What are the responsibilities and job description for the Part-Time Theater Teacher position at The Island School?
Established in 1977, The Island School is K-5 nonprofit independent school located on Bainbridge Island, Washington. Nestled among the trees, the campus provides a warm, open, and airy environment that encourages exploration and learning. The school emphasizes hands-on education, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and strong communication skills in its students. As the only elementary school on Bainbridge Island accredited by the Northwest Association of Independent Schools (NWAIS), The Island School is committed to maintaining high educational standards.
At The Island School, we believe that music is a vital part of a well-rounded education. Our K-5 part-time Theater Teacher plays an essential role in inspiring a love for the performing arts, fostering creativity, and nurturing students’ artistic and social-emotional growth. Through engaging and developmentally appropriate instruction, our theater program encourages students to explore storytelling, character, movement, and self-expression in a supportive and joyful learning environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design and deliver an engaging, sequential theater curriculum that fosters dramatic literacy, creativity, and appreciation for diverse theatrical traditions.
- Teach general theater classes for students in grades K-5, incorporating acting, improvisation, movement, storytelling, and basic stagecraft experiences.
- Engage students in differentiated and meaningful learning through culturally responsive teaching practices. Create an inclusive, student-centered environment that fosters participation, respect, self-expression, teamwork, and self-confidence.
- Develop a sustainable, long-term theater curriculum designed to thrive independently of staffing transitions, while consistently providing students with authentic, high-quality performance experiences.
- Provide meaningful ongoing assessment and feedback to support student growth, and partner effectively with families. Collaborate with classroom teachers and other specialists to support student growth and learning.
- Maintain costumes, props, audio/stage equipment, and script materials, ensuring they are organized and in good condition.
- Communicate effectively with students, families, and colleagues. This includes attendance at all staff meetings, providing a monthly classroom update, and completing progress reports twice a year.
Required Experience, Skills and Qualities:
- Minimum Bachelor's degree in Theater, Drama, Education, or a related field.
- Genuine passion for working with elementary-aged children and a commitment to their holistic development.
- Excellent communication and strong classroom management skills.
- Commitment to The Island School mission.
- Ability to pass a background check.
Ideal Experience, Skills and Qualities:
- Strong understanding of social-emotional learning principles.
- A demonstrated commitment to culturally responsive teaching.
- A growth mindset with evidence of a commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
- Experience teaching theater or drama to elementary students.
FTE, Compensation & Schedule:
- Position Starts: August 2026.
- This position is a non-exempt 0.1 FTE position.
- The weekly teaching schedule is 3 hours total teaching time a week spread over 6 classes, K-5 (30 minutes each)
- There may be additional class sessions in March in preparation for our closing Ceremony in early April.
- Compensation is between $5,637.00 and $9,391.00 depending on experience.
- Specific weekly schedule is not currently set, likely classes will be in the afternoons 2 days a week.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:
Don’t meet every single skill and quality? Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At The Island School we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive and authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experiences don’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply.
Nondiscrimination Statement:
The Island School does not discriminate in its hiring or employment practices on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, gender, national or ethnic origin, citizenship or immigration status, sex, ancestry, age, family or marital status, sexual orientation , gender identity or expression, genetic information, honorably discharged veteran or military status, and/or the presence of any physical disability (including pregnancy), mental disability, or sensory disability, or any other legally protected characteristic or status.
Application Process:
Interested candidates are encouraged to visit our website at to learn more about our philosophy and community.
To apply, please submit the following through Indeed by Friday, July 31st:
- A cover letter detailing your interest and suitability for the role.
- A current resume.
Additional Information may be requested via Indeed message or email.
The Hiring Committee will be reviewing applications in early August.
Join us in contributing to a vibrant educational community where children are nurtured and celebrated.
Pay: $5,637.00 - $9,391.00 per year
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
Salary : $5,637 - $9,391