Founding Art Teacher (Part-Time) | Des Moines Prep

Founding Art Teacher (Part-Time) | Des Moines Prep

www.desmoinesprep.org 

About Des Moines Prep

Des Moines Prep (www.desmoinesprep.org)  is a new public charter high school opening in August 2025 to serve 150 ninth-grade students in its inaugural class. The school will add an additional grade level each year, building out a full comprehensive high school that offers academic excellence, a wide array of extracurriculars, and hyper-focused college and career preparation. As one of the flagship schools for Opportunity Education (www.opportunityeducation.org), Des Moines Prep aims to set a model for schools nationwide.

About the Role: Founding Art Teacher (.5)

The Founding Art Teacher will teach approximately 3–4 sections of students per semester and receive embedded planning time as part of the school day. This half-time position is expected to grow into a full-time role for the 2026–2027 school year, and we are seeking a candidate who is eager to grow with the program.

Teachers will primarily focus on developing and delivering introductory art courses such as Introduction to Art and Drawing/Painting. There is also flexibility to design and teach additional courses in 3D art or digital mediums, depending on the teacher’s interests and student demand.

This is an exceptional opportunity to build a visual arts program from the ground up in a state-of-the-art, brand-new classroom. The space includes abundant natural light, a newly installed kiln, and access to high-quality art supplies.

Responsibilities

As a dynamic and growing organization, responsibilities will evolve; however, core areas of focus include:

Instruction Delivery & Curriculum Development (80%)

• Teach approximately 3–4 sections of art courses per semester focused on foundational artistic skills.
• Design and implement curriculum for introductory courses in drawing, painting, and 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 a visual 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, including courses in 3D and digital mediums.
• 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 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.
• 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 Des Moines Prep.
• Committed to Des Moines 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

Interested applicants should apply here.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis with preference given to candidates applying before April 30, 2025. Candidates advancing through the process should expect multiple rounds of interviews with various stakeholders, a performance task, thorough 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.

Start Date & Additional Questions
The expected start date for the position is August 1, 2025, with onboarding and professional development before the school year begins to ensure a successful founding year.

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.