Elementary and Middle School Art Teacher

About the position

The Kent Center School is seeking a passionate and creative K-8 Art Teacher to join our team. This position is ideal for an educator who embraces the Teaching for Artistic Behavior (TAB) philosophy, fostering student independence, choice, and artistic exploration. The Art Teacher will create a student-centered learning environment where children develop artistic skills, problem-solving abilities, and creative confidence through hands-on experiences in a choice-based setting. The ideal candidate is an advocate for the arts, skilled in a variety of media, and committed to fostering a love of artistic expression in students of all ages and abilities. This role requires strong classroom management, flexibility, and an understanding of child development in the arts.

Responsibilities

• Develop students' artistic skills, knowledge, appreciation, aesthetics, literacy, self-expression, 21st-century skills, and Habits of Mind.
• Implement a TAB-based curriculum that supports student-driven learning and creative exploration.
• Design and maintain a dynamic, choice-based studio environment where students engage in self-directed artistic practice.
• Provide instruction and guidance in a variety of artistic media, techniques, and concepts.
• Encourage critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving through the artistic process.
• Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners.
• Collaborate with school staff and administration to integrate art across disciplines.
• Organize student artwork for exhibitions, school events, and community showcases.
• Maintain an organized, safe, and well-stocked art studio.
• Foster a positive and inclusive classroom culture that celebrates artistic expression and student voice.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Art Education, or a related field from an accredited institution.
• Certification: A valid Connecticut teaching certification with an endorsement in Art, Pre-K-12) #042.
• Experience: Experience teaching Art at the elementary or middle school level.
• Background Check: Complete a thorough background check, including fingerprinting, and follow district policies and state regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of our students.
• Collaboration & Communication: Strong teamwork and communication skills to work effectively with colleagues, students, and families.

Benefits

• Per the Kent Education Association Collective Bargaining Agreement.