What are the responsibilities and job description for the Middle School Art Teacher position at Caldwell County Schools?
Position Overview
We are seeking a passionate, creative, and student-centered Middle School Art Teacher to lead our Visual Arts program. In this role, you will be responsible for guiding 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade students through the world of artistic expression. Your primary goal is to bridge the gap between technical skill and personal voice, ensuring every student—regardless of their prior experience—feels safe enough to take creative risks.
Key Responsibilities
- Instructional Leadership: Plan and deliver engaging lessons for a 7-period day that align with the Kentucky Academic Standards (KAS) for Visual Arts, focusing on Creating, Performing/Presenting/Producing, Responding, and Connecting.
- Classroom Culture: Foster a "brave space" studio environment where students feel emotionally and physically safe to experiment, fail, and iterate on their work.
- Curriculum Development: Design a diverse curriculum that explores various media (drawing, painting, ceramics, digital art, etc.) and integrates art history and contemporary cultural contexts.
- Assessment: Utilize formative and summative assessments to track student growth, providing constructive feedback that encourages artistic persistence.
- Exhibition: Organize and curate student art displays within the school and local community to celebrate student achievement.
- Classroom Management: Maintain an organized, well-stocked, and safe studio environment, including the proper handling of tools and materials.
Qualifications
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Art Education or a related field.
- Certification: Valid Kentucky Teaching Certificate
- Knowledge: Deep understanding of the Kentucky Academic Standards and the ability to translate them into age-appropriate projects for middle schoolers.
- Soft Skills: Exceptional patience, a sense of humor (essential for middle school!), and a genuine empathy for the developmental needs of young adolescents.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to move around a classroom to provide 1-on-1 feedback.
- Ability to lift and organize art supplies (up to 25 lbs).
- Managing a 7-period schedule with standard breaks.
Why Join Us?
At CCMS, we believe that art is a core component of a well-rounded education. You will have the autonomy to shape your studio while being supported by a collaborative faculty dedicated to the success of Kentucky’s students.