Founding Fine Arts Teacher | Cedar Rapids Prep

Founding Fine Arts Teacher (Music, Visual Art, Theater) | Cedar Rapids Prep  

About Cedar Rapids Prep
Cedar Rapids Prep is a tuition-free, college-preparatory school opening in August 2025, initially serving 6th, 7th, and 8th grades, with plans to expand through 12th grade. The school emphasizes academic excellence, leadership, and personal ownership, providing a supportive community where students are paired with dedicated advisors to ensure their success. Cedar Rapids Prep offers a private school experience without the cost, featuring top-notch facilities, student uniforms, and rigorous academics. As part of the Opportunity Education Network, the school aims to empower students to lead ambitious and purpose-driven lives.

About the Role: Fine Arts Teacher

The Founding Fine Arts Teacher will primarily focus on developing and delivering introductory art, music, theater, or creative expression courses that allow students to gain a valuable foundation within fine arts. This is an exceptional opportunity to build an arts program from the ground up alongside a staff committed to creating immersive educational experiences for students. 

During an interview process, candidates will have a chance to talk more specifically about their personal arts background, philosophy and vision for their  future classroom.

Instruction Delivery & Curriculum Development (80%)

• Design and implement curriculum for introductory courses in drawing, painting, theater, music, or other areas of interest.
• 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.

Student Engagement & Support (15%)

• Help design and expand an 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.

Family & Community Engagement (5%)

• 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.

Ideal Candidate Experiences

• Valid teaching license ideal.
• Experience teaching visual or creative 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.
• Experience organizing student art exhibitions or collaborative art projects.

Ideal Candidate Traits

• Excited to join a founding team and shape the future of the arts at Cedar Rapids Prep.
• Committed to Cedar Rapid Prep’s mission of excellence and joy for students, staff, and families.
• Passionate about nurturing artistic expression and student creativity.
• Highly organized and flexible in a fast-paced school setting.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.

Application Process

Please apply online at cedarrapidsprep.org/careers. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis with preference given to candidates applying before June 5,  2025. Candidates advancing through the process should expect multiple rounds of interviews with various stakeholders, a potential performance task, reference checks, and a blend of in-person and virtual interviews. 

Compensation

Salary is currently budgeted in a range competitive with local district expectations. This role is eligible for IPERS (Iowa Public Employees’ Retirement System) and a full suite of medical, dental, vision, and other benefits.

Statement of Non-Discrimination

Opportunity Education is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace where all individuals are valued and respected.