Interim Middle School Art Teacher

Overview

Temporary, Full-Time (February 23-June 13, 2026)

The San Francisco Friends School (SFFS), located in the heart of the Mission District in San Francisco, educates K-8 students in the tradition of Quaker learning. By example and commitment, we hope to inspire all connected with our school to work together toward a peaceful and caring society. For further information about San Francisco Friends School’s beginnings, mission, and philosophy, please visit our website riendsschool.org.

The school seeks teachers who resonate with the Friends School mission, which provides an exemplary education in a community dedicated to problem-solving, service to others, simplicity, social justice, and quiet reflection. Our Quaker mission also compels us to create a diverse and inclusive community; we seek a person who will thrive and contribute to such a community, both within and beyond the walls of the school.

San Francisco Friends School (SFFS) seeks a passionate and creative interim Middle School Art Teacher to inspire students in grades 5–8 through hands-on learning, innovation, and artistic expression. The ideal candidate brings a deep understanding of a wide range of perspectives, art forms, ideas, and techniques used by a variety of cultures. They should demonstrate a commitment to fostering curiosity, collaboration, and resilience in a diverse learning community.

Candidates should have a strong art education background in a variety of media and be willing to expand their knowledge. Teachers engage in regular collaboration, curriculum development, and pedagogical reflection with their peers and collaborate with colleagues across subjects to support interdisciplinary projects.

Rooted in Quaker values of community, equity, and reflection, the teacher will also cultivate a respectful and inclusive classroom culture that nurtures creativity, critical thinking, and student voice. The position calls for someone who is not only skilled in understanding art and art education but also deeply student-centered, flexible, and enthusiastic about engaging middle schoolers in meaningful, imaginative work.

Art Department Responsibilities:

• Follow a pre-created curriculum with flexibility for some lesson planning in response to student progress.
• Design and deliver engaging lessons in various media (drawing, painting, digital art, ceramics, sculpture) for middle school students in grades 5-8.
• Foster a classroom culture that is welcoming, inclusive, and affirming of all students’ identities and backgrounds.
• Integrate culturally responsive pedagogy and reflect on teaching practice through the lens of equity and justice.

• Teach foundational art skills, color theory, composition, art history, and visual literacy.
• Inspire imagination, critical thinking, and self-expression through hands-on projects.
• Provide constructive feedback, assess artistic growth, and manage student portfolios.
• Manage art gallery spaces in conjunction with the LS art teacher.
• Write mid-term checklists for all students and final narratives for all students.

• Serve as a middle school co-advisor, supporting a small group of students academically, socially, and emotionally throughout the school year. Facilitate three weekly advisory meetings, student-led conferences, and family communication, fostering a strong sense of belonging and a growth mindset.
• Collaborate with fellow middle school teachers to plan interdisciplinary units and projects that integrate maker-centered learning across subjects.
• Support and participate in school-wide events, service learning, and community-building activities and events.
• Contribute to the life of the middle school through participation in team meetings and professional development.
• Foster a classroom culture that is welcoming, inclusive, and affirming of all students’ identities and backgrounds.
• Integrate culturally responsive pedagogy and reflect on teaching practice through the lens of equity and justice.
• Attend the annual Field Studies overnight program.

• Bachelor’s Degree or higher, in art or related field preferred.
• Late elementary, middle…