Our Mission
FORXA’s mission is to empower students, families, and communities
through high-quality enrichment programs in STEAM, arts, culture, and
leadership that inspire confidence, creativity, and lifelong learning. We
partner with schools to provide engaging, standards-aligned experiences
that help students discover their potential and build the skills needed for
future success.
Our Vision
FORXA envisions a future where every student has access to meaningful
enrichment opportunities that nurture creativity, cultural awareness,
academic growth, and self-belief. We strive to be a leading partner in
education by transforming learning environments into spaces where
students feel inspired, supported, and empowered to achieve their
dreams.
Job Overview
We are seeking a vibrant and passionate Folk Dance Instructor to inspire and educate students in the rich traditions of folk dance from around the world. This dynamic role involves designing engaging dance curricula, leading energetic classes, and fostering an appreciation for cultural arts through movement. The ideal candidate will bring enthusiasm, creativity, and expertise in dance instruction, with a focus on community engagement and youth development. As a Folk Dance Instructor, you will play a vital role in nurturing students’ artistic talents, enhancing their cultural awareness, and building confidence through movement and performance.
Essential Job Responsibilities
- Deliver FORXA's curriculum with consistency, enthusiasm, and instructional excellence.
- Create engaging, inclusive, and student-centered learning environments.
- Facilitate daily lessons while maintaining student participation and engagement.
- Establish and maintain positive classroom management using restorative and positive behavior strategies.
- Supervise students at all times and ensure their safety and well-being.
- Take accurate student attendance and follow all attendance procedures, if necessary.
- Adapt instruction to meet diverse learning styles, abilities, and individual student needs.
- Encourage creativity, collaboration, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
- Foster positive relationships with students, staff, school personnel, and families.
- Prepare classrooms and instructional materials before each program session.
- Maintain and care for program supplies, equipment, and technology.
- Communicate student concerns, incidents, and program updates to the Site Lead promptly.
- Follow all FORXA, district, and state safety policies and procedures.
- Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities.
- Maintain professional appearance, punctuality, and reliability.
- Complete required documentation, attendance records, and incident reports accurately and on time.
- Support special events, performances, showcases, and family engagement activities as assigned.
- Demonstrate flexibility by assisting with program needs and collaborating with fellow team members.
- Serve as a positive role model by demonstrating professionalism, integrity, respect, and enthusiasm every day.
- Develop comprehensive curriculum plans that introduce students to various folk dance styles, incorporating cultural context and history.
- Lead lively, well-structured dance classes for diverse age groups, ensuring an inclusive and motivating environment.
- Teach choreography techniques, dance steps, and performance skills with clarity and enthusiasm.
- Manage classroom behavior effectively to maintain a positive learning atmosphere conducive to creativity and growth.
- Incorporate musical instruments, rhythm exercises, and visual arts elements to enrich dance lessons.
- Organize performances or showcases to highlight student progress and celebrate cultural traditions.
- Collaborate with other arts educators to integrate folk dance into broader arts education programs and youth initiatives.
Required Qualifications
- College credits
- Minimum one (1) year of experience working with school-age children in an educational, youth development, recreation, childcare, or enrichment setting.
- Experience leading group activities or classroom instruction.
- Strong classroom management and behavior support skills.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to build positive relationships with students, families, school staff, and coworkers.
- Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with a team.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Basic computer proficiency, including Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Gmail, and Drive).
- Current CPR/First Aid certification or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire.
- Ability to successfully pass DOJ/FBI Live Scan fingerprint clearance and all required employment background checks.
- Ability to submit a TB test.
- Ability to lift up to 25 pounds and perform duties requiring standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and active supervision of students throughout the program day.
- Proven experience in teaching dance, especially folk or traditional styles, with a strong background in choreography and movement instruction.
- Demonstrated ability to develop engaging lesson plans tailored to different age groups and skill levels.
- Experience working with children and youth programs, including early childhood or preschool settings.
- Knowledge of classroom management techniques and behavior management strategies.
- Skills in teaching visual & performing arts, music education, or theater are highly desirable.
- Familiarity with musical instruments related to dance instruction or musical accompaniment is a plus.
- Background in creative arts instruction such as sewing, photography, ballet, cooking, or culinary arts is beneficial but not required.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to work collaboratively with students, parents, and fellow educators.
- Passion for cultural education, community engagement, and fostering artistic expression through dance.
Schedule: Monday–Friday (after school hours) Hours: 17–20 hours per week
Location: Salinas, CA (Multiple School Sites)
Pay: $22-25.00 per hour
Mandatory times: 2:30pm-6PM
Join us as a Folk Dance Instructor and help ignite a lifelong love of cultural arts! Bring your energy, creativity, and expertise to inspire learners of all ages while celebrating the vibrant traditions of folk dance from around the world.
Eligible employees may receive:
- Competitive hourly compensation based on experience and qualifications.
- Paid Sick Leave in accordance with California state law and applicable local ordinances.
- Participation in the FORXA 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan, subject to plan eligibility requirements and enrollment guidelines.
- Holidays Off for eligible employees in accordance with FORXA's holiday schedule and company policy.
- Professional development, training, and continuing education opportunities.
- Ongoing coaching and mentorship from Site Leads and FORXA leadership.
- Opportunities for career growth, advancement, and leadership development within the organization.
- Employee recognition and performance-based advancement opportunities.
- A positive, collaborative, and mission-driven work environment focused on student success.
Equal Opportunity Employer
FORXA Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.
Pay: $20.00 - $25.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Paid sick time
- Paid training
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
- Travel reimbursement
Work Location: In person