Elementary Art Teacher

K–5 PYP Art TeacherTarbiyah Academy | Full-Time | In-PersonReports to: Head of Lower SchoolSalary Range: $40,000–$70,000 (based on placement on salary scale)Tarbiyah Academy is seeking a creative, mission-aligned, and inquiry-minded K–5 PYP Art Teacher to bring the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme to life through the visual arts within a holistic Islamic educational framework.As a PYP Art Teacher, you are responsible for teaching a visual arts program that is intellectually engaging, spiritually grounded, and developmentally appropriate. You will teach art as both a discipline and a language of inquiry, helping students explore ideas, express identity, and deepen their connection to the world around them and their Creator.At Tarbiyah Academy, teaching is both a professional responsibility and an act of stewardship. We are an incredibly relational and collaborative community, grounded in a commitment to purifying our niyyah (intention) in service of our students.Pedagogy & Instructional ExcellenceThe PYP Art Teacher is expected to:Deliver high-quality, inquiry-based art instruction aligned with the IB Primary Years ProgrammeTweak an already designed K–5 art curriculum that develops students' skills across a range of media, techniques, and artistic traditionsCollaborate with homeroom teachers to integrate the visual arts meaningfully into transdisciplinary Units of InquiryTeach art as both a creative process and a form of inquiry, encouraging students to develop and communicate ideas visuallyCultivate students' understanding of art history, global artistic traditions, and the Islamic visual heritageIntegrate Islamic values, aesthetics, and character education authentically into the art programClearly articulate what is being taught, why it matters, and how learning will be assessedUse formative and summative assessments, including portfolios and student reflections, to guide instruction and differentiate for diverse learnersProvide high-quality scaffolding and timely, actionable feedbackEngage students in reflection, critique, and ownership of their creative workCollaboratively plan with homeroom teachers and specialists to ensure coherence and progression across grade levelsStudio Culture & Student DevelopmentCreate a structured, joyful, and emotionally safe studio environment where students feel free to take creative risksEstablish and maintain clear routines and expectations for the safe, responsible use of art materials and toolsImplement positive behavior systems aligned with school-wide expectationsSupport students' social-emotional growth and character development through the creative processFoster belonging, dignity, and respect within the studio communityMaintain an organized, inspiring, and well-resourced studio space that supports optimal learningCurate and display student work throughout the school to celebrate learning and build a vibrant visual cultureFamily Partnership & CommunicationBuild strong relationships with families through proactive and transparent communicationContribute to three-way conferences and student-led conferencesProvide clear and informative progress reports on students' artistic growthShare student work and learning with families through exhibitions, showcases, and digital portfoliosPartner with parents to support student growth artistically, academically, and sociallyProfessional Collaboration & GrowthActively participate in collaborative planning and professional learning communitiesEngage in IB professional development and ongoing teacher growth, particularly in PYP arts educationContribute to accreditation and authorization processesSeek continuous improvement in instructional practice and technology integrationOffer at least one extracurricular activity per weekSupport and contribute to school-wide events, exhibitions, field trips, and co-curricular responsibilitiesContribute to the visual identity of school events, productions, and community celebrationsSpiritual & Cultural ExpectationsTarbiyah Academy teachers are expected to embody:Amanah (trustworthiness) in professional conductIhsān (excellence) in preparation and deliveryRahmah (compassion) in student interactionsShūra (collaboration) in team planningTeachers are encouraged to engage in ongoing tazkiyah, self-reflection and intentional growth, to sustain patience, emotional regulation, and sincerity in their work. We believe that spiritual culture and professional excellence are inseparable.Who You AreYou are deeply aligned with the mission of an Islamic educational institutionYou have a genuine love and appreciation for children and for the creative potential within every learnerYou are a skilled artist and educator with strong command of a variety of media and techniquesYou understand differentiation and inquiry-based learningYou see art as a vehicle for meaning-making, inquiry, and spiritual reflectionYou are organized, reflective, and detail-orientedYou communicate effectively in English, orally and in writingYou build strong relationships with students, colleagues, and familiesYou are flexible, resilient, and maintain high expectationsYou thrive in collaborative environmentsSalary DeterminationSalary placement is determined by full-time teaching experience, state certification status, and highest degree earned (Bachelor's, Master's, or Doctorate).Minimum QualificationsRequired:Bachelor's degree in Art Education, Fine Arts, or a related field from an accredited U.S. universityAuthorization to work in the United StatesStrong command of English, orally and in writingDemonstrated artistic ability and a portfolio reflecting breadth across mediaPreferred:State certification in Art Education (K–12)Master's degree in Art Education, Fine Arts, or a related fieldExperience teaching in the IB Primary Years ProgrammeExperience in independent or Islamic schoolsFamiliarity with Islamic art traditions and their integration into K–5 learningWhy Tarbiyah AcademyTarbiyah Academy is committed to developing confident learners rooted in faith, knowledge, and character. We are building a school culture that values intellectual rigor, spiritual intentionality, collaboration, and growth.We seek educators who approach teaching not simply as a job, but as meaningful work grounded in purpose.To ApplySend your resume through our application using LinkedIn. Then email your resume, cover letter, and a link or PDF of your teaching/art portfolio to our Arts Coordinator, Nadia Janjua, njanjua@tarbiyahacadmy.org