The American Dream Charter School

Visual Arts Teacher

Our Mission

The American Dream Charter School serves grades 6-12 in the Mott Haven section of the Bronx, targeting English language learners and immigrant students. The mission of the American Dream School is to develop academic excellence in both Spanish and English, preparing students to excel in college and become leaders in their communities.

Summary of Role

The American Dream Charter School is seeking a creative, motivated, and engaging bilingual (Spanish/English) Middle School Visual Arts Teacher who is passionate about arts education and committed to supporting English Language Learners in a dual-language learning environment.

The ideal candidate will inspire students to explore their creativity, develop artistic skills, and express themselves through a variety of visual art forms. The teacher will design and implement an engaging, standards-aligned visual arts curriculum that encourages experimentation, critical thinking, cultural appreciation, and artistic expression.

As a dual-language school, ADS seeks educators who embrace bilingualism and biliteracy and can deliver meaningful instruction in both Spanish and English while supporting students' academic, linguistic, and creative development.

Responsibilities

Curriculum Development and Instruction

• Design and implement a comprehensive visual arts curriculum aligned with the New York State Learning Standards for the Arts.
• Deliver engaging, age-appropriate instruction in a variety of artistic techniques and media, including drawing, painting, sculpture, and mixed media.
• Develop meaningful, project-based learning experiences that encourage creativity, experimentation, and critical thinking.
• Incorporate art history, cultural traditions, and contemporary artistic practices into classroom instruction.
• Integrate visual arts with other academic disciplines through interdisciplinary projects and collaboration with colleagues.
• Differentiate instruction to accommodate diverse learning styles, language proficiency levels, and individual student needs.
• Support the development of students' artistic vocabulary, communication skills, and creative expression in both Spanish and English.

Student Assessment and Development

• Develop and implement assessments that measure students' artistic growth, technical skills, creativity, and understanding of visual arts concepts.
• Maintain accurate records of student progress and provide timely, constructive feedback.
• Encourage students to reflect on their creative processes and develop portfolios showcasing their artistic development.
• Provide individualized support and appropriate accommodations for students with disabilities and English Language Learners, including implementation of applicable IEPs and 504 Plans.
• Communicate regularly with families regarding student progress and participate in parent-teacher conferences.

Classroom Management and Learning Environment

• Establish and maintain a positive, inclusive, and well-organized classroom environment that encourages creativity, collaboration, and mutual respect.
• Uphold ADS core values, behavioral expectations, and school policies.
• Teach and reinforce the safe and responsible use of art materials, tools, and equipment.
• Maintain an organized, welcoming, and visually engaging classroom that celebrates student creativity and achievement.
• Manage classroom materials and supplies responsibly.

Collaboration and School Community

• Collaborate with teachers and school leadership to develop interdisciplinary learning opportunities and support school-wide academic goals.
• Participate in faculty meetings, professional development, and school-wide initiatives.
• Organize and showcase student artwork through exhibitions, displays, and school-wide arts events.
• Contribute to a school culture that celebrates bilingualism, biliteracy, diversity, and artistic expression.
• Participate in assigned school duties and other responsibilities consistent with the teaching role.

Position Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university required.
• Bilingual proficiency in Spanish and English required, including the ability to deliver instruction and communicate effectively with students in both languages.
• New York State teaching certification; certification in Visual Arts is a plus but not required.
• Experience teaching visual arts to middle school students preferred.
• Knowledge of visual arts curriculum development, instructional strategies, and student assessment.
• Ability to differentiate instruction and support English Language Learners and students with diverse learning needs.
• Strong classroom management, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, students, and families.
• Proficiency with educational technology and Google Workspace.
• Commitment to the mission and values of the American Dream Charter School.

To Apply

Please submit your resume and a brief statement describing your interest in the Middle School Visual Arts Teacher position, how your skills and experience align with the qualifications, and how the mission of the American Dream Charter School resonates with you.

Candidates are encouraged to include examples of their artwork, teaching portfolios, or student projects they have developed.

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: $67500 - $155,000 per year - Salary placement within the posted range will be commensurate with the candidate’s relevant K–12 classroom teaching experience, educational attainment, and New York State teaching certification status.

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift

Experience:

• Teaching: 1 year (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• Teaching Certification (Required)