About The Leadership Program
The Leadership Program is a mission‑driven nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering the next generation of New York City youth through innovative, arts‑centric education and leadership development. With a proven track record of transforming under‑served schools into vibrant learning hubs, we blend creative expression, social‑emotional learning, and restorative justice practices to foster resilience, confidence, and academic excellence. Our network spans dozens of public schools across the five boroughs, connecting passionate artists, educators, and activists with the students who need them most.
Why This Role Is a Game‑Changer
We are seeking a Teaching Artist who will serve as a catalyst for change in Bronx schools. This remote, start‑immediately position offers you the rare opportunity to shape curricula, mentor students, and lead after‑school programming while enjoying the flexibility of working from home. If you are an energetic, resourceful, and culturally fluent artist with a heart for community impact, this role will allow you to turn your creative talents into measurable, life‑changing outcomes.
Key Benefits at a Glance
- Competitive hourly rate of $130 for a 3‑hour residency, paid bi‑weekly
- Flexible remote work with occasional on‑site presence in NYC schools
- Professional development in leadership, mindfulness, and restorative justice
- Access to rehearsal, maker, and performance spaces for personal artistic growth
- Membership in a vibrant community of artists, educators, and activists
- Comprehensive wellness resources: mental‑health counseling, legal consultations, and financial‑literacy programming
Core Responsibilities
As a Teaching Artist, you will be the bridge between artistic practice and academic achievement. Your day‑to‑day duties include, but are not limited to:
- Program Implementation: Design, deliver, and evaluate after‑school workshops that align with our student‑centered methodology, focusing on disciplines such as martial arts, dance, multimedia production, chess, and more.
- Mentorship & Role Modeling: Serve as a trusted adult mentor, cultivating a safe and inclusive environment that encourages risk‑taking, self‑expression, and personal growth.
- Student Recruitment & Retention: Proactively engage students, families, and school staff to maintain consistent participation and build a thriving community of learners.
- Curriculum Development: Leverage your artistic background to create lesson plans that integrate Social‑Emotional Learning (SEL), anti‑racist education, and restorative justice principles.
- Logistical Coordination: Set up and dismantle activity spaces, manage supplies, and ensure all necessary equipment is ready for each session.
- Data Management: Accurately record attendance, activity logs, and outcome metrics in our online database on a bi‑weekly schedule.
- Collaboration & Communication: Participate in regular staff meetings, professional development workshops, and cross‑functional projects with other Teaching Artists and program managers.
- Virtual Facilitation: When required, transition sessions to virtual platforms (Zoom, Google Meet, etc.) while preserving engagement and learning objectives.
- Special Projects: Lead or assist with school‑wide events, community‑based performances, and maker‑space initiatives that showcase student work.
Essential Qualifications
- Education: Bachelor’s degree or higher in Education, Fine Arts, Performing Arts, Social Work, or a related field.
- Experience: Minimum of two years working within NYC public schools, after‑school programs, or comparable youth‑focused environments.
- Artistic Expertise: Proven proficiency in one or more of the following: martial arts, athletics, dance, multimedia production, chess, or other performance‑based disciplines.
- Communication Skills: Exceptional verbal and written communication; ability to convey complex concepts to diverse audiences.
- Classroom Management: Demonstrated ability to maintain discipline, foster respect, and create an inclusive learning atmosphere.
- Technological Literacy: Comfortable using virtual teaching tools (Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams) and basic learning‑management systems.
- Background Clearance: Ability to obtain fingerprint clearance through the New York State Department of Education (or already cleared).
Preferred (But Not Mandatory) Qualifications
- Multilingual fluency in Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese, Creole, Bengali, or other languages spoken in the Bronx community.
- Formal training or certification in Social‑Emotional Learning frameworks.
- Experience with anti‑racist pedagogy, restorative justice practices, or culturally responsive teaching.
- Previous work in a remote or hybrid teaching environment.
- Professional certifications in your artistic discipline (e.g., Certified Martial Arts Instructor, Dance Teacher Credential).
