We are an independent, Montessori school in Chicago serving 560+ students and their families, starting at a parent-infant class and up to 8th grade. We are a community of shared values working to fulfill a meaningful mission. NNM faculty, staff and parents strive for an equitable and inclusive school culture through intentional, reflective practice. We work together to challenge all students to think for themselves, pursue their ideas and become real learners for the real world. 

Learn more about us on our website: www.nnms.org

We are seeking a full-time Studio Art & Wood Shop Teacher to join our team here at Near North Montessori in Chicago!

Schedule: 40 hours per week, typically Monday through Friday, working 9 am to 5 pm during the school year, with adjustments or additional time as needed. This role may also include required daytime & overnight field trip participation. This is a school year role, starting in August and ending in mid June each year. There will be an opportunity to work summer camps if desired. We are searching for someone to start in August 2024 for our 2024/25 school year!

Position Overview:

The Studio Art & Wood Shop Teacher oversees projects that happen in the shop space during open studio hours, afternoon, and after school hours, collaborating with other members of the STEAM studio team and in coordination with classroom teachers and the wider school community as assigned. All STEAM studio staff are responsible for preparing and maintaining workspaces for learners ages 4-14. The Shop teacher will offer instruction and guidance in subjects that include, but are not limited to: drawing, painting, printmaking, woodworking, and 3D design for children ages 4-14. 

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

• Offering classes for primary, elementary, and junior high students as scheduled 
• Instruct Junior High students in art classes as scheduled 
• Introduce students to fine art techniques, including, but not limited to: drawing and painting
• Provide guidance and instruction to students working on individual or collaborative projects - encouraging independent work while building on existing skills 
• Teach art history lessons and information as appropriate to lessons and projects; when appropriate, incorporate subjects from other curriculum areas or school events into art classes
• Work with Academic Directors to explain and evolve the art and shop program 
• Use material as appropriate to lessons and grade level
• Maintain art and shop class space and materials; ensure careful attention is paid to preparing the environment for student work
• Keep records and communicate student progress, and any concerns, with the Art Director and classroom teachers as needed
• Acquire professional training in the educational field by attending educational conferences, training workshops and other related activities
• May need to attend field trips, some requiring overnight stays at campgrounds, hotels and other places while supervising students. May also be responsible for recess, snack, nap, extended day work, and other extensions responsibilities as assigned
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as required, assigned, or requested

• Bachelor's degree or similar level of experience
• At least three (3)+ years teaching experience 
• Experience teaching fine art, preferably at an elementary level
• Experience in wood shop and/or related working spaces
• Knowledge of or willingness to learn foundational Near North Montessori (NNM) philosophy and practices, models class practices that align with Montessori pedagogy
• Demonstrated ability to adapt to a variety of settings and environments
• Basic understanding of a child's physical, social, emotional development
• Demonstrated ability to provide high level of support and assistance both in and out of the classroom
• A broad general education and dedication to lifelong learning
• Interpersonal relations skills, skills in written and oral communications
• Experience in planning and teaching of all levels of skills to students whose ages range from preschool to junior high
• An understanding of the development of children and ability to communicate with children and adults
• Strong understanding of student characteristics and faculty needs at various levels
• Ability to commit to equitable education practices, anti-bias, anti-racist work and learning
• Creative and energetic teaching strategies and good classroom management skills

• Pay Information: Eligible for an exempt salary, starting at $52,500 per year.
• Benefits Information:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision packages available for both you and your dependents. HSA (health savings account) available as a tie-in to one level of medical plan.
  • Both individual and dependent FSA (flexible spending accounts) available.
  • Fully-funded short term disability and individual life insurance available, with option to upgrade to long term disability and group life insurance for an additional cost.
  • Robust paid time off policy that includes at least 10 paid days off per school year.
  • Paid school holidays can add up to 25 extra paid days off per year.
  • 403b retirement planning available, with a company match of 100% up to 6%.
  • Access to an EAP (employee assistance program) that provides up to 6 free consultations per year on a variety of life concerns.
  • Suite of voluntary benefits available, such as pre-tax transit deductions, pet insurance, accident & critical illness insurance, and more.