Part-Time Art Specialist Teacher

Gig Harbor Academy; Gig Harbor (WA); On-site; USD 15,000 - 27,000; Part time

Job summary

An independent school in Gig Harbor is seeking a K-5 Art Specialist Teacher for a part-time role (0.3 FTE). Starting January 15, 2026, this position emphasizes a student-centered, inquiry-based approach within an inclusive community. Responsibilities include teaching engaging art classes, nurturing student growth, and collaborating with colleagues to enhance learning. Candidates should have a minimum of two years of teaching experience, and while a teaching certificate is desired, it is not required. The role requires strong communication and organizational skills.

Qualifications

• Commitment to a student-centered and inquiry-based learning environment.
• Minimum of two years of teaching experience at the K-5 level.
• Strong organizational skills to prepare and maintain records.

Responsibilities

• Teach K-5 Art classes and nurture each student's growth in artistry.
• Plan engaging instructional units and reflect on lesson delivery.
• Collaborate with colleagues and maintain communication with parents.
• Plan instructional units to showcase meaningful student work.
• Set clear objectives aligned with the school mission.
• Reflect on lessons and adapt teaching strategies.
• Prepare materials and manage art supplies resources.
• Maintain accurate records of student progress and provide feedback.
• Collaborate with colleagues, administrators, and parents.

Skills

Experience with inquiry-based teaching

Ability to create engaging art classes

Strong communication skills

Collaboration with colleagues

Education

Teaching certificate (desired)

Minimum of two years of experience

Tools

Art supplies management

Job description

Gig Harbor Academy has a 0.3 FTE (1.5 days per week) K-5 Art Specialist Teacher position open, starting January 15, 2026. This role is for the remainder of the 2025/26 school year only, but can be extended for the right candidate. This is an exciting opportunity for a teacher that is committed to an inquiry-based approach and a student-centered learning environment. This role will join our inclusive school community of 30+ faculty and staff that serve our school of 160 students from Preschool through 5th Grade on a 10-acre wooded campus in Gig Harbor, WA. Qualified candidates will be invited to the school for a tour and interview.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Teach developmentally appropriate and highly engaging Art classes to grades K-5.
• Nurture a caring and productive learning environment that enables each student to grow in their artistry and recognizes the individual needs of learners.
• Create a learning space that showcases student work within an organized and professional setting.
• Plan instructional units that facilitate active learning and result in a meaningful collection of student work that convey joyful discovery.
• Establish and communicate clear learning objectives for each lesson that align with the school’s mission.
• Reflect sincerely on lesson delivery and student engagement, and adapt teaching strategies when needed.
• Prepare all accompanying materials and demonstrate resourcefulness in the use of art supplies.
• Maintain accurate and complete records of students’ development, and provide appropriate student feedback on work to promote growth.
• Collaborate openly with colleagues, administrators, and parents, including developing cross-disciplinary learning activities, liaising with grade-level teachers, implementing Student Support Plans, and showcasing student work.

Other functions of the job include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Encourage parents to be partners in the education of their child by establishing open lines of communication.
• Participate in appropriate professional development activities.
• Not required but strongly encouraged, involvement in the After-School Enrichment program.

Specialist Teachers must have a minimum of two years of experience teaching at this age level. A teaching certificate is desired but not required for Specialist positions. Candidates are encouraged to visit the school’s website, www.gigharboracademy.org, for further information regarding the school’s mission and objectives. All inquiries please forward a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional references including a previous supervisor to by email to Dominic Kehoe, Head of School [e-mail] [phone].

Gig Harbor Academy is an equal-opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, national origin, religion, ethnicity, marital status, pregnancy, physical disability, gender, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status and all other classes or characteristics protected under the laws of the State of Washington.

DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION, & BELONGING

Gig Harbor Academyiscommitted to creating a welcoming and inclusive learningenvironment where the identity of every community member is honored.As anindependent school, we inviteand celebratediversity expressed through different backgrounds, experiences, values, and perspectives as we nurture a discovery of self, family, community, and the world. We work deliberately to deepen our understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion at our school and ensure that all students and families have a sense of belonging at Gig Harbor Academy.We embrace research, conversation, and experiences that develop our knowledge and shape our practices individually and collectively.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

All potential employees must provide a resume, cover letter, and contact information for three professional references including a current or past supervisor. A background check will be completed prior to the start date. All newly hired employees must complete a new hire packet containing all required documentation prior to the first day of employment. All inquiries for this position can be sent Dominic Kehoe, Head of School [e-mail]