We know that diverse teams make the strongest teams, and we encourage people from all backgrounds to apply. We strive to create an equitable and inclusive working environment.

 

TEACHING ARTIST FELLOW

 

EMPLOYMENT TERM: Seasonal, Full Time, Benefits eligible

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DATES: Aug 10, 2022 -May 26, 2023

 

SCHEDULE: Primarily between the hours of 8:00 am-5:00 pm, Monday thru Friday.

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​SALARY: $30,000

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HOW TO APPLY:

Email cover letter,  resume, and sample lesson plan to info@mesnerpuppets.org with subject line "Fellow Applicant" by May 15, 2022. Interview will be held by zoom at end of May by appointment.

 

OVERVIEW:

Mesner Puppet Theater seeks a highly-qualified emerging professional in the field of Theater for Young Audiences for a 10 month Teaching Artist Fellowship for the company’s 35th season. The “Teaching Artist Fellow” will work alongside a team of experienced, innovative, theater, puppetry, and teaching artists professionals to facilitate social-emotional learning through story drama residencies in the greater Kansas City Metro. The fellow’s primary role will be to serve as a lead facilitator for Early Childhood Centers (3-5 year olds). A background in puppetry is not required. Teaching artists will receive training from our Director of Puppetry Arts in basic puppetry skills that will support elements of puppetry used in story drama facilitations. 

 

DUTIES:

Teach story drama residencies for PreK classrooms (3-5 year olds)

Observe and assist other education staff with PreK-2nd grade programs

Develop, plan, and facilitate short term customized arts integration residencies for elementary 

Nurture relationships and communicate with teachers, principals, and site administrator

Assist in the research and writing of resource guides to support productions and education programs

Support facilitation of Professional Development workshops in collaboration with Education Director

Facilitate “In the Workshop”, an interactive puppet performance/workshop as needed

Identify teaching and administrative goals, and engage in regular reflection with Education team

Attend MPT staff meetings, education meetings, and professional development workshops

Other duties as assigned that support the health of the organization and education department

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QUALIFICATIONS:

A strong background in teaching artistry or arts education through academic or practical experience

Experience and passion for working with 3-5 year olds 

Interest in deepening ability to use puppetry as a teaching tool

Strong understanding of Creative Drama theory and strategies

Knowledge of youth development and social emotional learning

Strong organization and administrative skills

Access to reliable transportation as this role drives to schools within 30 minutes of city center

Ability to lift 35 lbs

 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Experience in conscious discipline or similar classroom management theories

Experience with students on the autism spectrum or willingness to learn

 

BENEFITS:

Simple IRA - match up to 3% of employee contribution

Employee Only, Health Insurance Eligible

0.25 per mile - Mileage reimbursement between locations after first 5 miles

 

HOLIDAYS:

• Christmas Day

• Christmas Eve through New Year’s Day (organization is dark)

• Martin Luther King Day

• Memorial Day

• Thanksgiving Day

• Friday after Thanksgiving

• Birthday

 

PERSONAL TIME:

6 days

 

LOCATION:

Kansas City, MO Metro Area , North Kansas City, Smithville, MO.

Note : The city is one of the most affordable cities in the Midwest

 

REPORTS TO:

Director of Education

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