Heartbeat Music & Performing Arts Academy is hiring: BALLETTAP TEACHING ARTIST i

Reports to: Dance Education Specialist
Classification: Contractor
Compensation: $40 per hour
Location: Encanto (6785 Imperial Ave., San Diego, CA 92114)
Schedule: 2-4 hours weekly, 1-2 days a week (depending on experience)

Overview

Heartbeat Music & Performing Arts Academy is seeking a dynamic and passionate Dance Teaching Artist to join our Preschool 4 The Arts Program, with a focus on Ballet and Tap. This vital role is perfect for a multi-talented educator who thrives in a creative, collaborative, and inclusive environment and has experience working with preschool-aged children. Inspire and nurture young learners through engaging and developmentally appropriate classes that foster movement, rhythm, discipline, coordination, musicality, and creativity. Ignite a lifelong love for the arts and promote holistic development in our students.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement age- and level-appropriate lesson plans and curricula for ballet and tap for preschool-aged children.
• Lead engaging and structured classes that are educational, fun, and safe, focusing on foundational skills such as movement, rhythm, strength, balance, musicality, and creative expression.
• Create a positive, inclusive, and nurturing classroom culture that supports each child’s learning and self-esteem.
• Monitor and assess student progress; provide constructive feedback to students and communicate with parents/guardians as appropriate.
• Prepare students for seasonal performances, evaluations, and showcases, including choreography, rehearsal planning, and costume coordination.
• Collaborate closely with the Dance Education Specialist, fellow teaching artists, administrative staff, and volunteers to foster a team-based learning environment.
• Stay current with best practices in early childhood arts education and participate in professional development opportunities.
• Support program activities beyond class instruction, including meetings, performances, and special events as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in dance, dance education, kinesiology, child development, physical education, or a related performing arts or health science field (equivalent experience will be considered).
• Minimum 3 years of teaching experience in at least two of the following: ballet and tap with a preference for candidates experienced in all three disciplines and working with preschool-aged children.
• Strong technical proficiency in the relevant dance forms.
• Demonstrated excellence in communication—written, verbal, and interpersonal—and a professional, positive work ethic.
• Passion for nurturing creativity and movement in young children in an engaging and age-appropriate way.
• Strong classroom management, organization, and time-management skills.
• Commitment to reliability, punctuality, and clear communication regarding scheduling and attendance.
• Cross-cultural competency and the ability to work in a diverse community.

Requirements

• Transportation: Reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license or state ID.
• Clearances: Clear background check and fingerprinting live scan; proof of negative TB test results.
• Certifications: First Aid/CPR.
• Others: Ability to lift or carry 20-50 lbs, on an occasional basis.

Commitment

• Up to 250 days per fiscal year based on funding awarded by the California Department of Education (Title 5 funding).
• Includes participation in program meetings, staff training, special events, and student showcases.

Application Process

Applicants are welcome to submit performance or experience links via email to recruiting@hbmpaa.org