Laboratory Schools: Theater Director (Teacher)

Department​
 

Lab School High School Faculty

About the Department

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At the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools, students in Nursery through Grade 12 experience a world-class educational journey. Founded in 1896 by John Dewey as a place for educators to develop and explore novel approaches to pedagogy and curriculum, Lab continues to provide excitement and imagination in learning to this day. Academic rigor, experiential learning, and intellectual discourse are hallmarks of a Lab education. Lab educators are recognized for excellence in teaching and pride themselves on innovation in the classroom. Students in every grade have access to unparalleled resources, and all members of the Lab community benefit by partnerships and connections with the University of Chicago. Families who choose Lab care deeply about curiosity, inquiry, and creativity.

No less than scholarship, Lab’s mission prioritizes honoring diversity and exhibiting kindness. We are committed to building and supporting a teaching and learning community where young people see aspects of their backgrounds and identities reflected around them, where they feel a deep sense of belonging, and where they discover and use their voices to full effect. Today, 53-59 percent of Lab’s student body are students of color. Families report speaking nearly 40 different languages in their homes. Approximately 60 percent of Lab families are also affiliated with the University of Chicago. Half of our families live in Hyde Park, and the rest come from across Chicago, the suburbs, and northwestern Indiana. Inclusion is a fundamental value at Lab, such that we celebrate every facet of community members’ identities, and even where we disagree, we emphasize respect, civility, and maintaining a spirit of community.

Lab seeks the finest employees to join our vibrant learning community. We employ people with a wide range of skills and training in many different disciplines, who have in common a love of learning and the wish to inspire that same love of learning in young people. We seek candidates for employment who thrive in an educational environment. We provide a great professional home for those committed to collaboration, ongoing personal and professional growth, and cultivating positive relationships. We strongly encourage applications from candidates of color, LGBTQ+ identified candidates, candidates from historically marginalized or underrepresented backgrounds, and candidates with a demonstrated commitment to a deepening diversity, equity, and inclusion practice. In turn, we strive to ensure that Lab is a joyful, welcoming, and inspiring place to work. Through our connection to the University, faculty, staff, and administrators enjoy benefits and opportunities that would be nearly impossible to match in any other environment.

Job Information​
 

Job Summary:

The High School Theater Director (Teacher) is responsible for educating and guiding students in the field of theater. This includes teaching students about the principles of acting, stagecraft, script analysis, theater history, and directing. The Theater Director should be able to create a safe and supportive learning environment that encourages students to explore their creativity and express themselves through theater.

The High School Theater Director (Teacher) runs classes as well as overseeing theater productions. This role will attend performances and rehearsals. The Director(Teacher) must also be able to manage their time effectively to meet deadlines and complete administrative tasks. The Theater Director (Teacher) is responsible for producing three productions over the course of the school year.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement lesson plans that align with best practice in theater education.
• Teach students about acting techniques, stagecraft, theater history, and directing.
• Organize and oversee auditions, rehearsals, and performances.
• Provide constructive feedback and evaluate student performances.
• Create a positive and inclusive classroom environment that promotes creativity, collaboration, and respect.
• Encourage students to participate in extracurricular theater activities, such as productions and competitions.
• Stay up-to-date with current theater trends and techniques, and continuously improve teaching methods and curriculum.
• Collaborate with other teachers, administrators, and theater professionals to enhance the theater program.
• Manage the theater budget and ensure that all equipment and materials are properly maintained and used.
• Provide timely communication with students and families.
• Collaborate with Middle School theater teachers as well the High School music department. 

Competencies:

• Quickly adapt to changing circumstances and flexible i