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Volunteer

How to Become a Volunteer Teacher

Sitar Arts Center volunteer faculty should have a deep appreciation for the arts with at least three years of educational training or professional experience in their artistic field, have a strong desire to share that experience with children, and have a strong commitment to diversity and community.

Volunteer teachers commit approximately one hour per week to teaching each semester during afterschool hours (between 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM) or on Saturday mornings (between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM). Semesters follow the DC Public School schedule and run for between 14 and 16 weeks.

Those new to teaching or new to working with children are welcomed at Sitar Arts Center, as it is a learning place for all. New teachers have many options which include co-teaching and assistant teaching, as well as being the lead instructor in a class. New teachers have the opportunity to attend Sitar teacher workshops and can also request to be matched with a more experienced teacher for advice on teaching issues and curriculum development.

To apply to become a volunteer, you must submit a completed application form, including the name, address and phone numbers of three references to Rob Smith at rob@sitarartscenter.org.

Submit the application by the following deadlines:

Spring Semester: November 15
Summer Semester: April 15
Fall Semester: July 15

If the deadline has passed, applications will then be accepted on a rolling basis as needed.

Volunteer Application Form

Current Volunteer Faculty Positions

Requirements for Volunteers

To become a volunteer, you must:

  • Complete an Audition/Portfolio Review (one-time).
  • Authorize Sitar to do a background check (one-time). Click here for the authorization form.
  • Schedule an interview with a Sitar staff member (one-time).
  • Get a TB test (must renew every two years). Click here to find out how to get a TB test.
  • Attend an volunteer training (annually).
  • Submit a course description and syllabus (each semester).

For more information about volunteering, contact Rob Smith at rob@sitarartscenter.org or call (202) 797-2145, ext. 105.