Classroom Teacher (2026-2027)

Position Overview

The Academy for Integrated Arts (AFIA) seeks a reflective elementary teacher who believes learning should be engaging meaningful and joyful. This teacher will design rich student-centered learning experiences where inquiry creativity and the arts deepen students understanding of core academic content. The ideal candidate is committed to helping every child thrive academically and socially and believes that strong relationships curiosity and high expectations are essential to student success.

About the Academy for Integrated Arts

The Academy for Integrated Arts (AFIA) is an innovative public charter school in Kansas City where the arts are intentionally integrated into the core curriculum as a meaningful part of daily learning. At AFIA the arts serve as a catalyst for curiosity creativity academic achievement and student confidence.

Instruction is grounded in constructivist philosophy and developmentally appropriate practice. Students learn through inquiry project-based experiences and interdisciplinary learning that promotes deep thinking and authentic engagement. AFIA is a collaborative learning community where teachers are reflective practitioners leaders and active participants in ongoing professional learning.

Learn more by watching this video ( or visit our website at

Why Teachers Choose AFIA

Teachers at AFIA value:

• A collaborative and supportive staff culture
• Strong instructional coaching and job-embedded professional development
• Opportunities for teacher leadership and innovation
• A school community that values creativity inquiry and student voice
• The opportunity to integrate the arts into meaningful academic learning

AFIA Teachers

Teachers at AFIA:

• Demonstrate a commitment to serving students who have been historically underserved
• Believe in the power of student-centered learning to transform students lives
• Create inclusive classrooms where all students and families feel a strong sense of belonging
• Implement inquiry-based and constructivist instructional practices
• Value families as essential partners in student success
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues and engage in continuous professional growth
  

Essential Responsibilities

The elementary classroom teacher will:

• Plan and deliver engaging student-centered instruction
• Design interdisciplinary and project-based learning experiences that integrate the arts and core content
• Facilitate a classroom environment where students think deeply set goals and take ownership of their learning
• Use assessments and data to inform instruction and support student growth
• Build a positive classroom community and support student behavior effectively
• Maintain strong communication and relationships with students and families
• Provide timely feedback on student learning and development
• Collaborate with colleagues art/music teachers and community partners to integrate the arts
• Participate actively in professional learning reflection and coaching
  

What Success Looks Like in This Role

In this role a successful AFIA teacher:

• Creates a joyful engaging classroom where students actively think question and collaborate
• Designs project learning experiences that integrate the arts and academic content
• Builds strong relationships with students and families that support student growth and well-being
• Uses student data and reflection to continually strengthen instruction
• Collaborates with colleagues to improve teaching practice and support all learners
• Contributes to a positive reflective school culture focused on continuous learning

Qualifications

• Bachelors degree required
• Missouri certification in Elementary Education or Early Childhood Education or eligibility to obtain certification
• Strong communication and collaboration skills
• Commitment to equity inclusion and culturally responsive teaching

Preferred Experience

• Experience with teaching through projects inquiry-based instruction or constructivist teaching
• Experience integrating the arts into academic instruction
• Experience working in diverse or urban school communities
• Familiarity with restorative practices or responsive classroom approaches

Salary and Benefits

• Minimum starting salary for certified first-year teachers: $50500
• Medical benefits
• Kansas City Public School Retirement System (KCPSRS) participation
• Ongoing job-embedded professional development and coaching
• Opportunities for collaboration and teacher leadership
• Professional learning in arts integration and interdisciplinary teaching

Start Date: August 1 2026

Application Process

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

To apply submit:

• Resume
• Brief cover letter
• Three professional references
  

Questions about the position may be directed to: Tricia DeGraff Executive Director ()

Required Experience:

Junior IC