Visual Art Teacher

Hamilton County Schools; Burlington; On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Hamilton County Schools is seeking a passionate Visual Arts teacher for East Ridge Middle School. The ideal candidate will inspire students through engaging art education, foster a positive classroom culture, and actively involve families in the learning process. Join a vibrant community dedicated to student success and artistic growth.

Qualifications

• Must hold a valid state of Tennessee teaching certification in Visual Arts K-12.
• Candidates must hold a bachelor's degree.

Responsibilities

• Design compelling learning experiences for students based on Tennessee Academic Standards.
• Build a safe and productive classroom culture.
• Develop strong relationships with students’ families.

Skills

Communication

Team Player

Artistic Literacy

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Tennessee Teaching Certification

Job description

Overview

Hamilton County Schools, located in Chattanooga, TN, is working to ensure that all students thrive and experience a future without limits. We are committed to excellence for every student and are seeking outstanding leaders, teachers, support staff, and district employees who desire to make a difference in the lives of students. With nearly 75 schools, we are confident that you can find your place in Hamilton County.

Learn more about working for Hamilton County Schools at careers.hcde.org and get to know us and our strategic plan, Opportunity 2030.

East Ridge Middle

East Ridge Middle School, nestled in the heart of Chattanooga, TN, is a vibrant and diverse learning community where students in grades 6-8 grow academically, socially, and personally. Built on the pillars of engagement, connection, motivation, and service, ERMS is more than just a school—it’s a place where every child is empowered to succeed.

Our vision is clear: to shape responsible citizens through intellectual growth, character building, and social development. From rigorous academics to competitive athletics, students at ERMS thrive in an environment that challenges and supports them year-round. Our dedicated teachers don’t just teach—they mentor, inspire, and invest in their students, offering morning tutoring, staying late to coach, and creating meaningful relationships that make the middle school years both impactful and memorable.

At the core of our school culture is the Pioneer Way—a mission that guides our students and staff in being Respectful, Responsible, Resilient, and Ready. These values influence every interaction, fostering a positive and inclusive atmosphere where students feel valued and prepared for the future.

With a student body that reflects the rich diversity of our community—45% Hispanic, 24% African American, 22% White, and 9% other—ERMS celebrates differences while ensuring equitable opportunities for all. We seek educators who not only hold high expectations for every child but who also bring passion, a growth mindset, and a heart for student success. At East Ridge Middle, we are more than a school—we are a family, paving the way for brighter futures, one student at a time.

Responsibilities

• Teaching & Learning - Deeply understand the Tennessee Academic Standards for Fine Arts Education and design compelling learning experiences for all students. Establish clear learning targets and lesson plans for every lesson. Build rigorous and aligned assessments, administer district assessments, and consistently implement instructional best practices. When possible, make genuine curriculum connections with other academic subjects in instruction. As provided under the TN Academic Standards for Fine Arts “Present” domain, each grade level or course will exhibit art work up to two times per year.

Follow Hamilton County Schools’ instructional framework, including:

• Ensuring Equity in Actions
• Setting High Expectations
• Building a Productive Classroom Culture
• Responsive Teaching and Learning

The Music teacher may engage students in additional after-school activities including but not limited to guitar, chorus, or staging a musical.

• Classroom Culture: Build a safe and productive classroom culture that fosters student responsibility for classroom supplies and equipment. Positive relationships are evident, procedures are clear, and the classroom is safe and secure for learning to unfold. Student and teacher interactions promote a growth mindset and students take ownership of art processes, including clean-up.
• Family & Community: Consistently develop strong relationships with students’ families while diligently informing parents of expectations, positive news, and/or concerns about their children. Inform parents when student art displays are available for public viewing.
• Professional Responsibilities: Actively participate in professional learning communities (PLCs) with colleagues in order to improve teaching and student learning. Reflect on instruction and leadership while contributing ideas, expertise, and time to the mission and goals of the school and district-wide Fine Arts department. Maintain an accurate supplies and equipment inventory.

Qualifications

Knowledge/Education/Experience:

• Teaching candidates must hold a valid state of Tennessee teaching certification in Visual Arts K-12 or be upcoming graduates in an accredited teacher preparation program. If you hold a teaching license in another state, you must apply for a Tennessee teaching license.
• Candidates must hold a bachelor's degree.

Skills/Qualifications:

• Committed to high academic achievement, visual and artistic literacy, and high expectations for all students
• Able to be a positive team-player and communicate effectively with colleagues, supervisors, students, and families
• Open to being coached and receiving feedback in order to advance learning and growth for students
• Professional with high personal standards and integrity

Compensation

Salary is based on a combination of relevant education and experience.

Salary Scale

This position may be eligible for an increase in total compensation. The Differentiated Compensation Plan applies to designated schools and hard-to-staff positions. Please seehttps://www.hcde.org/staff/human_resources/differentiated_compensationfor more details.