Program Specialist- Cheer/Dance Instructor

YMCA of Greater Bergen County; New Milford (NJ); On-site; USD 30,000 - 46,000; Part time

Job summary

A community-focused organization in New Jersey is seeking a Dance/Cheer Instructor to provide instruction and develop program curriculum for children. The ideal candidate should have experience working with kids, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to organize age-appropriate activities. The role involves supervising classes and engaging with students, ensuring a positive experience aligned with YMCA values.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Previous experience in educational settings preferred.
• Ability to implement developmentally appropriate activities.
• Ability to supervise and manage a classroom.
• Commitment to YMCA core values: Caring, Honesty, Respect, Responsibility.

Responsibilities

• Provide basic instruction in dance/cheer.
• Supervise children in the studio.
• Develop lesson plans in consultation with the Enrichment Director.
• Report observations to the Enrichment Director and coordinate with Cultural Arts staff.
• Assist in planning the annual recital, including costume measurements and attendance.
• Attend open houses, staff meetings, and trainings as required.
• Arrive on time and ensure proper dismissal of students with authorized adults.

Skills

Experience working with children

Strong interpersonal skills

Ability to plan and organize

Communication skills

Professional integrity

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY

Under the direction of the Enrichment Director, the Dance/ Cheer Instructor provides basic instruction and implements program curriculum in the dance studios. In consultation with the Enrichment Director, helps develop ideas for project curriculum. The individual provides a quality experience to children and parents that focuses on the YMCA core values: honesty, respect, responsibility, and caring.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Implements curriculum within the established guidelines set by Enrichment Director
• Develop and implement lesson plans.
• Supervises children in studio.
• Engages with each student and maintains effective control of class.
• Makes ongoing, observations of each child and is able to report to Cultural Arts Director.
• Reports back to The Enrichment Director in a timely manner regarding any issues.
• Maintains studios, supplies, and equipment; includes letting The Enrichment Director know about supplies in a timely manner.
• Attends and participates in open houses, program activities, staff meetings, and staff training.
• Arrives no more than 10 minutes before the start of class and remain in class 10 minutes after.
• Ensures that all students are dismissed to designated parent / guardian or has written permission to leave class on their own.
• Maintains accurate attendance for YMCA records.
• Assists in planning annual recital with Cultural Arts Director, includes measuring for costumes and attending the annual recital in June.

OTHER DUTIES

• Exhibits personal and professional behavior in a manner consistent with the best interest of the Association, so as not to bring discredit to the Association.
• Demonstrates and models the YMCA’s four core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.
• Performs such other job-related duties as may be periodically assigned by the Enrichment Director.
• Cooperates, work effectively and congenially with all YMCA staff members, volunteers, and members of the Association.
• Volunteers for events throughout the year: Open Houses, Festivals, Healthy Kids Day, Strong Kids Campaign.

YMCA COMPETENCIES (Leader)

Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Y’s values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fund-raising.

Collaboration: Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other person’s point of view, and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others.

Operational Effectiveness: Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to another. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience. Establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans work and actively participates in meetings. Follows budgeting policies and procedures, and reports all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members.

Personal Growth: Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an openness to change, and seeks opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths and limitations and how they impact relationships. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS

• At least 18 years of age.
• Previous experience working with children, preferably in a studio and educational setting.
• Ability to plan, organize, and implement age-appropriate/developmentally appropriate program activities.
• Strong team-player abilities.
• Able to work with minimal supervision.
• Works well with parents and children.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate all levels including staff, Board members and members of the general public.
• Ability to work with integrity, discretion and a professional approach.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Sufficient strength, agility and mobility to perform essential functions. This work requires the following physical activities: climbing, bending, stooping, kneeling, twisting, reaching, sitting, standing, walking, lifting, finger dexterity, grasping, repetitive motions, talking, hearing, and visual acuity. The work is performed primarily indoors, and may require occasional travel. Must be able to lift 50 lbs.