Student Assistant Program
At Clarion Center for the Arts, we believe the arts do more than teach steps, songs, or scene work—they shape confident, capable young people who are ready to lead.
That’s exactly why we created our Student Assistant Program—a hands-on leadership experience designed to help students grow not just as performers, but as communicators, role models, and future professionals.
What Is the Student Assistant Program?
Our Student Assistant Program gives students the opportunity to step into a leadership role by working alongside our instructors, directors, and administrative team.
Depending on their interests, students may:
Assist in dance classes with instructors
Support musical theatre rehearsals
Help behind the scenes in the office
Pitch in at birthday parties, workshops, and special events
This isn’t just “helping out”—it’s real-world experience in responsibility, teamwork, and leadership.
Students in this program are learning:
How to lead and communicate with younger students
How classes are planned and executed
What it takes to run a studio—from both the stage and the office
Who Is This Program For?
We’re looking for students who are ready to grow.
Ideal candidates are:
Confident (or ready to become confident!)
Willing to take initiative
Comfortable speaking in front of others—including adults
Excited to be role models for younger students
Eligibility Requirements:
6th Grade+– Dance Teacher Assistant or Office Assistant
10th Grade+– Musical Assistant
Must be currently enrolled as a student at Clarion Center for the Arts
More Than a Role—It’s a Leadership Pipeline
One of the most unique aspects of our program is that it’s not just a one-time experience—it’s a growth track.
Students move through a leadership pipeline:
⭐ Student Assistant
Learn the foundations by assisting in classes and observing instructors firsthand.
⭐ Student Apprentice
(After 2+ years and entering 9th grade)
Take on more responsibility, including stepping in when needed.
⭐ Junior Faculty
(After 2+ years apprenticing and entering 11th grade)
A paid position where students may teach their own classes or continue assisting at a higher level.
By the time students reach working age, they have a resume full of real leadership experience—something that truly sets them apart.
Leadership That Lasts a Lifetime
This program is about so much more than the studio.
The skills students gain—responsibility, communication, initiative, professionalism—carry into:
First jobs
College applications
Future careers (whether in the arts, business, or beyond)
We’re passionate about raising up the next generation of leaders, teachers, and even entrepreneurs.
Program Perks
Students in our leadership program also enjoy:
Leadership training throughout the year
Opportunities to represent the studio at events
Recital recognition
An end-of-season celebration
And most importantly…confidence that lasts a lifetime
Training & Special Events
Throughout the year, we offer optional (but highly encouraged!) training and team-building opportunities:
Kickoff – early September
Training Day – middle of November
Costume Hanging – early January
Training Day – middle of March
End-of-Season Party – early May
These events are designed to build community, strengthen leadership skills, and make the experience even more fun and meaningful.
Why Parents Love This Program
Parents often tell us this is one of the most valuable things their child does all year.
Why?
Because it helps students:
Step out of their comfort zone
Build confidence in speaking and leading
Learn responsibility in a safe, supportive environment
Feel seen, needed, and valued
And perhaps most importantly… it gives them a place where they belong and matter.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If your child is ready to grow in confidence, leadership, and responsibility, the Student Assistant Program might be the perfect next step.
This is the CCA way—developing not just great performers, but strong, capable young people who are ready for whatever comes next.
👉 Applications are now open—we can’t wait to see your student step into leadership!
