Adaptive Art Teacher

Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan•New York, NY

29d•Onsite

About The Position

The Marlene Meyerson Jewish Community Center Manhattan (MMJCCM) is seeking a creative, flexible, and compassionate Adaptive Art Teacher to join the CORE team on three Tuesdays per month, facilitating programming from 12:30-1:45pm. The instructor will design and facilitate engaging art experiences that are accessible to individuals with a wide range of communication styles, physical abilities, and learning needs. The ideal candidate is passionate about adaptive arts, values participant-led creativity, and enjoys collaborating as part of an interdisciplinary team. The Jack and Shirley Silver Center for Diverse Abilities builds and nurtures an inclusive and accepting community where individuals with disabilities and their families have opportunities to make meaningful connections to each other and their community. We serve as a catalyst and leader, transforming the ways in which the community at large understands and interacts with people with different abilities. CORE is a vibrant social community for young adults with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities, who meet twice weekly to build friendships, explore interests, and develop new skills through engaging, accessible programming. Participants take part in classes including Art, Game Design, Film, Fitness, Music, community outings, and more, with an emphasis on creativity, communication, and meaningful community participation. The Marlene Meyerson Jewish Community Center of Manhattan Together with our community, the Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan creates a welcoming and vibrant environment where individuals from all walks of life come together to connect, grow, and learn. Rooted in Jewish values, it is a cornerstone of the Upper West Side that provides something for every stage of life through a multifaceted array of offerings, spanning comprehensive children's and family programs, cutting-edge health and wellness, thought-provoking arts and culture, and vital social services. It imagines Jewish life that is inclusive and diverse, creating a supportive space for people of all backgrounds to engage, nurture their well-being, and find a deep sense of belonging.

Requirements

Experience teaching art to individuals with disabilities or diverse learning needs.
Knowledge of adaptive art techniques and inclusive teaching practices.
Experience working with neurodiverse adults and individuals with physical disabilities.
Ability to create an encouraging, strengths-based classroom environment.
Creativity, flexibility, patience, and strong interpersonal skills.
Excellent communication and organizational abilities.
Ability to collaborate effectively with an interdisciplinary team.
A positive attitude and good sense of humor.
Ability to sit, stand, bend, lift up to 20 pounds, speak, and hear, sometimes for extended periods of time.
Ability to frequently move throughout the classroom to support participants and manage materials.
Ability to use a computer and office equipment for lesson planning and communication.
May require assisting with setup, cleanup, and transporting art supplies within the building.

Nice To Haves

Degree or coursework in Art Education, Studio Art, Special Education, Art Therapy, Occupational Therapy, or a related field preferred.
Experience supporting AAC users and individuals with communication needs.
Familiarity with sensory-informed and person-centered teaching practices.
Experience adapting materials and activities for participants with varied motor abilities.
Knowledge of disability inclusion and accessible arts programming.

Responsibilities

Design and facilitate weekly adaptive art classes that are engaging, accessible, and responsive to participants' interests and abilities.
Modify projects, materials, and teaching strategies to support a variety of physical, cognitive, sensory, and communication needs.
Foster a welcoming, encouraging classroom environment where every participant can experience creative success and self-expression.
Collaborate with program staff to implement individualized supports and promote active participation.
Utilize adaptive tools, visual supports, AAC, and sensory-informed teaching practices as appropriate.
Prepare, organize, and maintain art materials and classroom supplies.
Communicate with staff regarding participant engagement, accommodations, and program needs.
Participate in occasional planning meetings and collaborate on seasonal projects, exhibitions, or community events.