Art Teacher, Jr High School

Art Teacher

Position Purpose
Under the general supervision of the School Principal, 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 the Utah State Board of Education (USBE) and Tooele County 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.
• Uses 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.
Note: The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities. It is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility.

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.
Note: Also see the Summary of Physical, Sensory and Environmental Requirements Needed to Perform Essential Functions for this position.

Qualifications Profile

• USBE License Level: Associate or Professional
• USBE License Area: Secondary Education (6-12)
• USBE Endorsement: Visual Art
• 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.

• Full time, 187 day, equal pay position
• Certified Salary Schedule
• Benefit Eligible at a full-time certified rate
• 8 sick leave days and 4 personal leave days per fiscal year