Welcome to Apollo After School – Where Movement Meets Mentorship
At Apollo After School, we believe that dance is more than just steps and rhythm; it is a powerful vehicle for confidence, creativity, and community. Founded over a decade ago, our organization partners with local public and private schools across New Jersey to deliver high‑quality after‑school enrichment programs that spark curiosity and foster lifelong learning. From STEM clubs to artistic workshops, our mission is simple: provide safe, supportive, and engaging experiences that help every child thrive. As part of this vibrant ecosystem, our After‑School Dance Instructor role sits at the heart of our creative offerings, delivering fun, skill‑building dance sessions to students ages five through twelve.
Why This Role Is a Game‑Changer for Your Career
Imagine shaping the next generation of dancers while enjoying the flexibility of an evening schedule that works around your own commitments. This position offers a unique blend of teaching, choreography, and mentorship, giving you the chance to refine your instructional techniques, expand your repertoire across multiple dance styles, and build a portfolio of real‑world classroom experience. Whether you hold a formal dance degree, a teaching certification, or simply a burning passion for movement and kids, Apollo After School welcomes your enthusiasm and commitment.
Key Responsibilities – What Your Day Will Look Like
- Lesson Planning & Curriculum Design: Develop age‑appropriate, engaging lesson plans that cover foundational techniques, basic choreography, and creative expression for beginner‑level dancers.
- Classroom Management: Create a positive, inclusive atmosphere where every child feels valued, safe, and motivated to participate.
- Instruction & Demonstration: Teach a variety of dance styles—including Ballet, Jazz, Hip‑Hop, and Creative Movement—while adapting instruction to suit diverse learning speeds.
- Safety Oversight: Monitor the studio space to ensure a hazard‑free environment, implement warm‑up and cool‑down routines, and respond promptly to any injuries or concerns.
- Performance Preparation: Guide students through end‑of‑year showcases, rehearsals, and informal performances that celebrate their progress.
- Parent Communication: Provide regular updates to parents regarding class progress, upcoming events, and suggestions for supporting practice at home.
- Collaboration with Staff: Coordinate with other after‑school program leaders, school administrators, and support staff to align schedules, share resources, and maintain program quality.
- Continuous Improvement: Seek feedback from students, parents, and colleagues, and attend professional development workshops to stay current with dance education trends.
Essential Qualifications – What We’re Looking For
- Passion for Dance & Youth Development: A genuine love for dancing and a heartfelt desire to inspire young learners.
- Experience with Children: Prior experience teaching, coaching, or mentoring children ages 5‑12 is highly valued (formal teaching experience not mandatory).
- Broad Knowledge of Dance Styles: Familiarity with at least two of the following—Ballet, Jazz, Hip‑Hop, Contemporary, or Creative Movement.
- Strong Communication Skills: Ability to articulate concepts clearly, give constructive feedback, and engage both children and adults effectively.
- Energetic & Patient Demeanor: Patience to work with beginners, energy to keep classes lively, and the poise to handle classroom dynamics.
- Reliability & Professionalism: Punctual attendance for scheduled sessions (Monday‑Friday, 3 pm‑6 pm) and adherence to all program policies.
Preferred Qualifications – Nice‑to‑Have Add‑Ons
- Formal dance training or a degree in Dance, Performing Arts, or Education.
- Certification in First Aid/CPR, especially for children.
- Experience choreographing original pieces for youth ensembles.
- Familiarity with inclusive teaching practices that support children of varied abilities.
- Background in other enrichment areas (e.g., music, theater) that could enhance cross‑disciplinary collaboration.
Core Skills & Competencies for Success
- Instructional Design: Ability to break down complex movements into digestible steps.
- Creativity: Skill in developing fun, original routines that keep children excited.
- Adaptability: Capacity to modify lesson plans on the fly based on class energy or individual needs.
- Positive Reinforcement: Expertise in delivering encouraging feedback that builds confidence.
- Time Management: Efficiently manage the 3‑hour daily block while covering warm‑up, technique, choreography, and cool‑down.
- Technology Fluency (Optional): Comfortable using basic digital tools for attendance tracking and sharing video demos with parents.
Compensation, Perks, & Benefits
We recognize and reward dedication. While hourly rates range from $18 to $21 based on experience, our total rewards package goes beyond the paycheck:
- Flexible Evening Schedule: Work Monday through Friday from 3 pm‑6 pm, allowing you to pursue personal projects or additional teaching opportunities.
- Professional Development Stipend: Access to workshops, conferences, and online courses in dance education and child development.
- Performance Opportunities: Participate in community showcases, school assemblies, and seasonal concerts.
- Discounted Studio Space: Free or reduced‑cost access to Apollo’s rehearsal studios for personal practice or choreographic projects.
- Health & Wellness Perks: Eligibility for group health plans, wellness challenges, and employee assistance programs.
- Paid Time Off & Holiday Pay: Recognized holidays and vacation days to recharge.
- Referral Bonuses: Earn extra compensation by referring qualified dance professionals to our network.
Career Growth – Your Pathway Within Apollo After School
We view every instructor as a potential future leader. As you demonstrate excellence, you could advance to roles such as:
- Lead Dance Coordinator: Oversee multiple dance classes across several schools, shape curriculum, and mentor junior instructors.
- Program Director – Arts & Performance: Design and manage a broader portfolio of arts enrichment programs, including theater and music.
- Regional Training Specialist: Conduct workshops for new instructors, share best practices, and develop instructional resources.
- Full‑Time Faculty Position: Transition to a year‑round teaching role with expanded responsibilities and benefits.
Our internal promotion pipeline is built on clear performance metrics, continuous feedback, and a supportive learning environment.
Work Environment & Culture – What It Feels Like to Be Part of Apollo
At Apollo After School, we champion a culture of
- Inclusivity: Every child and staff member is valued for their unique background and abilities.
- Collaboration: Teachers, administrators, and support staff share ideas freely, fostering a sense of community.
- Innovation: We regularly incorporate new teaching technologies, creative curricula, and interactive formats.
- Playful Professionalism: While we maintain high standards for safety and learning, we also celebrate creativity and fun.
- Community Engagement: Events, parent nights, and local performances connect our programs with the neighborhoods we serve.
Our Morristown location features spacious studios with hardwood floors, mirrored walls, and age‑appropriate props—all designed to inspire movement. Safety protocols, including regular equipment checks and sanitization routines, ensure a healthy environment for staff and students alike.
Application Process – How to Join Our Dance Family
Ready to make a lasting impact on young dancers?
- Submit Your Resume & Cover Letter: Highlight your dance experience, teaching philosophy, and any relevant certifications.
- Portfolio (Optional): Include videos of past classes, choreography samples, or performance reels that showcase your style.
- Initial Screening: Our recruiting team will review applications and reach out for a brief phone interview.
- Demo Lesson: Candidates will be invited to lead a short, 30‑minute sample class with a small group of children (virtual or in‑person) to demonstrate instructional ability.
- Final Interview & Reference Checks: Meet with the Program Director and discuss expectations, schedule, and growth opportunities.
- Offer & Onboarding: Receive a formal offer, complete paperwork, and begin your orientation before the first school day of the 2023‑2024 academic year.
Closing Thoughts – Your Next Step
If you are a dynamic, enthusiastic dance professional who loves guiding children toward self‑expression and confidence, we want to hear from you. This is more than a part‑time job; it’s a chance to ignite a lifelong passion for movement in young hearts while advancing your own career in a supportive, forward‑thinking organization.
Take the leap. Apply today, and become an essential part of Apollo After School’s vibrant dance family.
Apply Now