Founding Fine Arts Teacher | Des Moines Prep

Des Moines Prep•Des Moines, IA

About The Position

Des Moines Prep is a new growing public charter school in downtown Des Moines committed to achieving exceptional outcomes for students: where they own and drive their learning and love their school experience. Our model combines rigorous college preparatory academics and a robust student-centered approach to instruction. We believe students learn best when they are known well, challenged deeply, and supported fully. Des Moines Prep opened in 2025 and serves grades 8–9, expanding to serve grades 7–12 in the coming years. Our school emphasizes agency, purpose, and preparation for the future, giving students opportunities to explore college and career pathways and pursue their ambitions in a supportive, close-knit environment. The Fine Arts Teacher will focus on developing and delivering introductory fine arts courses aligned to their area of expertise, such as visual art, music, theater, or dance. There is flexibility to design additional courses and experiences based on teacher strengths, student interest, and the evolving needs of the school. This is a unique opportunity to build a fine arts program from the ground up in a brand-new learning space. The school is committed to investing in high-quality materials, equipment, and facilities to support a vibrant, creative fine arts experience for students.

Requirements

Valid teaching license required
Experience teaching visual arts, preferably in a secondary setting
Strong understanding of a variety of artistic techniques and mediums
Proven ability to build curriculum and instructional practices from the ground up

Nice To Haves

Experience organizing student art/performance exhibitions or collaborative art/performance projects
Deep belief in all students’ potential and a commitment to holding high academic and behavioral expectations
A growth mindset, constantly seeking to refine and improve instructional practice
Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues
Adaptability and excitement about being part of a founding team at a new school
Readiness to go above and beyond, including putting in extra time in and outside of your role, to build Des Moines’ premier college prep school

Responsibilities

Design and implement curriculum for introductory courses in visual art, music, theater, or dance
Develop engaging lesson plans that cultivate students' creativity and technical skills
Assess student work, provide feedback, and maintain high expectations for artistic excellence
Establish a welcoming, organized, and inspiring classroom environment
Build strong relationships with students, fostering a culture of high expectations, accountability, and support
Serve as an Advisory teacher, mentoring a small group of students in academic and personal growth throughout their four-year experience at Des Moines Prep
Help design and expand a fine arts program that evolves as the school grows
Create opportunities to showcase student work within the school and community
Provide input on future arts programming
Assist in establishing partnerships with local artists or organizations
Work closely with fellow teachers and school leadership to align curriculum, assessment, and instructional strategies
Participate in school-wide professional development to continuously refine instructional practice, including regular data and assessment reflection cycles
Engage in feedback cycles with the Dean of Academics and Principal to improve teaching effectiveness
Communicate regularly with families about student progress, celebrating successes and addressing challenges proactively
Participate in school events, family conferences, and outreach efforts to build strong relationships with families and the community
Help students and families see the relevance of art in their everyday lives, future careers, and societal challenges