Job Description

At Hopkins Public Schools, we believe that our strength lies in the diversity of our students, staff, and community. We are a proudly inclusive E-12 district serving approximately 7,200 students across the City of Hopkins and surrounding communities. Our district represents a rich mosaic of cultures, backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences; we value and celebrate that diversity in everything we do. As an academically rigorous and human-centered district, we are committed to fostering a welcoming environment where every student and staff member feels seen, heard, and valued. There is no "typical" Hopkins student, and we embrace this truth as a catalyst for innovation, growth, and equity in learning.

We seek educators and staff who are equity-minded, culturally responsive, and deeply committed to creating inclusive spaces where all learners can thrive.

We welcome candidates who are passionate about dismantling systemic barriers, advancing justice, and preparing students to become bold, collaborative, and compassionate global citizens. When you join Hopkins Public Schools, you are not just joining a district, you are becoming part of a community that honors difference, nurtures potential, and inspires remarkable achievement in every learner, from birth through graduation.

You are welcome at Hopkins. You belong at Hopkins.

SUMMARY:

Hopkins Public Schools is seeking an enthusiastic, organized, and student-centered Middle School Winter Dance Coach to support the Hopkins Dance Program. This position will primarily coach middle school student-athletes during the winter dance season while operating as an extension of the Hopkins High School Dance Program.

The Middle School Winter Dance Coach will work closely with the High School Head Dance Coach to provide a consistent program philosophy, develop fundamental dance skills, promote positive team culture, and prepare middle school dancers for future participation at the high school level.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Plan, organize, and conduct middle school winter dance practices and team activities.
• Teach age-appropriate dance fundamentals, technique, choreography, conditioning, flexibility, and performance skills.
• Develop student-athletes in both jazz and high kick techniques, when applicable to the program.
• Work collaboratively with the High School Head Dance Coach to align coaching philosophy, terminology, expectations, technique, and overall program development.
• Serve as a developmental connection between the middle school and high school dance programs.
• Prepare dancers for performances, competitions, exhibitions, and other scheduled team events.
• Create a positive, inclusive, and supportive environment that promotes confidence, teamwork, discipline, sportsmanship, and personal growth.
• Establish and communicate clear expectations regarding attendance, effort, behavior, academics, and team responsibilities.
• Provide appropriate instruction and feedback based on each dancer's experience and developmental level.
• Maintain regular communication with the High School Head Dance Coach regarding student development, program needs, scheduling, and team operations.
• Communicate appropriately and professionally with student-athletes, parents/guardians, school staff, and administrators.
• Assist with recruitment and retention of middle school dancers and encourage continued participation in the Hopkins High School Dance Program.
• Follow Minnesota State High School League requirements when applicable, along with Hopkins Public Schools policies and Athletics/Activities Department procedures.
• Represent Hopkins Public Schools and the Hopkins Dance Program professionally at all practices, competitions, performances, and school events.
• Perform other duties related to the dance program as assigned by the High School Head Dance Coach or Activities/Athletics Department.

Qualifications

Required/Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous dance experience in a competitive, school, studio, or performance setting.
• Previous coaching, teaching, or leadership experience with middle school-aged students preferred.
• Knowledge of dance fundamentals, technique, choreography, conditioning, and performance preparation.
• Knowledge of Minnesota high school dance team styles, including jazz and high kick, preferred.
• Ability to teach foundational skills in a safe and developmentally appropriate manner.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with the High School Head Dance Coach and other members of the Hopkins Dance coaching staff.
• Commitment to supporting the long-term development of the Hopkins Dance Program.
• Must meet all Hopkins Public Schools coaching requirements, background-check requirements, and required training or certifications.

Expectations

The Middle School Winter Dance Coach is expected to serve as a positive role model and promote the values of Hopkins Public Schools. The coach will prioritize student safety, development, sportsmanship, inclusion, academic success, and a positive student-athlete experience while helping build a strong and sustainable Hopkins Dance Program from the middle school through the varsity level.

No. of working days: 50 Days

Stipend Range: $2,433 - $2,788 DOE