BALLROOM BASIX (BBX) is an arts-in-education initiative dedicated to nurturing the social, emotional and physical well-being of schoolchildren — transforming the landscape of the classroom by instilling values of kindness, cooperation, camaraderie, inclusion, self-confidence, courtesy and respect in our young students through the joy of Ballroom, Latin & Line dancing.

BALLROOM BASIX (BBX) Teaching Artists are passionate individuals who love the performing arts. Our work fosters self-expression, validation and joyfulness through the shared experience of dancing, which can truly make a difference in kids’ lives, and by extension their communities.

Are you ready to make a difference for children in NYC?

We are looking for Teaching Artists/Assistants who possess a genuine desire to connect with young people through our unique BALLROOM BASIX syllabus and methodology — facilitating meaningful connections among classmates in a respectful, rotational format.

Through the “BBX Experience” we promote poise, courtesy, teamwork, camaraderie, and consent. Because our program is non-competitive, we strive to provide a space for inclusion and equity wherein all students connect with one another regardless of popularity, ethnicity, ability or identity.

As a new Teaching Artist Assistant (or Apprentice), you’ll work with an experienced Teaching Artist to learn our curriculum, including cultural information about the dances to enable students to connect with their own (and others’) cultures. By assisting an experienced Teaching Artist, you receive hands-on training in demonstrating dances, working creatively with students as you provide in-class support for the Teaching Artist.

Teaching Artists/Assistants may work 2-5 days/week in residencies in schools in New York City. Each Residency is 2-4 hours one-day per week, mornings and/or afternoons and usually run 12 – 14 weeks.. This is a great opportunity for individuals who are looking for part-time work during the school day. 

We provide paid training, and prepare you for your own Residencies the following school semester. We will host in-person and/or hybrid training sessions to help you learn the dances and class content, and provide support so you will be ready for your own Residencies.

We’d love for you to join us in teaching schoolchildren the “basix” of Ballroom & Latin partner dancing non-competitively — with an emphasis on fun, good manners, and acceptance. To apply and learn more about BALLROOM BASIX, please send a headshot (if available), resume, and a brief cover letter to info @ no spam ballroombasix.org that also includes your availability (days and times) for the Spring (and if possible, summer).

Requirements: 

Acting, dancing, teaching, and/or performing arts experience — plus a pleasant and outgoing personality — are essential. Some partner dancing experience is preferable but not mandatory. Memorizing our script & syllabus is part of the training process. Our Teaching Artists and Assistants are high energy, charismatic and have the ability to inspire kids in 3rd – 9th grades.

Our schools are in all boroughs, so you need to be comfortable traveling by public transit or car to arrive at your school(s) on time. We are especially looking for candidates that are based in Staten Island, as our program is expanding!

If offered a Teaching Artist Assistant or Apprentice position, you must be able to commit to a 2-4 month training period (part-time during school and/or after school hours). As an Apprentice / Assistant, you will be offered a confirmed weekly schedule. We have school day and after-school part-time opportunities available. Compensation is commensurate with experience.