Teaching Artists, Afterschool/Signature Performing Arts Program (SPAP)

Teaching Artists, Signature Performing Arts Programs Teaching Artists lead specialized residencies in LEAP afterschool programs across New York City, facilitating standardized curriculum frameworks for programs such as LEAP 360 (musical theater + history), Project VIBE (movement + spoken word), Young Artivists (arts + activism), and LEAP OnStage (playwriting). They guide students through project-based, inquiry-driven creative processes that integrate storytelling, history, social justice, and arts-based learning. Teaching Artists collaborate with students, educators, school partners, and LEAP staff to culminate residencies in original performances that showcase student voice and celebrate diverse stories and perspectives. Facilitate a standardized curriculum framework for Signature Performing Arts Programs; (LEAP 360, Project VIBE, Young Artivists, and LEAP OnStage) - guiding students through a project-based, inquiry-driven creative process that integrates arts and academics and culminates in original performances. Direct and stage high-quality final performances that showcase student voice, artistry, and learning for afterschool communities, families, and citywide culminating activities. Lead engaging, student-centered lessons that connect storytelling, history, social justice, and performance while fostering creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking. Create inclusive and supportive classroom environments where students explore, express, and grow as artists and scholars. Adapt the standardized curriculum framework to meet classroom needs while maintaining program fidelity and learning goals. Collaborate with Afterschool & SPAP leadership, fellow teaching artists, and school partners to align strategies, support student progress, and prepare for culminating events. Integrate reflection, ensemble-building, and artistic rigor into the creative process to deepen student understanding, expression, and academic connections. Complete required documentation such as lesson plans, attendance, assessments, and performance details accurately and on time. Participate in professional learning communities and trainings to strengthen instructional practice and align with LEAP's creative youth development approach. Support performance logistics, including timely supply requests and production preparation. We're seeking passionate and skilled teaching artists committed to arts education, creative youth development, and honoring diverse stories, identities, and perspectives. The ideal candidate is collaborative, reflective, and dedicated to guiding young people through meaningful creative processes that lead to artistically rigorous, high-quality final performances and deepen academic learning. Core Competencies & Strengths :Artistic Expertise: Demonstrated proficiency in one or more disciplines, including musical theater, theater, dance, vocal music, piano, guitar, playwriting, or spoken word Ability to direct and stage culminating performances that reflect student voice, creativity, and artistic excellence Commitment to artistic rigor and the creative process, ensuring students build strong artistic skills and confidence while exploring their creative voices Pedagogical Skills: Strong teaching practice grounded in project-based learning, student inquiry, backwards planning, and arts-integrated instruction Experience implementing and adapting a standardized curriculum framework to meet diverse classroom needs while maintaining program fidelity and learning outcomes Ability to connect artistic practice to academic content, historical context, and social issues to deepen student learning and engagement Classroom Management: Capacity to create a safe, inclusive, and culturally responsive learning environment where students feel supported, challenged, and empowered Skill in fostering ensemble collaboration, facilitating productive group dynamics, and cultivating student discipline, leadership, and accountability Communication & Collaboration: Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to build and sustain positive relationships with students, educators, school partners, and program staff Collaborative approach and ability to work effectively within a creative team to align instructional strategies, plan lessons, and support culminating events Cultural Responsiveness: Deep commitment to honoring diverse stories, identities, and perspectives and weaving them meaningfully into arts learning experiences Experience working with Students with Disabilities and English Language Learners, ensuring that all students can participate fully and thrive Professional Development & Adaptability: Dedication to continuous learning and growth as an educator and artist through professional learning communities and organizational training Flexibility and adaptability in responding to classroom dynamics, student needs, and program goals across multiple school settings Commitment to ongoing reflection and practice to continually strengthen approaches to arts education and creative youth development

Pre-employment screening is required for this position, including but not limited to criminal history checks by regulating agencies as needed per placement. We are an equal employment opportunity employer.