Enthusiastic Arts Education Director eager to contribute to team success through hard work, attention to detail and excellent organizational skills. Motivated to learn, grow and excel in Arts Education.
Seasoned and passionate arts educator and creator who's driven to share knowledge and love for the arts. A Chicago native who fell in love with dance and artistic expression 30 years ago. Since immersing in arts education, Sarah brings a contagious positive energy, professionalism, and dedication to growth in every project opportunity and workplace. Sarah is a leader and problem solver who thrives in fast paced environments.
Creative, adaptable, and committed makes Sarah a great asset to any team.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
Founder/Owner/Artistic Director
Steadfast Dance Center
Chicago, IL
08.2016 - Current
Founded arts organization from a living roo of 30 students to a professional dance studio in the heart of Pilsen that has served 100s.
Created arts organization's seasonal performance and selected performers for upcoming events.
Oversaw operation of on-set sound and lighting equipment to achieve superior production results.
Contributed to creative process through original ideas and inspiration.
Developed targeted marketing and sales strategies to promote successful organizational and artistic outcomes.
Directed day-to-day business operations and made strategic decisions to further organizational goals and fiscal objectives.
Resolved client concerns quickly and professionally to maintain respectful and productive project environment.
Achieved individual and troupe success through enhanced collaborative and communications skills.
Auditioned, selected and coached teaching artists to execute high-quality performances and enhance class education value.
Established and maintained productive, professional working relationships to promote beneficial project results.
Implemented artistic vision to give art purpose and meaning.
Performing Arts Teaching Artist
Opportunities For All & Envision
Chicago, IL
06.2017 - Current
Facilitated group sessions and provided one-on-one support.
Developed lesson plans surrounding various types of art, history and culture.
Assisted students in coming up with and executing detailed final projects for exhibition.
Planned and executed activities to promote skill and talent development.
Planned in-school and student performances.
Modeled interpersonal relationships with staff members, students and administrators and strived to enhance student learning and well being.
Created and delivered lessons through distance, virtual and face-to-face learning and fulfilled requirements of district's curriculum program.
Prepared detailed lesson plans.
Created movement based activities for tests and quizzes to determine student comprehension.
Integrated movement and theater based learning into the classroom to create a safe and positive learning environment.
Created lesson plans for Elementary and Middle school grade classes to increase student interest and participation.
Created and developed lesson plans to meet students' academic needs.
Developed and implemented classroom routines to address varying student needs.
Increased educational expertise and knowledge by participating in instructor-oriented workshops.
Worked with staff members and teachers to design comprehensive and individualized plans to optimize student education.
Modified lessons and curriculum to accommodate diverse learners by using strategies such as peer-assisted learning and group work.
Fostered student curiosity and interest through creative hands-on activities.
Teacher Assistant
Chicago Public Schools CPS
Chicago, IL
08.2013 - 10.2015
Kept records of student progress for teachers and parents and made notes on details such as behavior, grades, comprehension and personal growth.
Provided one-on-one and group-based learning support to maintain student progress and development.
Worked with teachers to coordinate activities for classes, consistently noting successful ideas and identifying areas for improvement.
Set up visual aids, equipment and classroom displays to support teacher's lesson delivery.
Supported instructor with test administration and assignment grading.
Performed staff monitoring duties such as overseeing recess, lunch and daily student intake and dismissal.
Monitored students on field trips, handling roll call and group movement to keep youths safe in public settings.
Oversaw groups of students at school and off-site locations, maintaining optimal safety and security.
Recorded grades for coursework and tests in online reporting system.
Distributed learning materials such as worksheets, textbooks and supplemental activities.
Oversaw students in classroom and common areas to monitor, enforce rules and support lead teacher.
Collated classroom materials to help teachers prepare for daily instruction and activities.
Lead Teaching Artist
Frida Kahlo Community Org
Chicago , IL
06.2012 - 07.2014
Cultivated relationships with other artists and internal partners to develop positive rapport for future opportunities.
Mentored junior artists on creative processes.
Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships.
Collaborated with team members to achieve target results.
Lead Dance Instructor
Matli Dance Academy
Chicago , IL
01.2010 - 06.2013
Planned, prepared and delivered lesson plans introducing students to dance techniques.
Assisted with coordination and administration of complete dance program.
Coached individual students one on one as well as group classes.
Communicated with students and parents in person, via email and by phone to resolve issues and answer questions.
Adhered to studio guidelines and legal requirements.
Planned and oversaw group, couples and individual dance performances.
Choreographed dance numbers for school's year-end recital.
Created healthy and safe learning environment for all students by implementing class rules and promoting mutual respect and gentle discipline.
Planned routines for recitals and performances.
Worked in team-based environment to uphold quality and continuity of service to clients.
Utilized different styles of teaching to accommodate students of all capabilities.