Art & Innovation Design Teacher (4K-8)

POSITION OBJECTIVE

The Art & Innovation Design Teacher (4K-8) serves as the creative and visual instructional leader for WSTEM. This position designs and delivers a rigorous, standards-aligned, vertically integrated multimedia art program while advancing WSTEM's five instructional pillars: Multi-Age Instruction, Interdisciplinary Learning, Science & Engineering Integration, Authentic Learning Experiences, and Collaboration & Community.

This role extends beyond traditional art education. The Art & Innovation Design Teacher embeds design thinking, digital media, and creative problem-solving within STEM and Project-Based Learning experiences while also supporting the school's visual storytelling, exhibitions, and creative identity. The ideal candidate is a visionary educator who views art as engineering, storytelling, innovation, and community connection.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

a. Instructional Excellence & Interdisciplinary Design

• Design and deliver a standards-aligned 4K-8 visual arts curriculum aligned to Wisconsin Academic Standards for Art & Design.
• Integrate traditional fine arts with digital media, photography, animation, video, and design technologies.
• Embed design thinking, ideation, prototyping, critique, and revision processes into instruction.
• Develop interdisciplinary units that connect art with literacy, science, math, and engineering.
• Differentiate instruction to support diverse learners, including students with IEPs and 504 plans.
• Establish and maintain student digital portfolios to document growth over time.

b. STEM Integration & Innovation

• Incorporate real-world design challenges connected to STEM applications.
• Introduce students to multimedia production tools and digital design platforms.
• Facilitate hands-on creative problem-solving experiences emphasizing iteration and reflection.
• Encourage entrepreneurial thinking, creativity, and innovation.
• Collaborate with STEM educators to support Project-Based Learning exhibitions and cross-disciplinary initiatives.

c. Authentic Learning & Public Exhibition

• Curate student art installations throughout the school environment.
• Lead seasonal or annual exhibitions tied to interdisciplinary PBL presentations.
• Facilitate family workshops, community art events, and creative showcases.
• Elevate the school's physical space through intentional design and student-centered displays.
• Support visual storytelling that translates student learning into meaningful public experiences.

d. Assessment & Reflective Practice

• Utilize formative and summative assessments to measure artistic growth and skill development.
• Provide structured critique opportunities to promote reflection and revision.
• Maintain accurate student records and digital portfolio documentation.
• Communicate student progress effectively with families.

e. Classroom Culture & Student Development

• Establish a positive, inclusive, and culturally responsive studio environment.
• Promote student voice, creative risk-taking, and agency.
• Teach collaboration, reflection, and growth mindset practices.
• Reinforce social-emotional skills through critique protocols and collaborative design work.

f. Collaboration & Community Engagement

• Participate in teacher collaboration to ensure vertical alignment and interdisciplinary integration.
• Engage actively in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs).
• Support partnerships with local artists, arts organizations, and community collaborators.
• Contribute to school-wide initiatives, exhibitions, recruitment events, and community celebrations.
• Maintain strong communication with families regarding student creativity and growth.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Wisconsin teaching licensure (Art Education or eligibility).
• Minimum of 1+ years of successful teaching experience.
• Strong proficiency in digital design and multimedia tools (Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, website platforms, video editing, etc.).
• Experience with differentiated instruction and inclusive practices.
• Strong classroom management and organizational skills.
• Ability to build positive relationships with students, colleagues, and families.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in STEM integration and/or Project-Based Learning (PBL).
• Experience in a charter or innovative school setting.
• Photography, videography, or multimedia production expertise.
• Experience developing digital portfolios or exhibition-based programs.
• Experience building or redesigning an art program.
• Experience working in a multi-age or team-teaching environment.

Why Teach at WSTEM?

• Build a Signature Innovation Art Program | Design and lead a vertically aligned 4K-8 multimedia art curriculum that integrates traditional visual arts, digital media, photography, animation, and emerging technologies.
• Integrate Art with STEM & Engineering | Embed design thinking and visual communication into STEM units and Project-Based Learning experiences. Support interdisciplinary collaboration that strengthens creativity and problem-solving.
• Teach in a Collaborative Multi-Age Model | Work alongside K-5 and middle school educators to support cross-grade projects, exhibitions, and integrated learning experiences.
• Create Authentic Learning & Public Exhibitions | Curate student showcases, digital portfolios, and immersive installations that highlight growth, iteration, and creative excellence.
• Shape the School's Creative Identity | Support visual storytelling through exhibitions, displays, and collaborative projects that reflect WSTEM's culture of innovation and academic excellence.
• Be Part of an Innovative Charter Environment | Join a growth-minded team committed to continuous improvement, bold ideas, and building something exceptional for students and families.

PARTNERSHIP WITH CESA 1

This position is in partnership with CESA 1, through which you would be a CESA 1 employee of record, giving you access to competitive compensation and benefits, licensure support, and an award-winning culture.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

CESA 1 provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants, and prohibits unlawful discrimination on the basis of age, race, color, national origin, ancestry, creed, disability, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, arrest or conviction record, military service, genetic information, use or nonuse of lawful products off CESA 1's premises during nonworking hours, and any other reason prohibited by state or federal law. CESA 1 complies with all applicable state and federal laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. CESA 1 will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement promotion, termination, layoff, leaves of absences, compensation and training.