Temporary Recreation Leader III- Ballet Instructor

City of Alexandria; Alexandria (VA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Alexandria’s Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities seeks a Temporary Ballet/Dance Instructor to plan and lead safe, age‑appropriate dance classes for youth and adults. The role covers Pre‑Ballet through Levels 1–3, introductory Pointe, and related movement programs, with emphasis on inclusivity and artistic expression.

You will develop engaging lessons, adapt for varying levels, and coordinate with staff to deliver quality programming.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma required and related experience in dance instruction.
• First Aid training completed or provided.
• 2–3 years in dance instruction or related field.
• Experience teaching ballet to youth and/or adults.

Responsibilities

• Planning and leading developmentally appropriate dance instruction for youth and/or adult participants.
• Teaching ballet fundamentals, technique, rhythm, coordination, flexibility, and movement skills.
• Creating engaging lesson plans that support participant growth and enjoyment.
• Adapting instruction to varying skill levels and participant needs.
• Maintaining a safe, organized, and respectful class environment.
• Communicating effectively with participants, parents/guardians, and recreation staff.
• Collaborating with recreation staff to support quality programming and participant experience.
• For youth classes, choreographing and rehearsing short recital performances that showcase student progress and learning outcomes.

Skills

Ballet technique knowledge

Youth and adult instruction

Classroom management

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Safety awareness

Education

High School Diploma

CPR and First Aid certification

Job description

Temporary Recreation Leader III- Ballet Instructor

Recreation Services Division

A Message from the Director

Welcome to the City of Alexandria’s Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities. I am excited that you are considering joining our team. Every day, we have the privilege of serving a city that values connection, creativity, and community. Our parks, programs, and cultural spaces reflect Alexandria’s diversity and spirit, and our people are the heart of it all.

As you explore opportunities within RPCA, know that you are stepping into a department where teamwork, curiosity, and service guide everything we do. We take pride in our work, we find purpose in our impact, and we celebrate the difference each team member makes. Together, we are building something meaningful for the people of Alexandria, and I am grateful for your interest in being part of it.

Hashim T. Taylor, Director

Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities

About You

You are service-minded, dependable, and take pride in your work. You bring energy, professionalism, and a sense of purpose to every task, whether maintaining a park, supporting a program, or greeting visitors.

By joining RPCA, you become part of a team that takes pride in serving Alexandria and shaping experiences that last a lifetime.

As part of RPCA, you will be expected to:

• Serve with purpose and approach each day with enthusiasm and a commitment to excellence
• Embody accountability and curiosity by taking initiative, asking questions, and seeking solutions
• Demonstrate teamwork and respect, supporting colleagues and fostering a positive, inclusive environment
• Stay responsive and reliable by being attentive, dependable, and engaged with the community
• Reflect our values through transparency, professionalism, and wholehearted dedication to service

Temporary Ballet/Dance Instructor – Position Overview

The Temporary Ballet/Dance Instructor is responsible for planning and leading safe, engaging, and age‑appropriate dance instruction for youth and/or adult participants through the City of Alexandria Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities (RPCA). Instruction may include Pre‑Ballet, Ballet Levels 1–3, introductory Pointe, creative movement, beginner adult ballet, conditioning‑based dance classes, or other dance and movement‑based programming depending on program needs and instructor experience.

Instructors create a positive and inclusive learning environment that promotes physical wellness, creativity, confidence, discipline, and artistic expression. The ideal candidate demonstrates strong instructional skills, professionalism, and the ability to engage participants of varying ages and skill levels in a structured and supportive setting.

Responsibilities may include:

• Planning and leading developmentally appropriate dance instruction for youth and/or adult participants.
• Teaching ballet fundamentals, technique, rhythm, coordination, flexibility, and movement skills.
• Creating engaging lesson plans that support participant growth and enjoyment.
• Adapting instruction to accommodate varying skill levels and participant needs.
• Maintaining a safe, organized, and respectful class environment.
• Communicating effectively with participants, parents/guardians, and recreation staff.
• Collaborating with recreation staff to support quality programming and participant experience.
• For youth classes, choreographing and rehearsing short recital performances that showcase student progress and learning outcomes.

High School Diploma and three (3) years of related experience or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. First Aid training.

Additional requirements: 2–3 years of experience in dance instruction, performing arts, recreation programming, or a related field; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

• Previous experience teaching ballet or dance classes to youth and/or adults.
• Strong knowledge of ballet technique, terminology, and instructional practices.
• Experience teaching multiple age groups and skill levels.
• Experience choreographing and coordinating youth recital performances.
• Ability to foster a positive, inclusive, and engaging learning environment.
• Strong classroom management and communication skills.
• Training, certification, or formal education in dance, performing arts, or a related field.
• CPR and First Aid certification preferred.

Weekend availability is required.

• Occasional weekday evening hours and attendance at special events or performances may be required.
• Youth program instructors will be required to participate in end‑of‑session recitals or showcases.