Visual Arts Teacher at Howard University Public Charter Middle School – Washington, District of Columbia

Position Summary
The Visual Arts Teacher at Howard University Middle School of Mathematics and Science is responsible for developing in each student an interest in and the ability for creative expression through visual art. The teacher will use skills and techniques of artistic expression consistent with HUMSS guidelines and IB MYP visual arts standards; foster aesthetic understanding and appreciation; and discover and develop the artistic talents of students. In alignment with the school's STEM mission, the Visual Arts Teacher will draw meaningful connections between art, mathematics, science, and design thinking, helping students recognize the integral role of visual expression in a well-rounded intellectual life.

Duties and Responsibilities
Curriculum and Instruction
• Plan and deliver standards-aligned visual arts instruction in drawing, painting, mixed media, printmaking, lettering, and art history, with integration of MYP visual arts unit planners where applicable.
• Teach and model a variety of artistic techniques including dry brushing, staining, layering, underpainting, and monoprinting using acrylic and other media.
• Instruct students in the elements of design and modern principles of art, as well as the fundamentals of various drawing media and approaches.
• Develop student understanding of 'masters' techniques across art historical periods and cultural contexts, with an emphasis on diverse global perspectives.
• Provide instruction that helps students develop aesthetic concepts, make qualitative judgments about art, and articulate their creative process through written and verbal reflection.
• Incorporate connections to mathematics (proportion, geometry, pattern, spatial reasoning) and science (light, color theory, materials science) to reinforce HUMSS's interdisciplinary mission.
• Demonstrate artistic techniques through direct modeling and encourage experimentation and inquiry as core components of the creative process.

Differentiation and Student Support
• Provide individual and small-group instruction to adapt the curriculum to the needs of students with varying intellectual and artistic abilities.
• Accommodate diverse learning styles and support students through scaffolded, project-based, and inquiry-driven instructional activities.
• Instruct students in the proper care and use of art tools, equipment, and materials to ensure safety and responsible stewardship of school resources.

Assessment and Record-Keeping
• Evaluate each student's performance, growth in artistic skills, and development of aesthetic understanding; prepare and communicate progress reports to students and families.
• Maintain accurate inventory records of art materials, supplies, and equipment.
• Organize storage areas and manage materials to minimize loss, ensure equitable access, and streamline classroom routines.

Exhibitions and Community Engagement
• Plan, curate, and present student art displays and exhibitions for the school and broader community, including HUMSS events, family showcases, and local venues.
• Coordinate with school administration and community partners to sponsor or host outside exhibitions that enrich students' exposure to professional art worlds.
• Sponsor and support participation in an extended-day art club or similar extracurricular program to deepen student engagement in visual arts.

Professional Responsibilities
• Communicate regularly with parents, guardians, and school counselors regarding student progress in visual arts.
• Participate actively in school-wide curriculum development, professional learning communities, and other developmental programs.
• Maintain professional competence through in-service education, self-selected professional growth activities, and participation in relevant arts education networks.
• Perform any other duties as assigned by Administration.

Minimum Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts, Art Education, or a closely related field required.
• Teaching experience preferred; demonstrated ability to work effectively with middle school-aged students.
• Knowledge of and demonstrated skill in a broad range of visual arts media and techniques.
• Familiarity with arts integration approaches that connect visual arts to mathematics, science, and interdisciplinary learning.
• Strong classroom management and organizational skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; ability to build relationships with students, families, and colleagues.
• Experience with or willingness to learn the MYP Visual Arts framework is a plus.