Art Teacher / Art Therapist

• The Richardson School is seeking an Adaptive Art Teacher or Art Therapist to join their Appleton Team!

The Richardson School is an alternative placement option for local districts to access for their students with significant needs and behavioral concerns. Our students are typically diagnosed with a combination of developmental or neurological disabilities and emotional, behavioral or mental health disorders. The school calendar follows the typical 180 educational days with the opportunity to attend Extended School Year for students in need of this programming.

CULTURE:

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is not just a phrase; each word speaks to distinct values. Our future success will rest on collaboration among people of different experiences, cultures and backgrounds. We seek to foster an environment that reflects our diverse communities and a culture of equity and belonging where everyone feels seen, heard, valued, and empowered to succeed. This work starts with each of us.

The Art Teacher is responsible for providing art education and coordinating special art events. The Art Teacher plans, develops, and implements art educational programs and activities designed specifically to promote physical, mental, and social skill development. Programs are adapted to the needs of the student and encourage a supportive learning environment. Works with the Special Education Coach in the daily program implementation and coordination.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Provides appropriate individualized art activities within the school structure/treatment plan and relevant IEP requirements.

• Develops recommendations, updates progress, incorporates knowledge gained from the student's history and submits to the Special Education Coach.

• Designs and modifies traditional art activities including the tools, techniques and medium used to meet the skill level and abilities of the students. Selects projects and activities that foster an environment conducive to the development of the students' independence, competence, and sense of self-worth, as well as physical, mental, and social skills

• Displays projects created by the students in order to increase their self-esteem and portray a positive image at the facility and in the community. Writes a summary of each project describing the activity, participation, its success, and suggestions for improvement, when appropriate. Maintains the art display area in a clean and organized manner.

• Responsible for maintaining an inventory list of all art supplies and equipment. With approval, purchases supplies and equipment as needed ensuring that they meet the needs of the students.

• Documents student progress in class and shares this as appropriate and contributes to IEP as appropriate.

• Ability to substitute teach in other areas of the school as needed or directed. Follows lesson plans as outlined by primary teacher.

• Demonstrates behavior management and behavior education techniques used by the school.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in art education or master's in art therapy. Adaptive Art Education certification preferred but not required.

• Possesses upon hire or obtains within six (6) months of starting, a teaching license with Wisconsin DPI and maintains same, not allowing it to lapse

• Experience working with individuals who display needs in the areas of autism, cognitive delays, EBD, mental health, and other related disabilities preferred

• Previous experience designing and facilitating adaptive art education and projects preferred.

• Demonstrates initiative, flexibility, and exercises good judgment in making quick decisions and solving problems.

WAGES & BENEFITS:

• Hours: 8-4pm during the regular school year + ESY stipend available

• Schedule: Monday- Friday, following a traditional school calendar

• Salary Range: $54k- $71k starting; Final salary based on level of education + years of experience. Our teachers are paid year round/non-contract!

• Tuition Assistance program for further professional development

• Health, Dental, Vision, short-term/long-term disability, life insurance

• Generous PTO package: 5 Sick Days + 5 Personal Days + Year round Pay to cover summer

• We are an Employee Owned Company! You will automatically acquire company stock after one year of employment.

• 401(k) Match

• PayActive - access your wages the very next day

Join a school that truly provides the individualized attention that is required for students having significant special needs!

*