K-12 Art Teacher

K-12 Art Teacher 

Job Title: Manhattan Christian School K–12 Art Teacher

Reports to: Principal

Position Type: Full-time 

Position Summary: The K–12 Art Teacher, in partnership with the Manhattan Christian school board and administration, will plan and deliver a Christ-centered visual arts curriculum that nurtures creativity, technical skill, and Biblical worldview across elementary, middle, and high school levels. This teacher will provide weekly art instruction for all elementary students, elective art classes for middle school, and a variety of studio and art appreciation electives for high school. The ideal candidate integrates faith and learning, differentiates instruction for developmental stages, manages classroom safety and materials, and partners with families and school leadership to support a thriving arts program.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Art Education, Fine Arts, or related field (or equivalent coursework and experience).
• Montana State teaching credential preferred (or willingness to obtain).
• Strong portfolio demonstrating a range of media and teaching experience across age groups.
• Commitment to Christian Education in general (as defined, for example, in the MCS Statements of Faith and Purpose) and to Manhattan Christian School in particular.
• Lead an exemplary Christian life, both in private and public settings.
• Be an active member in a church that would support the doctrinal standards of Manhattan Christian School.

Core Responsibilities / Duties

• Curriculum & Lesson Planning
  • Implement a coherent, developmentally appropriate, Christ-centered K–12 art curriculum aligned with school goals.
  • Create weekly lesson plans for elementary art classes and unit plans for middle and high school electives.
  • Integrate art history, art appreciation, and Biblical perspectives on creativity and stewardship into lessons.
• Materials, Budget & Safety
  • Manage art supplies, equipment, and storage; inventory and requisition materials within allocated budget.
  • Ensure safe use, storage, and disposal of materials and tools; teach and enforce safe studio practices.
  • Maintain an art room that is organized, welcoming, and reflective of Christian values.
• Exhibitions & Community Engagement
  • Organize and coordinate student art shows, displays, and participation in school events (e.g., chapel, open house, fine arts nights).
  • Collaborate with classroom teachers and other departments for cross-curricular projects and special events.
  • Foster community partnerships (local galleries, churches, art organizations) as appropriate.
• Professional Growth & Faith Integration
  • Model Christian character and incorporate biblical worldview in teaching art, discussing creativity as a God-given gift.
  • Participate in faculty meetings, professional development, and school spiritual life activities.
  • Stay current in best practices for art education, assessment, and contemporary art pedagogy.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

• Ability to work with K–12 students in classroom and studio settings.
• Ability to lift and move art supplies and equipment (moderate lifting).
• Flexibility for occasional evening or weekend events (art shows, parent nights).

Compensation & Benefits

• Wages commensurate with experience as indicated on the MCS pay scale and based on assigned FTE. This is a 1 FTE position.  
• Medical and Dental coverage available according to MCS teacher policy. For benefits this position is treated as a Professional Educators Contract position.
• Paid Medical leave and personal days.
• Retirement benefits with matching 401K contributions per school policy.

Application Materials Requested

• Cover letter
• Resume/CV
• Written testimony of faith
• Written philosophy of education