Step Specialist - Brooklyn

ABOUT US

New York Edge is the largest provider of after-school and summer camp programs in New York City public schools. Each year, programs in academics, including STEM, the arts, sports and wellness, and college access, help 40,000 students develop leadership skills and succeed in school. Working parents count on our programs to provide safe and enriching environments for their children.

SUMMARY

New York Edge is seeking passionate and enthusiastic people to fill the role of Step Specialist. Step Specialists (Stepping or step-dancing) should have knowledge and experience in this form of percussive dance. They must be able to produce complex rhythms and sounds through a mixture of footsteps, spoken words, and hand claps. The Step Specialist should have experience teaching or performing in groups of three or more, often in arrangements resembling military formations. Additional knowledge in gymnastics, break dance, tap dance, marching, African and Caribbean dance, or stunts are preferred- but not required. Step Specialists should have good speed when stepping and experience using props such as canes, rhythm sticks, and blindfolds. Specialists should teach basic dance principles and go beyond through the act of demonstration. Students will follow, and the step specialist will challenge students to use their creative thinking in art. Exploring creativity is part of stepping. Step Specialists will utilize and adapt the New York State Arts Learning Standards and the New York Edge curriculum to create engaging activities encouraging participation in New York Edge programs.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Establish and enforce rules for behavior and procedures for maintaining order among the students for whom they are responsible.

• Teaches the art of step, ensuring that each member is afforded an equal opportunity in learning the art.

• Have the ability to understand and carry out instructions.

• Organize performance groups and direct their rehearsals.

• Establish clear objectives for all lessons, units, and projects, and communicate those objectives to students.

• Ascertain and interpret group interests, evaluate equipment and facilities, and adapt activities to meet the student’s needs.

• Prepare materials and classrooms for class activities.

• Explain principles, techniques, and safety procedures to participants in the activities and demonstrate the use of materials and equipment.

• Evaluate activities to determine if they are producing desired results.

• Adapt teaching methods and instructional materials to meet students' needs and interests.

• Progressive development of student skills leading to a final project

REQUIRED SKILLS

• Must have knowledge of step terminology, history, and resources to develop a well-rounded and cohesive study of step dancing throughout the school year.

• Must have knowledge and prior experience choreographing step-dancing and putting a performance together.

• Prior experience teaching and instructing youth preferred

• Must be able to follow a curriculum

• Must be responsible, reliable, and punctual!

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are required.

• May be required to walk up and down stairs.

• May have to lift or move objects/materials as needed.

• Work is performed mostly within a New York City Public School but may be required to interact with the community at-large during trips or events.

QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma or Equivalent required; some college preferred

• A minimum of one year of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required.

• A minimum of one year of teaching experience is required.

• Must have passion for New York Edge's mission and demonstrated interest in education and youth development.

• Candidates qualified to lead instruction in more than one activity are also preferred.

WORK SCHEDULE

• 9-15 hours per week.

• Monday through Friday -- 2:30 pm - 5:30 pm

The Step Specialist will be required to report to the school building and interact with staff, students, parents, and school administration.

At the time of offer and acceptance, the job requires safety and security clearances through the Department of Education and Department of Health.

New York Edge is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

Disclaimer: The statements herein describe the general nature and level of work the employee performs in this position. These statements are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of a person in this position.