Pones
Summary
Teaching artists contracted in the Pones Laboratory of Movement program are compassionate, skilled movement practitioners who use the art form as a tool for creative expression, emotional wellbeing, and community connection. This role blends artistic excellence and social-emotional learning with trauma‑informed facilitation to support participants of diverse ages, backgrounds, and abilities. The Teaching Artist leads inclusive, movement‑based classes, residencies, and community programs that foster self‑expression, resilience, and wellness through the arts.
Typical Responsibilities
Program Delivery
● Facilitate engaging classes for diverse participants (e.g- PreK–12 students, patients, senior citizens, and/or community groups) while creating a safe and welcoming environment that empowers them to explore movement at their own comfort level
● Provide programming, typically between 2:00-6:00pm at partner locations
● Travel to partner locations throughout the Greater Cincinnati region; for locations greater than 20 miles from downtown, a mileage-based travel stipend will be included
Curriculum & Planning
● Implement lesson plans and movement experiences aligned with curriculum goals and participant needs
● Collaborate with partners to tailor content for specific audiences and settings
● Submit evaluation materials to support program assessment and growth
Community Engagement
● Build trusting relationships with program partners, participants, and families by modeling empathy, cultural sensitivity, and inclusive practices
Artistic & Professional Practice
● Stay current on best practices in dance/movement education, trauma-informed pedagogy, arts in health, and community arts
● Participate in ongoing training, team meetings, and collaborative planning sessions
● Uphold professional ethics regarding boundaries, participant confidentiality, and safe movement instruction
Qualifications
Required
● Strong dance/movement skills in creative expression, dance, and mindfulness
● Experience teaching diverse groups in school and community settings
● Knowledge of trauma-informed facilitation, movement safety, and inclusive classroom management
● Strong communication, empathy, and interpersonal skills
● Ability to adapt instruction for different ages, abilities, and comfort levels
● Ability to pass BCI/FBI background checks; additional screenings, training, and proof of vaccination may be required at some locations
● Commitment to teach at least 10 classes per contract year, with weekday 2–6pm availability for afterschool programs
● Reliable transportation and commitment to arrive on time to class locations
Preferred
● Experience collaborating in school and community partnerships
Working Conditions
● Work may occur in schools, community centers, healthcare settings, arts organizations, or other similar locations; for example: Covington Independent Public Schools, Cincinnati Public Schools, various library branches, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati, New Path, UpSpring, and Episcopal Retirement Services. See Pones Complete Partnership List on our website at pones.org/laboratory-of-movement
● Class hours vary based on partner requests and schedules, and may include daytime, evening, or weekend opportunities; teaching artists opt into classes they are available and qualified to teach.
Compensation
This is an independent contract position paid at the standard rate of $45 per 60-minute class; occasionally, classes with longer durations or other special circumstances may have different rates. This position is not eligible for benefits.
About Pones
Pones provides artistic opportunities for community growth by creating engaging new ways for audiences to experience dance. Pones is committed to providing arts education to participants of all ages and experience levels. Visit Pones.org to learn more.
To apply: Please complete our Interest Form or email Jackie@pones.org indicating that you’d like to be considered for a Teaching Artist position. Jackie Smith, our Education Director, will review your submission and follow up with you. We look forward to hearing from you!
