Art Instructor

Research Foundation of The City University of New York•New York, NY

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The NYS Liberty Partnerships Program (LPP) aims to address dropout risks among New York State’s youth by connecting middle and high school students with higher education institutions. The program provides a safe environment for personal, social, and educational development. This is a five-week summer program focused on academic immersion, mentorship, and creative enrichment to foster student connectedness and build confidence. The LPP Art Instructor will be responsible for designing, adapting, and implementing an engaging, project-based art curriculum for high school students during this five-week summer session. The ideal candidate is a passionate educator or practicing artist who can use creative expression to promote socio-emotional growth, critical thinking, and student engagement. The instructor will collaborate closely with LPP program coordinators and advisors to ensure a supportive, inclusive, and culturally responsive studio environment.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree (BFA or BS) in Fine Arts, Art Education, Studio Art, or a related field is preferred.
New York State (NYS) Teacher Certification is a strong plus.
Minimum of 1–2 years of experience teaching or mentoring high school-aged youth, preferably within urban communities or grant-funded youth development programs.
Proficiency in multiple artistic disciplines and an understanding of how to integrate socio-emotional learning (SEL) into creative activities.
Excellent communication skills, an approachable attitude, and the ability to connect meaningfully with a diverse student population.
Must clear all standard RFCUNY background checks and fingerprinting processes prior to the start of the summer session.

Responsibilities

Create and execute a cohesive, multi-disciplinary art curriculum tailored for high school students, incorporating mediums such as painting, drawing, multimedia, or digital art.
Lead daily interactive studio art sessions, adapting lessons to meet the diverse needs, learning differences, and skill levels of participating youth.
Maintain a physically, mentally, and emotionally safe learning space. Utilize positive behavior management strategies to encourage active participation and group collaboration.
Meet regularly with the LPP Project Director/Coordinator for debriefings. Track daily student attendance and submit lesson plans and program records on time.
Guide students in preparing, curating, and showcasing their final coursework for an "End-of-Summer" community art exhibit or celebration.
Accompany and supervise students during scheduled cultural field trips or outdoor program activities as needed.
Perform other duties as assigned.