Instructor - Performing Arts

The OPARC Mission

OPARC believes that all individuals deserve the human right to be valued members of society regardless of their intelligence or physical capabilities. OPARC exists to make training, employment, and social opportunities available and to be the champion for thousands of people with disabilities in Southern California.

Title: INSTRUCTOR- PERFORMING ARTS

General Statement of Function: The Instructor of Performing Arts will oversee the design, implementation, and delivery of Performing Arts programs that cater to individuals' creative and artistic development. This role requires advanced expertise in various performing arts disciplines, including but not limited to theater, dance, music, and performance techniques.

Essential Functions:

The Instructor will use adaptive teaching methodologies to facilitate creative expression while aligning with person-centered goals, fostering a collaborative environment for participants, and ensuring the art programs meet diverse educational needs including employment readiness. The role includes mentorship, staff training, and direct instruction to support individual artistic development while promoting self-expression, confidence, and skill-building in performing arts.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop and design comprehensive performing arts curricula that are adaptable to different skill levels, learning styles, and artistic interests (e.g., acting, dance, vocal performance, instrumental music).
• Ensure that activities align with individual person-centered plans, targeting specific goals for personal, creative, and professional growth.
• Lead dynamic performing art classes, rehearsals and workshops, utilizing innovative teaching methods to inspire creativity.
• Provide individualized support, guidance and constructive feedback to participants, helping them explore their artistic expression and improve their performance skills.
• Provide 75% or more of direct care to participants, leading group and individual sessions in music, theater, dance, and other performance disciplines.
• Maintain schedules for classes and activities.
• Use good judgment in implementing interventions as needed to support participant engagement and safety.
• Ensure that the teaching environment supports creative exploration and helps participants build both technical skills and self-confidence in performance.
• Contribute suggestions and feedback to person-centered plans, collaborating closely with the Program Manager, Case Manager and interdisciplinary team.

• Collaborate with community organizations to expand program reach and impact.
• Monitor participant progress toward goals and program effectiveness through regular assessments, participant input and feedback. Implement strategies for continuous improvement and adjustment as necessary.
• Mentor and train staff and volunteers in best practices for teaching performing arts, including adaptive methodologies, curriculum development, and participant engagement.
• Lead professional development for staff focused on enhancing arts-based instruction and supporting individuals' creative journeys.
• Alongside the Program Manager, organize art exhibitions, outings, performances, and community outreach activities to showcase participant work and promote awareness.
• Foster partnerships with local artists and organizations to enhance program offerings.
• Maintain accurate and complete documentation of participant progress, program activities, and incidents. Complete special incident reports as required and adhere to mandated reporter responsibilities.
• Oversee the management of performing arts supplies, equipment, and materials, ensuring that they are accessible, safe, and appropriate for each activity.
• Ensure that the instructional environment supports creative freedom, independence, and self-expression
• May transport up to 6 participants and assigned support staff, in an Oparc vehicle, for community outings during program hours.
• All other duties and responsibilities assigned.

Authority: The Performing Arts Instructor has the authority to make decisions regarding the implementation of art programs and participant engagement strategies. This includes making critical decisions regarding curriculum design, instructional methods, and participant engagement strategies. This role involves collaboration with the Program Manager to provide feedback on individual and programmatic progress. Provides assistance with mentorship of Program Aides.

Supervises: Aides assigned

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Performing Arts, Art Education, Special Education, or a related field preferred.
• Experience working with adults with intellectual disabilities, especially in creative arts or therapeutic settings preferred. Strong understanding of adaptive teachingtechniques and various art forms.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, demonstrating respect and empathy.
• Ability to maintain accurate documentation and report incidents appropriately.
• Competence in providing health and safety supervision and interventions as needed.
• Commitment to promoting an inclusive, respectful, and safe environment for all participants.
• Current CPR and First Aid training required. 
• Willing and able to drive participants in an Oparc vehicle.
• Able to lift up to 25 lbs. by self, up to 150 lbs. with one other person; able to push wheelchair with participant up to one mile; standing up to 80% of the day, walking up to 80%, sitting up to 80%, pushing up to 80%, bending and pulling required up to 50%; squatting up to 25% and repetitive motion may be necessary up to 80% of the day; use chemicals in accordance with manufacturer’s labeled instructions.
• Ability to tolerate working outside in the elements and/or inside (without heat and air conditioning; cement floors).

Location: Oparc- Montclair, California

Reports To: Program Manager- Creative Arts

Schedule: 8:00am – 4:30pm, (times vary) Monday through Friday, includes a 1/2 hour unpaid lunch