Overview of Organization:
The Asase Yaa Cultural Arts Foundation is a Brooklyn-based nonprofit organization that has enriched New York City communities through African Diasporic arts for more than 25 years. As an approved NYC Department of Education vendor, we partner with public and charter schools across the city to provide high-quality arts education through African dance, West African djembe drumming, theater, and culturally responsive enrichment programming.
What we are looking for:
We are looking for teaching artists who are students studying dance, theater, music, arts education, and related fields who are looking for meaningful, paid opportunities to teach, inspire, and make a difference in NYC classrooms.
Our teaching artists do more than teach. They serve as mentors and cultural ambassadors, helping young people build confidence, creativity, and a deeper appreciation for the arts. For many emerging artists and educators, this role provides valuable professional experience while allowing them to continue developing their own artistic practice.
Job Description:
Your role as a teaching artist is to plan and deliver engaging, culturally grounded instruction in dance, music, or related disciplines, in line with the goals set for your placement.
Your duties may include:
- Plan and facilitate engaging arts education classes in African dance, West African djembe drumming, theater, or other African Diasporic arts disciplines.
- Communicating with the Outreach Coordinator regarding scheduling and site needs
- Deliver culturally responsive, age-appropriate instruction for students in NYC public and charter schools.
- Foster an inclusive, respectful, and positive classroom environment that encourages creativity, self-expression, and confidence.
- Serve as a positive role model, mentor, and cultural ambassador for students from diverse backgrounds.
- Introduce students to the history, traditions, and cultural significance of African Diasporic arts.
- Adapt lesson plans and teaching strategies to meet the needs of different grade levels, learning styles, and classroom settings.
- Collaborate with classroom teachers, school administrators, and Asase Yaa staff to support program goals and student success.
- Manage classroom behavior using positive reinforcement and effective classroom management techniques.
- Prepare materials and equipment needed for lessons, performances, and workshops.
- Actively participate with students and be prepared for movement-based disciplines
- Maintain professionalism while representing the Asase Yaa Cultural Arts Foundation at partner schools and public events.
- Attend staff meetings, orientations, and professional development trainings.
- Travel to assigned schools throughout New York City according to program schedules.
- Uphold NYC Department of Education policies, organizational standards, and child safety guidelines.
Position Requirements:
- Minimum of 12 completed college credits
- Mandatory training is required
Additional Benefits:
- Free Adult Dance Classes
- Tickets to all Asase Yaa Productions
- Up to 1 hour of free Dance Studio Space after 30 hours of every work time.
