Lower School Art Teacher
Philadelphia, PA - USA
Job Summary
Position Purpose:
Creates a dynamic and engaging studio environment that inspires Lower School students to explore the possibilities of visual art through curiosity experimentation and creative expression. Develops a thoughtful curriculum that nurtures artistic skills creative thinking collaboration and confidence while aligning with curricular goals and the developmental needs of students in grades PK4. Fosters a joyful and inclusive classroom community where students develop as artists creative problem solvers and engaged members of the school community. The ideal candidate is a passionate Arts advocate who supports the Lower School faculty and students in advancing the schools mission and values through the Arts. This position starts August 28 2026.
I. Essential Functions:
- Utilizes a studio-based approach to teach a diverse range of media including drawing painting ceramics fiber art mixed media 3D construction digital art animation photography and other age-appropriate processes to students in grades PK4.
- Creates developmentally appropriate learning experiences that build foundational artistic skills while encouraging experimentation creative risk-taking problem solving reflection and individual expression.
- Creates an inclusive classroom community where students feel valued supported and empowered to take artistic risks share their ideas and develop as confident creative learners while integrating diverse artists voices and perspectives into the curriculum.
- Manages student behavior through effective classroom management techniques that support a productive studio environment.
- Collaborates with Lower School classroom teachers and colleagues to create meaningful interdisciplinary connections and support student learning.
- Develops and adapts curriculum and instruction to meet the developmental needs interests and learning styles of students.
- Actively evaluates new tools materials and methods for classroom use.
- Maintains a safe organized and well-equipped studio environment including oversight of materials tools equipment inventory supplies and appropriate safety protocols.
- Creates opportunities to celebrate and share student artwork throughout the school year through campus displays the annual winter art display and the All-School Art Show.
- Collaborates with the Arts Faculty on school-wide arts initiatives exhibitions and opportunities for community engagement.
- Evaluates student growth through multiple measures including observation discussion reflection and student work.
- Communicates regularly with parents/guardians classroom teachers counselors and administrators to support students academic social-emotional and creative growth.
- Attends grade-level team meetings faculty meetings department and program meetings open houses Barbara Crawford Gallery openings conferences and school events as required.
- Performs additional faculty duties as assigned including lunch/snack supervision recess monitoring dismissal duties and internal classroom coverage for colleagues.
- Completes bi-annual narrative reports that communicate student growth engagement and progress in the Arts.
II. Professional Conduct
- Builds and maintains collaborative working relationships with colleagues and administration.
- Contributes positively to the culture and community of the Lower School and Arts Department.
- Demonstrates a commitment to professional growth maintaining an active artistic practice and continued learning.
III. Any Other Duties Assigned by Head of Lower School
Qualifications
- At a minimum a Bachelors Degree in Visual Arts.
- Proven ability as an artist and demonstrated ability in a variety of media.
- Experience teaching elementary-aged students in a studio-based visual arts environment preferred.
- Demonstrated understanding of child development and the ability to create engaging age-appropriate learning experiences for students in grades PK4.
- Knowledge of studio-based art classroom methods applicable safety procedures in the Art studio and the use and maintenance of kiln and art classroom tools.
- Comfort with a team-based work structure; works well collaboratively and demonstrates flexibility.
- Comfort integrating technology and digital tools to enhance teaching and learning.
- Ability to foster creativity and serve as an advocate for the Arts.
- Demonstrated cultural competency with an understanding of and enthusiasm for issues of diversity inclusivity and multiculturalism and a commitment to building healthy relationships within a diverse community.
- Outstanding planning and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Demonstrated leadership and facilitative skills.
Physical Requirements and Work Environment
- Be able to occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.
- Regularly use close and distance vision.
- Frequently stand and talk or hear and sometimes walk and sit.
- Turn bend reach and occasionally climb.
- Work in a traditional climate-controlled classroom environment with moderate noise level.
Application Procedures
To be considered candidates must upload a cover letter resume statement of educational philosophy and information for three professional references through our online platform.
Springside Chestnut Hill Academy is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
The School is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities during the application process and in employment as required by law.
Required Experience:
IC
About Company
Looking for a private day school in Philly? Visit Springside Chestnut Hill Academy, a private preschool to grade 12 school located in Chestnut Hill, PA.