What are the responsibilities and job description for the Upper School Art Teacher position at Maclay School?
Art Teacher
Full Time, 10 Months
Start Date: August 2026
Maclay School seeks a passionate and student-centered visual arts educator to join our middle and upper school faculty. The ideal candidate is both a skilled practicing artist and an inspiring teacher who believes the arts are essential to developing creative thinkers, confident communicators, and thoughtful observers of the world.
Our art teachers create studio environments where students feel safe to experiment, take creative risks, and develop their own artistic voice. They blend strong technical instruction with opportunities for exploration, helping students build both artistic skill and habits of mind such as curiosity, perseverance, and critical thinking. Successful candidates demonstrate a deep appreciation for the history and contemporary practice of art while helping students see the arts as a powerful form of expression and connection.
At Maclay, visual arts are an important part of a well-rounded education. Our teachers collaborate across disciplines, celebrate student work through exhibitions and public showcases, and foster a culture that values creativity, craftsmanship, and originality.
Who You Are
-
You are a passionate advocate for the visual arts and believe that every student has creative potential. You bring both technical expertise and a flexible, student-centered approach to the studio, balancing structured skill-building with opportunities for experimentation and personal expression.
-
You create a classroom environment that is organized, supportive, and inspiring. Students feel encouraged to take creative risks because they know they are guided by a thoughtful mentor who values their ideas and unique perspectives.
-
You also believe that strong art instruction connects students to a broader artistic community. You enjoy collaborating with colleagues, connecting students to contemporary artists and cultural organizations, and showcasing student work through exhibitions that celebrate the creative process and build confidence.
-
At heart, you are a lifelong learner who continues to explore new techniques, artists, and ideas in order to grow both as an educator and as an artist.
Qualifications
-
Bachelor’s degree in Art, Art Education, or a related field required (Master’s degree preferred)
-
Experience teaching visual arts at the middle or high school level
-
Strong studio background and technical proficiency in one or more visual media
-
Demonstrated ability to build a positive, student-centered classroom environment
-
Excellent communication, collaboration, and organizational skills
-
Commitment to professional growth and lifelong learning
Physical Requirements and ADA Statement
This position requires regular movement between classrooms and campus spaces, including navigating indoor and outdoor environments and participating in studio-based instruction. The role also requires the ability to sit, stand, walk, communicate clearly, operate standard classroom and technology equipment, and occasionally lift or move art supplies and materials weighing up to 20–30 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.