An art teacher plays a significant role in nurturing the creative abilities of children and young adults. Art education enhances cognitive and emotional development, boosts self-esteem, and helps students improve their academic performance. If you’re passionate about art and want to make a difference in the lives of students, becoming an art teacher might be the perfect career for you.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the qualifications, roles and responsibilities, and salary expectations of an art teacher. We will also discuss the steps you need to take to become an art teacher and answer some of the most frequently asked questions about this rewarding career.
What is an Art Teacher?
An art teacher is a licensed professional who instructs students in various art forms such as painting, drawing, sculpture, print-making, and other mediums. Art teachers inspire creativity and imagination in their students while teaching them the technical skills necessary to create art. They help students understand and appreciate the value of art and its impact on society.
As an art teacher, you will work with children and young adults of different ages and skill levels, from kindergarten through high school. You will develop lesson plans that align with the curriculum and use a variety of teaching methods to engage students in the learning process. You will also evaluate their progress and provide feedback and support.
What is the Role and Qualities of an Art Teacher?
Art teachers have a critical role in shaping the artistic abilities and perspectives of their students. However, to succeed in this profession, you need more than just artistic skills. Here are some essential qualities that an excellent art teacher should possess:
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Passion and enthusiasm for art and teaching: As an art teacher, you should have a genuine love for art and the desire to share your knowledge and skills with others. Your passion for teaching will motivate your students and create a positive learning environment.
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Creativity and innovativeness: Art teachers should have a creative mindset to come up with new ideas and teaching methods that can engage students and stimulate their creativity.
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Good communication skills: Effective communication is crucial when teaching art. Art teachers should be able to articulate complex concepts and techniques clearly and use appropriate language to motivate and encourage students.
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Patience and empathy: Art teachers will work with students of different ages, backgrounds, and skill levels. It’s essential to be patient and empathetic to create a supportive environment for all students.
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Excellent organizational skills: Art teachers should be able to plan and manage their classes effectively, including scheduling lessons, setting up materials and equipment, and keeping track of students’ progress.
How Do I Start as an Art Teacher?
To start your career as an art teacher, you need to follow these steps:
Step 1: Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree
Most states require art teachers in public schools to have at least a Bachelor’s degree in Art Education or a related field such as Fine Arts or Visual Arts. Private schools may have different requirements.
During your degree program, you will learn the fundamentals of art, art history, and pedagogy. You will also complete a student-teaching program in an accredited school to gain practical teaching experience.
Step 2: Obtain a Teaching License
To become a licensed art teacher, you need to meet your state’s licensing requirements. These can vary from state to state, but they usually include passing a background check, completing a teacher preparation program, and passing a certification exam.
You can obtain a teaching certificate in the state where you plan to teach or obtain a national certification from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.
Step 3: Gain Work Experience
After obtaining your teaching license, you can start applying for art teacher positions. You can look for job openings in local schools, job fairs, or online job websites.
You can also gain work experience through volunteering in schools or galleries, attending professional development workshops, or participating in art education organizations.
Step 4: Advance Your Career
As you gain work experience, you can consider advancing your career by obtaining a Master’s degree in Art Education or a related field. A higher degree can increase your opportunities for career advancement and higher salaries.
How to Become an Art Teacher without a Degree?
If you have a passion for art but don’t hold a Bachelor’s degree, you can still become an art teacher. Some states offer alternative routes to licensure for individuals with a degree in a non-teaching field.
Alternative routes to licensure usually require completing a teacher preparation program and passing a certification exam. Some programs offer online coursework, allowing you to complete the program while working full-time.
What Degree do you Need to be an Art Teacher?
Most states require art teachers in public schools to have at least a Bachelor’s degree in Art Education or a related field such as Fine Arts or Visual Arts. Private schools may have different requirements.
A Bachelor’s degree in Art Education or a related field will provide you with the necessary foundational knowledge and skills in art and teaching to obtain a teaching license.
How to Become an Art Teacher Online?
Several universities offer online degree programs in Art Education or related fields. Online programs allow you to complete your degree from the comfort of your home while maintaining your work and family responsibilities.
Online programs offer the same quality of education as traditional programs. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the program is accredited and meets your state’s licensing requirements.
What Would You Do as an Art Teacher?
As an art teacher, you will develop lesson plans that align with the curriculum and use a variety of teaching methods to engage students in the learning process. You will teach fundamental skills such as color theory and composition and encourage students to experiment with different art forms.
You will also provide feedback and support to help students improve their work and gain confidence in their abilities. Additionally, you will organize visual art exhibits and displays to showcase your students’ work and create opportunities for them to express themselves.
How to Become an Art Teacher in California?
To become an art teacher in California, you need to meet the state’s teacher certification requirements, which include:
- A Bachelor’s degree in Art Education or a related field
- A state-approved teacher preparation program
- A passing score on the California Basic Education Skills Test (CBEST)
- A passing score on the California Subject Examination for Teachers (CSET)
After meeting the teaching certification requirements, you can apply for an initial teaching license in California.
What is an Art Teacher Called in College?
In college, an art teacher is usually referred to as an Art Professor or an Art Instructor. They teach college-level art courses and work with students pursuing bachelor’s or master’s degrees in visual arts.
Art Teacher Salary
The art teacher’s salary depends on several factors, such as their educational qualifications, experience, and location. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for preschool, kindergarten, and elementary school teachers was $60,660 as of May 2020. The median annual wage for high school teachers was $62,870.
Conclusion
Becoming an art teacher is a rewarding career that allows you to inspire creativity and imagination in your students. To become an art teacher, you need to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Art Education or a related field, obtain a teaching license, gain relevant work experience, and advance your career through ongoing education.
An art teacher’s role and qualities go beyond artistic skills and include passion, communication skills, creativity, patience, empathy, and organizational skills. With the right credentials and dedication, you can make a positive impact on the lives of your students and contribute to society’s artistic and cultural development.