Arts Specialist/Enrichment Teacher

Position Overview The Academy for Integrated Arts (AFIA) seeks a specialist/enrichment teacher (music, dance, movement, theater arts, physical education, or related field) who believes learning should be engaging, meaningful, and joyful. This teacher will design rich, student-centered learning experiences where inquiry, creativity, and the arts deepen students’ understanding and expression. The ideal candidate is committed to helping every child thrive academically and socially and believes that strong relationships, curiosity, and high expectations are essential to student success. About the Academy for Integrated Arts The Academy for Integrated Arts (AFIA) is an innovative public charter school in Kansas City where the arts are intentionally integrated into the core curriculum as a meaningful part of daily learning. At AFIA, the arts serve as a catalyst for curiosity, creativity, academic achievement, and student confidence. Instruction is grounded in constructivist philosophy and developmentally appropriate practice. Students learn through inquiry, project-based experiences, and interdisciplinary learning that promotes deep thinking and authentic engagement. AFIA is a collaborative learning community where teachers are reflective practitioners, leaders, and active participants in ongoing professional learning. Learn more by visiting www.afiakc.org. Why Teachers Choose AFIA Teachers at AFIA value: A collaborative and supportive staff culture Strong instructional coaching and job-embedded professional development Opportunities for teacher leadership and innovation A school community that values creativity, inquiry, and student voice The opportunity to integrate the arts into meaningful learning experiences Teachers at AFIA: Demonstrate a commitment to serving students who have been historically underserved Believe in the power of student-centered learning to transform students’ lives Create inclusive environments where all students and families feel a strong sense of belonging Implement inquiry-based and constructivist instructional practices Value families as essential partners in student success Collaborate effectively and engage in continuous professional growth Essential Responsibilities The arts specialist/enrichment teacher will: Plan and deliver engaging, arts-focused instruction aligned to their discipline Design creative, student-centered learning experiences that foster expression, collaboration, and critical thinking Integrate their art form into interdisciplinary and project learning in partnership with classroom teachers Facilitate a learning environment where students explore, create, perform, and reflect Support students in setting goals and taking ownership of their learning Use assessment and observation to inform instruction and support student growth Build a positive classroom community and support student behavior effectively Maintain strong communication and relationships with students and families Provide timely and meaningful feedback on student progress Collaborate with classroom teachers, arts specialists, and community partners Participate actively in professional learning, reflection, and coaching What Success Looks Like in This Role In this role, a successful AFIA specialist teacher: Creates a joyful, engaging space where students actively create, perform, and think deeply Designs arts experiences that enhance student learning, confidence, and self-expression Builds strong relationships with students and families Integrates the arts meaningfully into the broader school experience Uses reflection and feedback to continually strengthen their practice Contributes to a positive, collaborative school culture Qualifications Bachelor’s degree required Strong communication and collaboration skills Commitment to equity, inclusion, and culturally responsive teaching Preferred Qualifications Missouri certification in a relevant area (Music, Theater, Dance, Elementary Education, or related field), or eligibility to obtain certification Preferred Experience Experience teaching in an arts-based discipline (music, theater, dance, movement, etc.) Experience integrating the arts across content areas Experience working in diverse or urban school communities Familiarity with restorative practices or responsive classroom approaches Salary and Benefits Minimum starting salary for certified first-year teachers: $50,500 Medical benefits Kansas City Public School Retirement System (KCPSRS) participation Ongoing, job-embedded professional development and coaching Opportunities for collaboration and teacher leadership Professional learning in arts integration and interdisciplinary teaching Start Date If available: December 1, 2026 We are also seeking candidates for the 2027 - 2028 school year (August 1, 2027 start date) Application Process Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. To apply, submit: Resume Brief cover letter Three professional references Questions about the position may be directed to:Tricia DeGraff, Executive Directortricia.degraff@afiakc.org