Theatre Arts and Musical Instructor

This isn’t just a job, it’s a calling.

Our mission at Meristem is to prepare young adults on the autism spectrum to build a strong sense of self, develop an enhanced social capacity, and create a life of increased social and economic independence. We strive to create a world where the unique capabilities of adults on the spectrum are respected and appreciated. We facilitate the ability of adults with autism to have full and meaningful lives, with ample opportunities for mainstream employment and independent living.

Meristem is a great place to work and grow. We all work together, each of us motivating those around us with our commitment to high standards. At Meristem we have a highly motivated team, a rewarding career path and opportunities for personal growth.

Location: 9200 Fair Oaks Blvd. Fair Oaks, CA 95628

Status: Non-Exempt, Full-time

Weekday Shift: Monday-Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Our Benefits show how much we value our team!

• $20 - $25 per hour depending on experience
• Medical, Dental and Vision insurance; generous portion paid by the Foundation
• Extremely Generous Paid Holiday Schedule that includes extended holiday breaks (Spring Break – 5 days/ Thanksgiving Break- 5 Days/ Winter Break- 10 Days) in addition to 5 other holidays.
• Paid Vacation
• Paid Sick Leave

This position both challenging and rewarding!

Music, one of the most powerful influences in our lives coupled with theatre and the arts, sources of personal and environmental expressions, makes this position a triple teaching powerhouse in the lives of those on the spectrum. This position works with students in the process of engaging with the material and supports them to navigate effectively what arises from working with the material.

This adventure also includes following the student’s schedules and routines to optimize their success in their individualized programs while working collaboratively with the student’s peers to ensure they complete program standards.

Job Responsibilities:

• Prepare curriculum and lesson plans for daily instruction with a developmental progression
• Assess students abilities, connect them with projects and lessons that support them to develop their skills and track their progress through the progression.
• Record daily notes from the field based on students goals and objectives.
• Develop individualized plans with students as needed
• Maintain Meristems cultural norms and be active in shaping a positive culture
• Maintain and manage the space and materials of the classroom spaces you use for instruction
• Attend weekly staff meetings and staff check in’s
• Participate in staff training and practice the Meristem method to the best of your ability.
• Develop a professional growth plan with your immediate supervisor
• Engage with parents as asked.
• Teach basic music skills including simple instruments, voice, guitar, and drums.
• Support neuro diverse students through development of musical skills.
• Teach theater arts including improv, plays, vocal and expressive skills, character development and general theater and drama practices.
• Support clients to put on performances showcases of their development.
• Experience in and or willingness to learn Waldorf Education, Eurythmy, pedagogy/Spacial Dynamics/TME principles and activities
• Build and manage budgets around material needs for your classes
• Support the onboarding process of new students and staff
• Actively familiarize and engage with the materials from the key founding bodies of work that the meristem program is built on.
• Engage in collaborative educational offerings with colleagues
• Engage the highest level of your skills as an instructor
• Teach other program specific content when asked
• Implement program oriented approaches
• Participate in student substitutions when members of the team are out
• Perform other duties as asked and directed

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent educational experience
• At least two years of experience working in education
• Experience working with a Neuro Diverse population
• 1-2 years’ experience working with a comparable participant population to meristem or similar experience
• Familiarity with either Transformative movement education, Ruskin Mill therapeutic craft education or Waldorf education

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