Adaptive Dance Assistant
Reports To: Founding Artistic Director | Executive Director
Position Summary
The Adaptive Dance Assistant plays a vital direct-service role in KDO’s Dancers with Disabilities (DwD) programs. Working under the direction of the Founding Artistic Director, Teaching Artists, and program leadership, Assistants provide individualized physical, emotional, and instructional support to dancers with a wide range of physical, developmental, intellectual, sensory, and behavioral needs.
This role is present in all aspects of DwD programming, including weekly classes, rehearsals, performances, and special events, and represents KDO in all interactions with participants, families, and community members.
Primary Responsibilities
In-Studio and Class Support
- Work directly in dance classes alongside Teaching Artists to support the full participation of dancers with disabilities.
- Provide hands-on physical assistance, movement facilitation, positioning, and adaptive support as needed during class time.
- Support dancers in learning choreography, movement concepts, rhythm, and creative expression.
- Assist with behavior support strategies and engagement techniques in collaboration with Teaching Artists.
- Help maintain a safe, structured, and positive learning environment for all participants.
- Adapt quickly to individual dancer needs in real time during class.
Rehearsals and Performances
- Actively support dancers during rehearsal processes for KDO performances, including staging, transitions, and choreography retention.
- Provide physical and emotional support during performance preparation and show execution.
- Assist backstage, onstage, and in transition areas during events.
- Support dancers during KDO’s Event of the Year and other performances as assigned.
- Help ensure all dancers can safely and successfully participate in performance experiences.
Family and Program Communication
- Communicate professionally with families, caregivers, and participants as needed.
- Support the creation and updating of student profiles and participation notes.
- Share relevant observations with Teaching Artists and program leadership to support dancer progress.
- Represent KDO with professionalism and care in all interactions.
Program and Administrative Support (Light)
- Assist with basic documentation related to dancer participation and progress.
- Support attendance tracking, notes, and program organization as needed.
- Participate in scheduled trainings, rehearsals, and staff meetings.
- Follow all program policies, safety procedures, and inclusion practices.
Attributes & Qualifications
- Passion for KDO’s mission of inclusion, accessibility, and empowering dancers of all abilities.
- Experience in dance, movement, choreography, or dance education strongly preferred.
- Experience working with individuals with disabilities required (through education, therapy, recreation, caregiving, or related fields).
- Background in occupational therapy, physical therapy, special education, speech therapy, behavioral support, or adaptive recreation is highly valued.
- Strong ability to provide hands-on physical support in a safe and respectful manner.
- Excellent communication, patience, and adaptability in dynamic environments.
- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a teaching and support team.
- Must be willing to train in and apply KDO’s teaching methodology rooted in the NDI Method® (National Dance Institute Method).
- Required to complete foundational training and demonstrate understanding of KDO’s approach to adaptive dance instruction and classroom support.
Required Skills / Abilities
- Ability to actively participate in movement-based activities for extended periods.
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, reach, and move continuously throughout classes and rehearsals.
- Ability to provide safe hands-on physical support, including guiding, lifting, stabilizing, and assisting dancers with mobility needs.
- Ability to support participants who require partial or full physical assistance.
- Ability to respond quickly and safely in fast-paced studio and performance environments.
Schedule and Commitment
- Seasonal independent contractor role.
- Primarily Saturday mornings through afternoons.
- Schedule provided in advance based on program needs.
- Occasional weekday evening rehearsals, workshops, or performances throughout the year, especially during production periods.
Compensation
$30–$45 per hour, based on experience and qualifications. Multiple openings available for this role.
To Apply:
Please submit your resume and a cover letter to Executive Director Mónica M. Muñoz at [email protected]. Please include "Adaptive Dance Assistant Application – [Your Full Name]" in the subject line. Applications will be accepted through Monday, July 31, 2026, or until the position is filled.
EEO Statement
Kids Dance Outreach is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law. We are committed to a work environment that supports, inspires, and respects all individuals.
Pay: $30.00 - $45.00 per hour
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
