Theater Instructor

Grounded in Taft’s commitment to academic excellence and whole-person growth, our theater program challenges students to think critically, communicate boldly, and build empathy through rehearsal and performance. We invite an inspiring educator and passionate artist to bring their energy to our classrooms, stage, and residential community. 

The Taft School seeks a full-time teacher in Theater Arts for an August 2027 start date. Specific assignments comprise four class sections of courses such as Acting and Public Speaking, as well as directorship of at least one theatrical production per year. Taft seeks a dynamic, innovative teacher who will be an active participant in our academic, co-curricular, and residential programs. A Bachelor’s degree plus a minimum of three years of teaching experience is preferred. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, and the names of three references to the online application through ADP.

Primary Faculty Responsibilities

• Teaching four class periods (blocks) each semester. Each class meets three times a workweek--Monday through Saturday-- in a rotating block schedule. Class blocks are 70 minutes each. Student enrollments, composition, and design of class periods are department or academic area-specific; 

• Grading student assignments and assessments promptly, within approximately one week of submission, and providing extra help sessions in accordance with the school’s philosophy. 

• Writing required class comments on individualized student performance three times during the academic year;

• Attending weekly faculty and department meetings; student round table meetings as needed; and other meetings as may be required by the head of school, assistant head of school for faculty and academics, dean of faculty, department head, or other senior administrator.

• Evening duty– either dormitory duty or equivalent supervisory duty–that consists of a 4.5-hour shift between approximately 7:00 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. once a week; a 5-hour weekend duty shift between approximately 7:00 p.m. and 12:00 a.m. once a month; and periodic overnight duty for faculty residing in dormitory housing or an afternoon duty shift for faculty assigned to supervisory duty. 

• Serving as an advisor to a group of students, attending weekly advisory community lunches, and writing individualized advisor letters at the end of each semester;

• Attending weekly seated dinners during fall and spring;

• Responsible for the care and well-being of students in a residential boarding school. Provide a safe and secure experience for all students.

• Some summer work in preparation for the upcoming academic year program. 

• Drive students as part of afternoon program (co-curricular) activities and as needed for student appointments, activities, and emergency medical attention. This requires obtaining the A Endorsement on your CT Driver’s License. 

• Additional responsibilities and duties as directed by the head of school. 

Theater Arts Responsibilities

• Two seasons of involvement in Taft’s afternoon theater program productions, including directorship of at least one show. 

• Partner with performing arts faculty on joint programs and department-wide initiatives.

• Share theater arts updates across school channels to keep students, staff, parents, and the broader Taft community informed and engaged.

• Serve as faculty advisor for Taft’s Masque and Dagger, and other theater arts clubs or independent student work in the theater arts. 

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred.

• Minimum of three years of relevant experience; independent school experience preferred.

• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and Taft’s mission and values.

• Willingness to work evenings and weekends. 

• Authorized to work in the United States of America and have a valid driver’s license.  

• Professional experience is preferred in addition to experience leading adults. 

• Demonstrated interest in—and potential for—assuming leadership of the Arts Department as Department Chair in future years.

Portrait of an Educator Alignment:

• Strive for Wisdom – Continuously seek feedback, reflection, and collaboration to deepen their knowledge and enhance practice.

• Find Joy in Purpose – Draw inspiration from meaningful connections with students, colleagues, and the school’s mission.

• Nurture Relationships – Foster empathy, inclusion, and a sense of belonging through authentic, caring relationships.

• Build Resilience – Approach challenges with adaptability, creativity, and balance between personal and professional well-being.

• Practice Humility – Embrace feedback, acknowledge limitations, and view learning as a lifelong process.

• Pursue Excellence – Nurture all dimensions of human flourishing by upholding high standards, seeking out and providing mentorship, and 

• striving for improvement.

• Live with Honor – Act with integrity, accountability, and a commitment to the community’s shared values.

Compensation and Benefits

The anticipated salary range for this full-time, exempt position is $46,500-$80,000 annually. The actual starting salary will be determined based on relevant experience, qualifications, skills, and other appropriate considerations.

Benefits: Eligible employees may receive a comprehensive benefits package that may include:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance

• Retirement plan contributions

• Life and disability insurance

• Paid vacation and holidays

• Professional development support

• On-campus housing (or a housing stipend) 

• Tuition assistance and educational benefits, where applicable

• Use of school facilities, including the grounds, athletics center, and dining hall

Interview Timeline:

• November/December: First and second round of interviews

• January: Finalist Campus Visits

• February: Appointment anticipated

• August 01, 2027: Start date

Equal Employment Opportunity

The Taft School is committed to equal employment opportunity and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religious creed, age, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, marital status, national origin, ancestry, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, veteran status, status as a victim of domestic violence, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal or Connecticut law.