Middle School Art Teacher

Art Teacher

Position Purpose: To develop students' interest, abilities, talents and skills for artistic expression and creativity in the visual arts, as well as aesthetic understanding and appreciation by implementing district approved curriculum; documenting teaching and student progress/activities/outcomes; developing lesson plans; modeling the necessary skills to performing assigned tasks; providing a safe and optimal learning environment; and providing feedback to students, parents and administration regarding student progress, expectations, goals, etc.

Essential Functions:

• Develops and administers school art curriculum consistent with school district goals and objectives.
• Develops lesson plans and instructional materials and translates lesson plans into learning experiences so as to best utilize the available time for art instruction.
• Teaches knowledge and skills in art, including crafts, drawing, painting, lettering, design, commercial art, art history, and three-dimensional art to secondary pupils, following the course of study adopted by the Board of Education, and other appropriate learning activities.
• Provides instruction by which pupils develop aesthetic concepts and appreciation and the ability to make qualitative judgments about art, art appreciation and what constitutes art.
• Conducts ongoing assessment of student skills and learning in artistic techniques and expression, and modifies instructional methods to fit individual student's needs, including students with special needs; conducts individual and small group instruction as needed.
• Demonstrates techniques in activities such as drawing, painting, and modeling, using standard and teacher-prepared instructional aids.
• Develops instructional plans and organizes class time to provide a balanced program of instruction, demonstration, and working time.
• Instructs pupils in proper care and use of tools and equipment used in art classes.
• Evaluates each pupil's performance and growth in knowledge and aesthetic understandings, and prepares progress reports.
• Plans and presents art displays and exhibitions designed to exhibit pupils' work for the school and the community. May sponsor exhibits from outside.
• Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops or professional meetings, or by conducting research.
• Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping, grading, and reporting for all student activities, achievement and attendance as required by district procedures and applicable laws.
• Encourages parental involvement in students' education and ensures effective communication with students and parents.
• Ensures that student conduct conforms to the school's standards and school district policies, and establishes and maintains standards of pupil behavior needed to achieve a functional learning atmosphere in the classroom.
• Coordinates with other school professional staff members, especially within grade level, and participates in faculty meetings and committees.
• Selects and requisitions appropriate books, art materials, instructional aids and other supplies and equipment and maintains inventory records.

Additional Duties: Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent.

Equipment Use: Standard office equipment such as; personal computers, printer, copy and fax machines, and telephone.

Travel Requirements: Travels to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.

Work Schedule: Standard teacher work schedule as set forth in the Teachers' Unit Contract.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of current art instructional teaching methods and educational pedagogy, as well as differentiates instruction based upon student learning styles.
• Knowledge of art curriculum and concepts.
• Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students.
• Ability to use computer network system and software applications as needed.
• Ability to organize and coordinate work.
• Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents.
• Ability to engage in self-evaluation with regard to performance and professional growth.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.

Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazards: Work in standard office and school building environments.

Certification/License: [State] State Certification as an Art Teacher or as required for position. Motor Vehicle Operator's License or ability to provide own transportation.

Education: Bachelors from an accredited college or university in education discipline applicable to teaching assignment. Masters Degree preferred.

Experience: Successful prior teaching experience for the appropriate grade level and/or subject is a plus.

FLSA Status: Exempt