Middle School Art Teacher

Starting in the 2026-2027 Academic Year

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 at www.sffriendsschool.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.

Job Summary

San Francisco Friends School (SFFS) seeks a passionate and creative 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 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.

Responsibilities:

Art Department Responsibilities

• 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 

Duties and Responsibilities Outside of the Department

• Serve as a middle school 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 annual Field Studies overnight program

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree or higher, in art or related field preferred 
• Late elementary, middle school, or early high school teaching experience and love and appreciation for middle school
• Knowledge of current pedagogy and facility with hands-on and project-based instruction
• Alignment with the school’s mission and openness to Quaker philosophy
• Highly collaborative and creative team player
• A demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and an ability to work with and support a diverse population of students and families.
• Patience, empathy, adaptability, and ability to work with students, parents, and faculty.

Preferred Qualities:

• Teaching credential or Master’s Degree
• Advanced degree in art or art education
• Connections to/knowledge of  local artists and arts organizations preferable
• Knowledge of art-based technology and its incorporation into arts education preferable
• Knowledge of various traditional and digital art media and techniques
• Has experience working with students with learning differences and has the ability to work and differentiate within the classroom
• Language skills in Spanish 

Compensation and Benefit Summary: 

Competitive, exempt salary based on experience and qualifications. Excellent benefits are offered including medical, dental, vision, life insurance and matching 403(b). 

$2,886 to $6,190 per semi-monthly pay period for 24 pay periods per year ($69,250 to $148,580 annually). Placement on scale based on relevant teaching experience.This salary scale reflects the 25-26 school year and will be adjusted accordingly for the 26-27 school year.

EEO Commitment: 

The San Francisco Friends School is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, age, military or veteran status, marital status or any other category protected by law. The school also makes reasonable accommodations for qualified applicants with disabilities; candidates who need accommodations in order to apply for this position should request an accommodation as part of the submission of interest.

Employment Clearances required:

• SB 848 Authorization and Reference Checking
• Livescan Background
• US Employment Eligibility
• TB Clearance certificate

Application Deadline: Wednesday, January 7th, 2026