2025 SAIC Homan Square Youth Arts Club — Co-Teaching Artist Position

The School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) at Homan Square is seeking a Teaching Artist for its Youth Arts Club. This is a contracted, part-time teaching position spanning 12 weeks and includes:

• One planning meeting
• Two outreach events
• Ten instructional sessions on Tuesdays from 3:30–5:30 PM
• Total weekly commitment: 3:00–6:00 PM

Position Responsibilities

Each week, the Teaching Artist will prepare and lead beginner-level, introductory art activities and demonstrations in both 2D and 3D concepts, working alongside another Teaching Artist. Students will also receive guidance and mentorship on their independent projects. The instructors foster a safe, supportive studio environment and contribute to youth development by advancing the following learning goals:

• Students collaborate to engage with new art materials and ideas
• Students build confidence in presenting their work to others
• Students show growth in critical thinking, problem-solving, and planning projects through to completion
• Students connect art learning to their personal and community experiences

The studio encourages exploration, creativity, and individual expression. The Teaching Artist will also help coordinate occasional field trips and special events. In collaboration with SAIC Admissions, the club supports students in documenting artwork, building portfolios, and exploring pathways such as CAAP (College Arts Access Program) and college readiness.

Teaching Artist Duties Include

• Supporting student selection
• Sending weekly class reminders by text and email
• Developing a course outline and supply lists
• Establishing a welcoming, respectful tone and classroom culture
• Setting clear behavioral expectations and studio protocols
• Designing inclusive and engaging instruction for all learners
• Co-creating:
  • Requests for materials
  • Class supply lists
  • Course outlines
  • Google Form course evaluations
• Building community connections
• Coordinating visits by guests or visiting artists

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Art, Design, Architecture, or related field
• Classroom experience with youth, especially from underserved communities
• Strong cultural competency and experience working with diverse populations
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Experience in classroom management and youth mentorship
• Ability to pass a criminal background check and mandated reporter certification
• Passion for the mission of SAIC Homan Square

Preferred:

• Experience with community-based and multicultural arts programming
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and collaborate with a team
• Familiarity with North Lawndale and/or interest in local partnerships

Additional Expectations

This is a temporary contract position for one semester, with potential for renewal in future terms. SAIC reserves the right to cancel the class if enrollment falls below five students for more than three sessions.

Instructors are expected to:

• Dedicate additional time outside of class for preparation, student support, and documentation
• Submit reports and documentation (e.g., images of student work or students working) as requested
• Attend the required onboarding and training sessions
• Complete a background check and mandated reporter training

The Teaching Artist will also coordinate with the Assistant Director on:

• Supply purchasing
• Attendance reporting
• Sharing photos for the SAIC at the Homan Instagram account