Manager, Arts Education and Community Programs

Step Afrika! is the world’s leading authority on the art form of stepping—a unique percussive dance style that integrates African and African American cultural traditions. Headquartered in Washington, DC, Step Afrika! has garnered national and international acclaim for its innovative performances, arts education programs, and cultural diplomacy across the globe.

With a vision to expand its touring footprint, develop new artistic works, and deepen its community engagement through innovative educational initiatives, the organization is poised for significant growth. The Manager, Arts Education and Community Programs will play a pivotal role in realizing this vision by leading efforts to enhance arts education programming, foster meaningful partnerships, and engage diverse communities in Step Afrika!’s mission.

Job Summary

The Manager of Arts Education and Community Programs is responsible for planning, executing, and managing all arts education and community engagement initiatives. This includes developing and implementing curricula, overseeing program execution, and cultivating partnerships with schools, community organizations, and government agencies. The Manager will also recruit and train teaching artists and ensure that Step Afrika!’s programs maintain high artistic and educational standards. The Manager reports directly to the Executive Producer and works closely with Step Afrika!’s Executive Director, Artistic Director, and Development Director. This role serves as a key advocate and ambassador for Step Afrika!’s arts education and community programs.

Key Responsibilities

• Program Development and Management: Design, implement, and oversee arts education programs, including school residencies, workshops, master classes, and our award-winning summer camp (i.e. Summer Steps), ensuring alignment with Step Afrika!’s mission and educational goals.
• Curriculum Design: Develop comprehensive curricula and educational materials that incorporate the history and techniques of stepping, ensuring programs meet local public and charter school standards.
• Partnership Building: Cultivate and maintain strong partnerships with schools, community organizations, and government agencies to expand the reach and impact of Step Afrika!’s programs.
• Teaching Artist Recruitment and Supervision: Recruit, train, and manage a team of teaching artists, providing ongoing support and feedback to ensure high-quality instruction.
• Program Implementation: Coordinate logistics for program delivery, including scheduling, site visits, and culminating events. Ensure timely and efficient execution of all programs.
• Evaluation and Reporting: Develop and implement evaluation tools to assess program effectiveness. Compile and submit reports to funders and stakeholders and contribute to the organization’s annual report.
• Budget Management: Manage program budgets, track expenses, and collaborate with the Development Director on grant proposals and reporting.
• Community Outreach: Lead community engagement efforts, representing Step Afrika! at events, conferences, and forums to advocate for the arts and promote the organization’s programs.

Key Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in arts administration, education, or a related field (required); master’s degree preferred.
• Strong understanding of arts education, community engagement, and the role of arts in youth development.
• Familiarity with stepping as a dance form is highly desirable.
• Proven experience in program management, curriculum development, and staff supervision.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and time management skills.
• Ability to build and maintain partnerships with diverse stakeholders, including educators, artists, and community leaders.
• Strong budgeting and financial management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Google Workspace.
• Knowledge of the Washington, D.C. community and local schools is preferred.
• Availability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as needed.