Skills & Competencies for Success
- Adaptability: Thrive in dynamic, sometimes unpredictable school settings while maintaining composure and positivity.
- Resourcefulness: Identify and leverage community assets, donations, and partnerships to enrich programming.
- Self‑Motivation: Operate autonomously, set personal goals, and follow through without constant supervision.
- Collaboration: Work seamlessly with fellow artists, school administrators, parents, and community stakeholders.
- Creativity: Continuously generate fresh, engaging activities that resonate with youth from varied cultural backgrounds.
- Empathy & Cultural Sensitivity: Understand and respect the lived experiences of Bronx students, fostering trust and belonging.
- Data‑Driven Mindset: Track outcomes, reflect on feedback, and iterate programs for continuous improvement.
Career Growth & Professional Development
We believe that the development of our Teaching Artists is integral to the mission’s success. As a member of The Leadership Program, you will receive:
- Mentorship Pathways: Pairing with senior educators and seasoned artists for skill‑building and career guidance.
- Performance Coaching: Regular sessions focused on refining instructional techniques, stage presence, and audience engagement.
- Mindfulness & Wellness Workshops: Access to programs that strengthen emotional resilience and work‑life balance.
- Certificate Opportunities: Earn specialized credentials in areas such as Restorative Justice Facilitation, SEL Implementation, and Advanced Multimedia Production.
- Leadership Tracks: High‑performing Teaching Artists may transition into program management, curriculum design, or regional leadership roles within the organization.
- Networking Events: Invitations to community festivals, art showcases, and professional conferences where you can exhibit student work and expand your portfolio.
Work Environment & Culture
Our culture is built on the pillars of creativity, accountability, inclusion, and impact. While the majority of your planning and administrative tasks will be completed from the comfort of your home office, you will periodically travel to Bronx school sites, bringing your artistry directly to the students. The organization values:
- Inclusivity: A diverse staff that reflects the communities we serve, where every voice is heard and valued.
- Collaboration: Regular cross‑disciplinary team meetings that spark innovative ideas and shared solutions.
- Transparency: Open communication about program goals, funding, and outcomes, fostering trust throughout the organization.
- Flexibility: Work schedules that accommodate personal commitments while meeting program timelines.
- Recognition: Celebrating individual and team successes through awards, shout‑outs, and public showcases.
Compensation, Perks & Benefits
We offer a clear, attractive compensation structure paired with a suite of benefits designed to support both professional and personal well‑being:
- Competitive Pay: $130 per 3‑hour in‑person residency, with bi‑weekly direct deposit.
- Health & Wellness: Access to mental‑health counseling, mindfulness training, and holistic wellness resources.
- Legal & Financial Support: Complimentary legal consultations and a financial‑literacy program to help you navigate budgeting, taxes, and savings.
- Creative Resources: Free use of rehearsal spaces, maker labs, and equipment for personal artistic projects.
- Professional Membership: Inclusion in a network of professional artists, educators, and activists, providing collaboration opportunities and peer support.
- Event Discounts: Reduced rates for cultural events, performances, and community attractions across NYC.
- Paid Training: Attendance at workshops, certifications, and conferences covered by the organization.
How to Apply
If you are ready to inspire Bronx youth, showcase your artistic expertise, and join a purpose‑driven team, we want to hear from you! Even if you don’t meet every single criterion, please submit your application—your unique blend of experience, passion, and perspective is what matters most.
To apply, please click the link below, upload your resume, a brief cover letter outlining why you are the ideal fit, and any portfolio materials (videos, project links, performance recordings) that illustrate your artistic background.
Apply Now
Closing Statement
At The Leadership Program, we are committed to creating a brighter future for NYC’s youth—one brushstroke, dance move, chess strategy, or martial‑arts kata at a time. By joining our team, you will play a pivotal role in nurturing confidence, creativity, and community pride within the Bronx. Take the next step in your career, make a lasting impact, and grow alongside a network of passionate change‑makers. Apply today and help shape tomorrow.
Apply Now