Dance Specialist

The Police Athletic League (PAL) is the largest independent youth organization in New York City that provides educational and recreational activities for children and young adults. PAL Inc. and The New York City Police Department work in partnership to provide communities with summer and after-school recreational and educational activities.

We are looking for a part-time Dance Specialist who will be responsible for developing and implementing a broad range of cultural and/or fine arts activities. Introduce participants to activities that promote creativity and self-expression for participants in the program. Direct and oversee all arts & crafts, creative, and performance activities according to the curriculum and/or center needs, in preparation for displays and entertainment at the PAL Celebration events. Plan, organize, and manage arts programming that is cohesive within the scope of the program. Perform administrative duties that support the above primary functions.

Major Duties & Responsibilities

• Model and uphold all Agency policies and procedures.
• Ensure that age-appropriate activities are implemented for youth in 6-8th grades.
• Plans organize and oversee varied activities with the support of Center leadership staff, Group Leaders, volunteers, and other specialty staff.
• At all times, ensure safety, structure, and learning.
• Work with the Education Specialist to ensure activities align with NYS Education Standards and support the goals of the schools' participants attend.
• Promote and stimulate interest and participation in all performing arts activities.
• Provide ideas and suggestions to the Education Specialist and Center Director for improving programs as often as possible.
• When presenting a problem or offering constructive criticism, also present an alternative solution.
• Build positive relationships with youth and adults and serve as a role model with respect to demeanor, communication, and behavior.
• Provide direction to staff in a manner that ensures that program areas are neat and clean and that equipment and supplies are managed appropriately.
• Quickly identify and seek to resolve conflicts and behavioral problems in consultation with the program coordinator.

Additional Responsibilities

• Engage a group of 15-20 students in a curriculum exploring the art of dance as a tool for project-based learning
• Introduce students to the world of Dance and a variety of forms such as modern, tap, ballet, hip hop, salsa, etc.
• Plan and post-activity schedules and evidence of work in approved areas.
• Make periodic reports/announcements on program activities and evaluate participation, progress, and development of program youth.
• Responsible for the inventory, ordering, care, and maintenance of all related supplies and equipment.
• File incident reports (accidents, injuries, altercations) no later than the day of the incident.
• When directed, attend meetings with staff, parents, volunteers, and community residents as needed to assist in program delivery and promotion of programs.
• Interact with parents and keep open lines of communication to better understand and manage the children.

Skills/Knowledge Required

• A minimum of two years of academic preparation in fine arts or other equivalent training.
• A minimum of two years of work experience in a non-profit youth or social service agency with supervisory experience.
• Understanding conflict resolution, mediation, and mentoring concepts.
• Good communication skills, both oral and written.
• Ability to speak professionally to staff members, parents, community residents, visitors, NYPD officers, and PAL partner organizations.
• Familiarity with administrative protocols involving dress, demeanor, record keeping, reporting, confidentiality, visitors, and use of supplies and equipment.

Salary: $18.00 Per Hour

The Police Athletic League seeks to hire staff who reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. All positions at PAL are filled without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, HIV/AIDS status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. All are encouraged to apply.

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