Art Teacher - School Year 2025 - 2026

North Lawndale College Prep

Art Teacher Job Description - 10 month position

Position Summary

Art Teachers at North Lawndale College Prep (NLCP) play a critical role in equipping students with the creative, technical, and analytical skills needed for artistic expression and critical thinking. They deliver rigorous, standards-aligned instruction that fosters artistic growth, visual literacy, and real-world application of the arts. The Art Department includes courses such as Visual Arts, Digital Media, and other creative electives, and the successful candidate may be asked to teach any content area within the department.

As part of NLCP's commitment to academic excellence and holistic development, Art Teachers design engaging, data-driven, standards-aligned lessons that meet all learner needs, incorporating differentiation and targeted support to ensure all students achieve artistic mastery. In addition to core instruction, all staff play an active role in the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) intervention process, collaborating to provide targeted support that enhances student learning and fosters strong student outcomes.

Beyond the classroom, Art Teachers contribute to curriculum development, participate in continuous professional learning, and collaborate with colleagues to refine instructional practices. Through high expectations, dynamic instruction, and a student-centered approach, they help cultivate a strong foundation in artistic expression and prepare scholars for future academic and career success.

Reports To:

Principal or designee

Position ResponsibilitiesPlan and Deliver Rigorous Instruction

• Design and implement engaging, standards-aligned art lessons that develop creative expression, artistic techniques, and visual literacy.
• Utilize a variety of instructional strategies, including studio-based learning, critique sessions, and digital media applications.
• Differentiate instruction to meet the diverse needs of learners, including students with disabilities and English language learners.
• Implement accommodations and modifications for students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), 504 Plans, and other learning needs, ensuring compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements.

Support Student Growth Through MTSS

• Actively participate in the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) by using data to identify students in need of additional support.
• Implement targeted interventions and collaborate with colleagues to adjust instruction based on student progress.
• Regularly assess and monitor student artistic development to provide timely feedback and adjust instructional strategies accordingly.

Promote College Readiness and Academic Achievement

• Maintain high artistic and academic expectations and foster a classroom environment that encourages creative problem-solving and innovation.
• Integrate real-world applications and interdisciplinary connections to help students understand the relevance of the arts.
• Prepare students for college entrance portfolios, art exhibitions, and post-secondary success through skill-building in visual communication and artistic critique.
• Lead an advisory as assigned to promote postsecondary aspirations and the social-emotional success of all students.

Experiential Learning and Community Engagement

• Incorporate opportunities for students to engage in collaborative art projects, exhibitions, and community-based artwork.
• Design student-centered projects that promote cultural awareness, historical art context, and interdisciplinary applications.
• Organize field trips, guest speakers, and real-world experiences to enhance student exposure to artistic careers and professional practices.

Behavior and Classroom Management

• Establish and maintain a structured, positive classroom environment that supports student engagement.
• Implement schoolwide behavior expectations and restorative practices.
• Ensure student safety by maintaining proper use of art materials, enforcing safety protocols, and supervising students in the studio environment.

Engage in Professional Growth and Collaboration

• Participate in ongoing professional development, instructional coaching, and data-driven planning sessions.
• Collaborate with colleagues to develop and refine curriculum, assessments, and best teaching practices.
• Contribute to a culture of reflective practice by seeking feedback and continuously improving instructional methods.

Parental and Community Engagement

• Maintain open and culturally responsive communication with parents and guardians regarding student progress.
• Provide families with resources and guidance to support student artistic development at home.
• Participate in parent-teacher conferences to discuss student progress, strengths, and areas for growth.

Contribute to the School Community and Culture

• Build positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues to create a strong classroom and school culture.
• Work collaboratively with the Culture and Peace team to promote a restorative and responsive school environment.
• Teach special topic seminars that allow for creative and interdisciplinary approaches to art and design.
• Uphold NLCP's mission and values by modeling NLCP's 5Ts: timely, transparent, team-oriented, trustworthy, and trauma-informed.
• Coordinate student activities such as art showcases, mural projects, and external learning opportunities.

Position Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Art Education, Fine Arts, Digital Media, or a relevant field required; Master's preferred.
• Valid Illinois Professional Educator's License required (or out-of-state equivalent with eligibility for license reciprocity).
• Strong content knowledge and enthusiasm for visual arts, particularly in studio practices, digital media, and art history.

Desired Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Commitment to improving the academic and personal growth of students through the arts.
• Proven track record of driving student engagement and achievement in visual arts coursework.
• Strong instructional skills, differentiation techniques, and data-driven decision-making.
• Maintains a strengths-based approach, demonstrating unwavering belief in students' potential and practicing boundless compassion.
• Dedicated to continuous improvement and refining instructional practices.
• Passionate about urban education and committed to advancing equitable educational opportunities for historically marginalized students.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skillsGood level of proficiency in Google Suite (Docs, Sheets, Slides, Forms, and Drive) and general computer applications

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Regularly required to stand, walk, sit, and interact with students and staff.
• Occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds, including art supplies and classroom materials.
• Frequent handling of art tools, paints, and digital media equipment.
• The noise level in the work environment can be moderate to loud, especially during collaborative studio work and schoolwide exhibitions.
• Exposure to various art materials, including paints, adhesives, and other crafting supplies.

Conditions of Employment

• Must be authorized to work in the U.S.
• Compliance with all board policies, ISBE requirements, and relevant educational laws and regulations.