What Does an Art Teacher Do?
The main role of an art teacher is to teach children about the history of art, various art forms, and art techniques. They also create lesson plans, evaluate student work, and provide feedback on students’ projects.
Steps to Become an Art Teacher
There are several steps to becoming an art teacher from earning your degree to the actual application process. Here are the steps to follow to become an art teacher.
Step 1: Earn a Degree
The first step is to earn a degree in art education or a related field. Palm Beach Atlantic University offers a degree in Art Education K-12 that thoroughly prepares graduates for a career in teaching art. This program covers both art and education, giving you the skills to succeed as an art teacher.
Step 2: Gain Experience
Most art education degree programs will incorporate real world experience through an internship, student teaching placement, or through other volunteer opportunities. PBA students will complete either a student teaching or art residence placement to gain practical experience that meets the Florida Department of Education teacher certification requirement.
Step 3: Pass Core Competency and Art Exams
The exact exams and core competency tests you will be required to pass vary depending on the state that you want to teach in. Passing these exams will allow you to teach in your state. Some of the tests you may be required to complete include the National Evaluation Series (NES) and the Praxis test.
Art teachers will also be required to complete a content knowledge test covering topics such as art history and art theory.
Step 4: Apply for State Licensure
After completing these steps, you will need to apply for licensure. Your application will usually require a copy of your degree, proof of student teaching completion, your fingerprints, and a passed background check.
Students may seek Florida certification after the following steps are completed:
- Apply to the state for certification: http://www.fldoe.org/edcert/ The state will send you a Statement of Eligibility.
- Schedule a Subject Area Exam if indicated on your Statement of Eligibility: Florida Teacher Certification Exams: http://www.fl.nesinc.com/
- Complete additional requirements listed on your Statement of Eligibility.
Step 5: Create a Portfolio
Your personal portfolio is a chance to show off your best work and market yourself as an excellent art teacher. Your portfolio will include examples of your artwork, lesson plans, and even samples of your student’s work. A well-prepared portfolio can set you apart from other applicants and give employers a look into your potential.
Step 6: Network & Apply
Once you have all of your qualifications in place, it’s time to start applying for jobs. There are a few ways you can make this process easier through networking and making connections. Consider joining professional organizations, like the National Art Education Association (NAEA), to find open job opportunities.
You can also explore job posting sites, connect with your university’s career services department, or browse school district websites in the areas you would like to teach in.
Art Teacher Specialties
A great way to increase your marketability as an art teacher is to develop a specialization. You can focus on teaching a specific age group, such as elementary or middle school. Some art teachers specialize in particular art forms, such as ceramics, digital art, or photography.
What Do You Learn in an Art Education Degree?
Some of the classes you’ll take in an art education degree include:
- Introduction to Teaching
- Classroom Management
- Foundations of Art & Design
- Art History
- Sculpture
- Ceramics
- Digital Photography
Career Outlook
According to the Federal Bureau of Labor Statistics, the career outlook for K-12 art teachers is promising and the demand for qualified teachers is expected to grow. You can increase your hiring potential by building a strong portfolio and gaining as much teaching experience as you can.