Interim Director of Dance

St. Stephen's Episcopal School; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

St. Stephen's Episcopal School seeks an Interim Director of Dance for the remainder of the 2026–2027 academic year. This full-time position begins on November 30, 2026, and concludes at the end of the current school year.

The Interim Director will lead the Upper School Dance program, teaching Dance Technique and Choreography, and directing Chrysalis, with after-school duties. The role requires a bachelor's degree in dance and a minimum of five years' experience teaching high school students;

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in dance performance, choreography or related field; advanced degree preferred.
• Demonstrated excellence as an educator, artist, and/or performer in their field.
• Experience in program administration, production management, and/or artistic direction.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience teaching high school students.

Responsibilities

• Provide vision, leadership, and coordination for the Upper School Dance program.
• Design, implement, and evaluate curriculum that supports student growth.
• Plan and produce performances, manage schedules and budgets.
• Teach four sections of Upper School Dance and oversee after-school programs.
• Mentor faculty and coordinate guest artists and special learning opportunities.
• Promote the program within the school and broader community.

Skills

Communication

Collaboration

Organization

Classroom Management

Dance Instruction

Education

Bachelor's degree in dance performance or related field

Job description

St. Stephen's Episcopal School is seeking an Interim Director of Dance for the remainder of the 2026–2027 academic year. This full-time position begins on November 30, 2026, and concludes at the end of the current school year. The Interim Director will be eligible and welcome to apply for the regular, non-interim Director of Dance position to begin with the 2027–2028 academic year.

The Interim Director of Dance will provide vision, leadership, and coordination for the Upper School Dance program. This role oversees curriculum design, production planning, student development, community engagement to ensure a vibrant and rigorous artistic experience for all students, including teaching Dance Technique and Choreography classes in the Upper School, teaching a set number of private lessons, directing the school's auditioned performing company, Chrysalis, and teaching specialty forms of dance after school.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Manage all aspects of Upper School Dance program including:
  • Develop and articulate a clear vision for the program that aligns with the school’s mission and strategic goals.
  • Design, implement, and evaluate engaging, rigorous, differentiated, inclusive, and sequential curriculum that supports student growth, fosters creativity and aligns with school standards and best practices.
  • Mentor and collaborate with faculty and guest artists to ensure high-quality instruction and a cohesive program. Coordinate guest artists and other special learning opportunities.
  • Plan and produce performances, showcases, or exhibitions; manage schedules, budgets, and logistics.
  • Guide students in skill development, audition preparation, and portfolio/resumé building; create opportunities for them to perform, present, or exhibit their work.
  • Promote the program within the school and broader community through communications, events, and partnerships.
• Teach the equivalent of four sections of Upper School Dance, which could include teaching ensemble classes and seminars, conducting private lessons, managing after school programs, and other duties relevant to the program;
• Serve as a student advisor; supervise students as age-appropriate during: lunchtime, study halls, afternoon activities, library, Chapel and assembly programs required for students; serve as a chaperone at student events, participate in student retreats and community service days, and attend team meetings, as assigned;
• Contribute to the broader school community through participation in meetings, events, and professional development opportunities;
• In alignment with the school's mission and values, employees are expected to collaborate with integrity, promote respect and inclusion, contribute to a vibrant, caring school community, and demonstrate the following behaviors in the performance of their duties:
  • Act ethically in decisions and interactions, and use community resources responsibly.
  • Honor the dignity of all community members, seek to understand and value diverse perspectives, and support a culture of inclusion that contributes to people feeling valued and connected.
  • Demonstrate sound judgment, reliability, and self-awareness; follow school policies, safety protocols, and contribute to a positive and supportive work environment.
  • Pursue ongoing professional growth and model a love of learning for colleagues and students; communicate clearly, constructively, and maintain professional behavior in all interactions.
  • Approach work with initiative and creativity, and work collaboratively across roles and departments to benefit and strengthen the school community.

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in dance performance, choreography or related field – advanced degree preferred;
• Demonstrated excellence as an educator, artist, and/or performer in their field;
• Experience in program administration, production management, and/or artistic direction;
• Minimum of 5 years of experience teaching high school students.

Required Skills and Abilities:

• Commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive classroom environment;
• Ability to effectively engage students across a range of abilities and learning styles;
• Strong communication, collaboration, organization, and classroom management skills;
• Willingness to adapt to evolving teaching assignments in support of institutional needs;
• Commitment to professional growth and collaboration with colleagues;
• Strong organizational, leadership, and communication skills;
• A growth mindset and enthusiasm for lifelong learning and professional development.

Qualified candidates should submit their resume, a letter of interest addressing their qualifications for this role, and a letter summarizing their teaching philosophy.

In accordance with our founding mission and as a diocesan school of the Episcopal Church, St. Stephen's Episcopal School believes in the inherent value and dignity of every human being. We seek qualified candidates who share this foundational belief and are ready to work in community to create a more just society. We celebrate every individual, recognizing that our unique stories, histories, and voices are essential to creating a vibrant living and learning space. As such, we strongly encourage people of all backgrounds, perspectives, and identities to apply to become members of our community.

Equal access to employment, programs, and services is available to all. With respect to its employment practices, St. Stephen’s Episcopal School does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, gender or gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or sexual orientation or identity.