Summer Camp Teaching Artist

Position: Summer Camp Teaching Artist (Lead & Assistant)
Reports to: Director of Education
Supervises: n/a
Status: Hourly (Seasonal)
Compensation: $19/hr (Lead Teaching Artist), $17/hr (Assistant Teaching Artist)

Dates: June 1 – August 7
Location: Cultural Arts Center at Disciples Christian Church, Cleveland Heights
Camp Hours: 8:00am–6:00pm
Teaching Artist Shifts: 4–5 hours per day, Monday-Friday

Position Overview

Talespinner Children’s Theatre (TCT) is seeking Summer Camp Teaching Artists (Lead and Assistant) to support our summer arts education programs. Teaching Artists should be passionate educators who are invested in inclusive, child-centered teaching practices and enjoy working with young people in a creative environment.

TCT has the stated goal of being the most inclusive theatre in Cleveland. Our camps serve a wide range of ages, abilities, and backgrounds, so Teaching Artists should be comfortable supporting diverse learners and creating a welcoming, accessible environment for all participants.

Teaching Artists will lead or support daily camp activities, including performance-based learning, creative play, and collaborative projects in areas such as acting, movement, storytelling, and design.

Responsibilities

Program Delivery (85%)

• Lead or assist with daily camp activities and lesson implementation
• Support classroom management, student engagement, and behavior expectations
• Create a positive, inclusive, and safe environment for all campers
• Provide individualized support to campers as needed
• Assist with setup, cleanup, and organization of materials and spaces
• Support transitions throughout the camp day, including arrival, dismissal, and breaks
• Document camp activities through photos, feedback, and basic reporting as requested
• Serve as a representative of TCT, upholding the organization’s mission and values

Lead Teaching Artists may also:

• Adapt and implement lesson plans based on provided curriculum
• Guide classroom structure and pacing
• Mentor and collaborate with Assistant Teaching Artists

Assistant Teaching Artists may also:

• Provide direct support to Lead Teaching Artists and campers
• Assist with small group facilitation and individual support

Training & Professional Development (15%)

• Participate in pre-camp training focused on TCT teaching philosophy, safety procedures, and inclusive practices
• Engage in ongoing check-ins and support with Lead Teaching Artists and the Director of Education
• Learn and apply practices such as trauma-informed care, culturally responsive teaching, and Universal Design for Learning
• Observe and learn from fellow Teaching Artists to build skills and experience

Qualifications

• Experience working with children in educational, camp, or arts settings preferred
• Background in theatre or related arts (acting, movement, design, etc.)
• Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills
• Ability to be flexible, energetic, and responsive in a fast-paced environment
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and accessibility

Additional Information

TCT values Teaching Artists as both educators and creative practitioners. Summer Camp Teaching Artists play a key role in fostering creativity, confidence, and collaboration in young people through the arts.

To Apply

Send a video introduction or cover letter explaining why you are interested in the position and what makes you a good fit for TCT. Please also include your resume.

Applications should be sent to Rebecca Burcher (she/her) at Rebecca@talespinnercle.org. Positions will remain open until filled.