Curriculum Design & Delivery
- Create age‑appropriate lesson plans that blend foundational technique with creative improvisation across multiple dance styles (hip‑hop, ballet, African, pointe, tap, salsa, merengue).
- Integrate cross‑disciplinary themes—such as globalization, cultural history, and artistic expression—into dance discussions to broaden students' worldviews.
- Lead engaging warm‑ups, drills, and skill‑building exercises that enhance strength, balance, coordination, and overall physical literacy.
- Choreography & Performance Management
- Conceptualize, develop, and rehearse original dance pieces for seasonal concerts, community showcases, and special events.
- Oversee all performance logistics, including costume selection, prop procurement, lighting design, and stage layout.
- Coordinate with parents, school staff, and community partners to ensure smooth execution of each event.
- Student Mentorship & Communication
- Build trusting relationships with each participant, offering individualized feedback on technical progress and artistic growth.
- Maintain regular, transparent communication with parents/guardians regarding attendance, performance milestones, and areas for improvement.
- Foster an inclusive classroom culture where diverse cultural backgrounds are celebrated and every voice is heard.
- Program Administration & Budget Oversight
- Develop a season‑specific event budget, tracking expenses for costumes, equipment, studio space, and other supplies.
- Maintain accurate records of attendance, lesson outcomes, and program evaluations using MS Office and Google Workspace tools.
- Submit timely reports to the Upward Bound leadership team, highlighting successes, challenges, and recommendations for future iterations.
- Collaborative Teamwork
- Participate actively in faculty meetings, professional development workshops, and community outreach initiatives.
- Step in to support other instructional areas (e.g., music, theater, visual arts) when program needs arise.
- Adhere to all health, safety, and regulatory standards set forth by the Department of Health, Upward Bound, and funding agencies.
Essential Qualifications
To thrive in this role, candidates must demonstrate a combination of educational background, professional experience, and personal attributes that align with the mission of Upward Bound.
- Education: Minimum of a high school diploma or GED; college coursework or a degree in Dance, Performing Arts, Education, or a related field is strongly preferred.
- Certification: Formal teaching certification or a recognized credential in at least one dance discipline (e.g., Certified Dance Instructor, Ballet Pedagogue, Hip‑Hop Trainer).
- Teaching Experience: At least 2 years of experience teaching dance to adolescents, preferably within after‑school or community program settings.
- Technical Skills: Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite (PageMaker, Photoshop) for promotional materials is a plus.
- Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to convey complex concepts in a clear, engaging manner.
- Availability: Commitment to the specified schedule (Mon‑Thu 2:30 pm‑5:30 pm, occasional Saturdays) and ability to travel to Long Island City High School.
Preferred Qualifications & Additional Strengths
- Experience working with students from low‑income or first‑generation college backgrounds.
- Knowledge of culturally responsive pedagogy and ability to integrate multicultural dance traditions.
- Background in event production, costume design, or stage management.
- Fluency in a second language (Spanish, Mandarin, etc.) to broaden communication with diverse families.
- Demonstrated commitment to continuous professional development through workshops, certifications, or academic coursework.
Key Skills & Competencies
- Instructional Design: Ability to create progressive lesson plans that cater to varying skill levels.
- Artistic Vision: Creative mindset for choreographing original pieces that reflect students' cultural narratives.
- Interpersonal Insight: Empathy and cultural competence to build rapport with a heterogeneous student body.
- Organizational Acumen: Strong time‑management and budgeting skills to orchestrate performances and manage resources.
- Problem‑Solving: Proactive approach to addressing logistical challenges and adapting to evolving classroom dynamics.
- Technology Integration: Comfortable using digital platforms for scheduling, communication, and virtual teaching when needed.
Work Environment & Culture
St. John’s University fosters a collaborative, mission‑driven environment where staff members are encouraged to innovate and grow. As an Activity Specialist, you will work within a supportive network of educators, administrators, and community volunteers who share a passion for youth empowerment. The after‑school setting provides a vibrant, energetic atmosphere where creativity flourishes, and every day brings new opportunities to inspire the next generation of leaders.
- Inclusive Community: A campus and program culture rooted in respect for all identities, backgrounds, and perspectives.
- Professional Growth: Access to St. John’s faculty development resources, workshops, and mentorship programs.
- Safety First: Comprehensive health and safety protocols, regular site inspections, and ongoing training for staff.
Compensation, Benefits, & Perks
We value the expertise and dedication you bring to the role. In addition to a competitive hourly wage ($25‑$35), St. John’s University offers a suite of benefits designed to support your wellbeing and professional advancement:
- Health & Wellness: Access to university‑affiliated health plans, mental‑health resources, and wellness workshops.
- Professional Development Stipend: Annual budget for conferences, certifications, or specialized training.
- Paid Time Off: Pro‑rated vacation and sick leave aligned with the academic calendar.
- Employee Assistance Programs: Confidential counseling and support services for personal or professional challenges.
- Networking Opportunities: Invitation to faculty seminars, alumni events, and cross‑departmental collaborations.
Career Path & Advancement
St. John’s University is committed to nurturing talent from within. Successful Activity Specialists often transition into expanded roles such as:
- Lead Coordinator for Arts Programs across multiple schools.
- Curriculum Developer for university‑wide extracurricular initiatives.
- Director of Student Engagement or Community Outreach.
- Graduate teaching or research positions within the College of Education.
By excelling in this role, you’ll build a robust portfolio of program management, choreography, and youth mentorship—experience that is highly transferable across educational, nonprofit, and cultural‑arts sectors.
Application Process
We are excited to learn about the unique talents you can bring to our Upward Bound community. To be considered, please submit the following materials through the Apply button below:
- Curriculum Vitae/Resume – Highlighting relevant dance teaching experience, certifications, and any community‑service involvement.
- Cover Letter – A thoughtful narrative describing your passion for dance education, alignment with Upward Bound’s mission, and specific ideas you would bring to the Long Island City High School program.
- Portfolio (Optional) – Links or PDFs of choreography videos, lesson plans, or performance photos that showcase your artistic style.
- References – Contact information for at least two professional references who can attest to your instructional abilities and character.
All applications will be reviewed promptly. Upon shortlisting, candidates will be invited to a virtual interview followed by an on‑site teaching demonstration (subject to health guidelines).
Equal Opportunity Statement
St. John’s University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strongly encourage applicants of all genders, races, ethnicities, sexual orientations, gender identities, abilities, and veteran status to apply. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to any protected characteristic.
Take the Next Step – Join Our Creative Mission
If you are ready to ignite the artistic potential of young learners, shape vibrant community performances, and grow within a university that prizes inclusive excellence, we want to hear from you. Click the button below, submit your materials, and embark on a rewarding journey where dance meets empowerment.
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