Visual Arts Instructor

About Us

The Women’s Housing and Economic Development Corporation (WHEDco) is a community development organization founded on the radically simple idea that all people deserve to live in healthy, vibrant communities. We build award-winning, sustainable, affordable homes – but our work is not over when our buildings are complete. WHEDco believes that to be successful, affordable housing must be anchored in strong communities of which residents can be proud. WHEDco’s mission is to create and bridge access in the South Bronx to resources that support thriving neighborhoods – from stable, affordable housing to high-quality early childhood and school-age youth education programs, comprehensive family and community services, business and entrepreneur assistance, and cultural programming.

Job Summary

In collaboration with the Program Director, School Principal and other key stakeholders, the Visual Arts Instructor will lead the planning, development, and implementation of the arts program of the WHEDco Extended School Day Program at The Highbridge Green School with special attention to activities that will promote literacy, social justice understanding and cultural competencies.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop and implement the visual arts program for students in grades 6 to 8, offering participants opportunities to develop an interest and mastery.
• Lead, supervise and provide guidance to program participants in that elective four (4) times per week.
• Create lesson plans and select necessary supplies.
• Attend all required staff/planning meetings.
• Take on special assignments which pertain to the goals and objectives of the extended day program.
• Maintain observation and incident logs for group.
• Work closely with our Education Coordinator for school wide events, galleries and showcases.

Qualifications

• Minimum of two years professional experience working with children in a classroom, after school, or in a community-based environment leading and organizing activities. Substantial volunteer work will be considered.
• Demonstrated interest in the field of education, child development or literacy preferred.
• Able to work late afternoons and/or evenings.
• Current, active college enrollment or college degree preferred.
• Well-organized, able to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Previous experience in low-income communities.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus.