Elementary Art Teacher

Saint Mark’s school is an independent, Episcopal coeducational day school in Altadena, California. Founded in 1960, the school serves the needs of approximately 300 Preschool through Sixth grade students from diverse ethnic, racial, religious and economic backgrounds. The School’s mission is to develop the unique intellect and character of each student in a nurturing environment committed to academic excellence, respect for diversity, responsibility, and spiritual growth.

We are seeking a high energy, well organized art teacher who has proven success teaching art at the K-6 elementary school level. The elementary art teacher is responsible for providing art enrichment experiences for elementary students in Kindergarten through sixth grade, and helping students grow in their creative process, enjoyment and appreciation of art through a variety of planned lessons and art media such as paint, pencil, charcoal, pastels, clay, printmaking, fiber arts, and photography.

The ideal candidate will be responsible for developing in each student an interest in and the ability for creative expression in the visual arts, using skills and techniques of artistic expression consistent with school guidelines; developing aesthetic understanding and appreciation; discovering and developing the talents of students in the field of art; collaborating with classroom teachers, and organizing class time so that preparation and instruction can be accomplished within the allotted time. The successful candidate should demonstrate a growth mindset, flexibility, a commitment to ongoing professional development, strong communication skills, an ability to work as part of a team, and possess the skills to engage and inspire students.

Position Type/Status:

Elementary Art Teacher

Full time; Exempt status

Date Posted:

3/29/2018

Date Available:

 8/23/2018

Minimum Qualifications:

• Valid State Teacher Certification Granted by the Professional Teaching Standards Board
• Bachelor’s degree with a major or minor in visual arts
• Minimum of two years full-time teaching experience at the elementary school level

Preferred Qualifications:

• Responsive Classroom Training
• Experience with setting-up and operating a kiln

Responsibilities will include, but not be limited to:

• Acting in a manner corresponding to the requirements of the Employee Handbook of Saint Mark’s School.

• Exhibiting strong skills in cultural competency and a commitment to diversity and inclusivity.
• Teaching knowledge and skills in art, including drawing, painting, work with textiles, fabrics, and clay.
• Understanding the versatility of acrylic paint: dry brushing, staining, layering, and underpainting
• Understanding a variety of “masters” techniques
• A deep understanding of child development for students in grades k-6
• Knowledge of and ability to apply elements of design and modern principles of art
• An understanding of the fundamentals and different approaches to drawing media technique
• Instructing students in the proper care and use of tools and equipment
• Organizing storage areas and controlling use of materials, equipment and tools to prevent loss and to minimize time required for distribution and collection
• Planning and presenting art displays and exhibitions designed to exhibit student work for the school and the community
• Acting in a manner corresponding to the requirements of the Employee Handbook of Saint Mark’s School.
• Meeting with each elementary class on a regular basis (2-3 times per week) in accordance with the elementary art schedule.
• Giving art instruction to each elementary class in accordance with the Curriculum Guide, including but not limited to observation, art appreciation, art history, and individual expression.
• Representing Saint Mark’s School at appropriate curriculum-related meetings and conferences.
• Completing evaluations (grade/narrative) of elementary students.
• Fulfilling all applicable responsibilities listed in the Elementary Teacher Job Description and all other duties as assigned.

Salary: As per pay scale

Benefits: A full benefits package includes medical, dental and vision coverage and a TIAA/CREF retirement plan.

Submissions: Qualified candidates should submit a cover letter and current resume to Lower School Head Kelly Mancuso at kellym@saint-marks.org and Upper School Head Zanita Kelly at zanitaK@saint-marks.org . Job description available upon request.

Non-discrimination policy: Saint Mark’s School is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to a policy of non-discrimination in employment on any basis including race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin, the presence of mental, physical, or sensory disability, sexual orientation, or any other basis prohibited by federal or state law.

Physical Requirements: Jobs include some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling; some climbing and balancing; some stopping, kneeling, crouching and/or crawling; hearing, speaking, observing and significant fine finger dexterity. Specific abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Generally the job requires 15% sitting, 40% walking and 45% standing and the ability to lift or move up to 50 pounds. The job is performed under minimal temperature variations, a generally hazard free environment, and in a clean atmosphere.