Performing Arts Teacher (Music, Dance & Theater)

Sela PCS•Washington, DC

7d•$58,525 - $98,328•Onsite

About The Position

As the Performing Arts Teacher, you will introduce elementary students to the joyful worlds of music, creative movement/dance, and dramatic play/theater. In this role, you will design and deliver a vibrant, multi-sensory arts curriculum tailored to diverse elementary age groups. You will collaborate with classroom homeroom teachers (both English and Hebrew) to weave linguistic and cultural elements into your lessons, ensuring a seamless, high-energy arts experience that builds confidence, self-expression, and collaboration for our diverse student body.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
At least two years of elementary arts teaching experience with a proven track record of creating engaging, age-appropriate performances or classes.
Exceptional oral and written communication
Ability to sing, move, play an instrument (preferred but not required), and inspire a diverse group of learners.
Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Music Education, Dance Education, Theater Education, or Elementary Arts
A teaching license
Ability to play an instrument

Responsibilities

Design standards-aligned elementary arts lesson plans that integrate music (rhythm, singing, instrumentation), dance (creative movement, choreography), and theater (storytelling, dramatic play, script work).
Create a balanced approach of structured arts instruction and purposeful, creative exploration that accommodates diverse learning styles and elementary developmental milestones.
Regularly assess student engagement, artistic development, and creative growth through informal and observational assessment data to tailor instruction and foster inclusion.
Maintain an inviting, high-energy, and nurturing studio/classroom environment through effective, positive classroom management and developmentally appropriate routines tailored to elementary learners.
Partner closely with homeroom teachers, fellow arts specialists, and instructional leaders to support school-wide events, integrate language concepts where appropriate, and ensure a unified student experience.
Uphold the firm belief that all students can achieve and express themselves at high levels, fostering an inclusive environment that values diversity and validates each child's unique voice.
Plan and deliver engaging, hands-on arts instruction (Music, Dance, and Theater) tailored to the elementary school level.
Develop instructional materials and utilize diverse instruments, props, and storytelling tools that support student engagement and differentiated learning.
Establish clear, student-friendly creative objectives and regularly encourage student reflection and individual expression.
Participate in collaborative planning with elementary and arts teams.
Create and maintain a safe, respectful, warm, and physically secure space for movement and performance.
Implement classroom management practices that promote safety, collaboration, spatial awareness, and active participation.
Foster student voice, confidence, imagination, and independent artistic choices.
Ensure equitable access to instruments, costumes, props, and learning resources.
Collaborate with special education teachers, English learner specialists, counselors, and support staff to ensure the performing arts are accessible to all learners.
Participate in student support processes, including identifying students who thrive in creative modalities or need modified physical or auditory supports.
Implement accommodations and modifications as required by Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), 504 Plans, or other student support plans.
Maintain regular, professional communication with families regarding elementary arts milestones, sharing glimpses of their children's creative achievements.
Support, plan, or participate in school community gatherings, winter showcases, or family engagement opportunities that highlight student creative work.
Participate in professional development, staff meetings, and required school training.
Engage in instructional coaching cycles and feedback processes to continuously refine arts education teaching practices.
Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and accountability in all job responsibilities.
Contribute positively to the school’s professional culture and collaborative work environment.
Comply with all applicable school policies, procedures, and professional expectations.
Maintain student confidentiality in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and other applicable laws.
Serve as a mandated reporter and comply with all child abuse reporting requirements under applicable law.
Follow school policies related to student supervision, safety, physical movement limitations, and conduct.
Maintain accurate and timely student records, including participation tracking and attendance.