- You will learn the clear steps to qualify and apply for art teaching roles from certification to classroom practice
- You will build a portfolio, lesson plans, and assessment examples that show your teaching ability
- You will get practical ways to gain experience, network, and find openings in schools and community programs
- You will learn common mistakes to avoid and pro tips that speed up hiring and classroom readiness
This guide explains how to become a art teacher, from choosing the right education path to landing your first classroom job. You will get step-by-step actions, concrete examples, and realistic expectations so you can move forward with confidence.
Step-by-Step Guide
Choose your teaching path and grade level
Decide whether you want to teach elementary, middle, high school, or adult education, because each path has different certification and classroom needs. Choosing early helps you pick relevant coursework and student teaching placements that match your goals.
Research local certification rules and common hiring preferences in your area, because states and districts set different requirements. Look up your state education department website for licensure steps, and check job listings to see preferred degrees and experience.
Expect to refine your choice after some classroom exposure, and be flexible if you start in one setting and later move to another. Many teachers begin in substitute or after-school roles to confirm which age group fits their style.
- Search three local school district job postings to see which grade levels hire most often for art teachers.
- Contact a district HR office or state education website to download the official certification checklist for your area.
- Volunteer for one semester in two different grade bands to compare classroom management and curriculum differences.
Earn a relevant degree and take key art education courses
Enroll in a bachelor's degree in art education, art, or a related field, because most K-12 positions require a teaching degree or subject major plus teacher preparation. Choose programs that include classroom management, child development, and methods for teaching art skills.
If your undergraduate degree is in studio art rather than education, add a teacher preparation program or a post-baccalaureate certification to meet licensure requirements. Find programs that offer student teaching placements and mentorship, since supervised practice is often required.
While you study, build a portfolio of both artwork and lesson samples, and document classroom observations. Save syllabi and sample assessments, because hiring teams want to see how you plan and measure student learning.
- If you already have a degree, look for post-baccalaureate teacher certification or an alternative route program in your state.
- Take at least one course in adolescent psychology and one in classroom assessment to strengthen your resume.
- Keep digital copies of projects and lesson plans organized by grade level for easy sharing during interviews.
Complete student teaching and earn certification
Student teaching gives you hands-on experience under a mentor teacher, and it is usually a licensure requirement. Treat student teaching like a job, practice lesson delivery, run assessments, and request feedback on classroom routines and art safety.
Apply for your state’s teacher certification after finishing required coursework and student teaching hours, and prepare for any licensure exams or fingerprint checks your state requires. Contact your school of education advisor for application deadlines and required forms to avoid delays.
Expect paperwork and deadlines, so track requirements on a calendar and follow up early if transcripts or recommendations are missing. Missing a single document can push your certification timeline back by months.
- Create a checklist of student teaching requirements and certificate application steps with deadlines to avoid last-minute problems.
- Ask your mentor teacher for written feedback examples you can use in job applications and interviews.
- Schedule fingerprinting and background checks early, since processing times vary by state.
Build a teaching portfolio and classroom-ready materials
Assemble a clear portfolio that includes curated student work samples, your own artwork, sample lesson plans, and assessment rubrics to show how you measure learning. Use a simple website or PDF portfolio that is easy to share, and label items by grade level and learning objective.
Create at least three complete lesson plans with objectives, materials list, step-by-step procedures, and assessment criteria so you can present concrete examples in interviews. Include classroom management strategies, adaptations for diverse learners, and a sample unit outline to show your planning skills.
Avoid heavy, hard-to-open files or complex layouts that reviewers cannot read quickly. Keep file names clear, for example "Grade7_Collage_Lesson.
pdf" and include a one-page teaching philosophy at the front.
- Use a free website builder or a single PDF under 10MB to keep your portfolio easy to open during interviews.
- Label each sample with the learning goal and what student success looked like for that lesson.
- Include one example of an assessment and the criteria you used so employers see how you grade art projects fairly.
Gain experience, apply, and prepare for interviews
Start with substitute teaching, after-school programs, community centers, or tutoring to get classroom hours and references while you search for full-time roles. These roles help you practice lesson delivery and classroom management and they show employers you can run a class independently.
When applying, tailor your resume and cover letter to each posting, highlight your certification status, and attach your portfolio link. Prepare for interviews by practicing short demo lessons, preparing answers about classroom management, and bringing examples of student work and assessments to discuss.
Follow up within one week of interviews with a thank-you note that references the lesson you discussed and your enthusiasm for the role. If you get a rejection, ask for feedback and use it to improve your next application or interview.
- Track every application in a simple spreadsheet with columns for school name, date applied, contact person, and follow-up date.
- Practice a five-minute demo lesson you can adapt to any grade level and bring necessary materials to show you are prepared.
- Request at least two references from cooperating teachers or program supervisors who can speak to your classroom skills.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Pro Tips from Experts
Record a short video demo of you teaching a mini-lesson and include it in your portfolio so hiring teams can see your voice and classroom presence.
Join a local art teachers association or online group to find job leads, share resources, and learn what schools in your area value.
Prepare a one-page classroom setup plan with seating, materials storage, and safety rules to show you can manage space from day one.
Becoming an art teacher is a step-by-step process that combines education, supervised practice, and careful presentation of your teaching skills. Follow these steps, keep your portfolio current, and gain varied classroom experience to improve your chances of landing a role.
Start one action today, even a small one like contacting your state licensure office or drafting a single lesson plan.
Step-by-step guide to becoming an art teacher
1.
- •Decide whether you want to teach elementary, middle, high school, or community/after-school art. Each setting requires different classroom management skills and curriculum depth. For example, K–5 emphasizes process and motor skills while high school requires portfolio prep and art history.
- •Success indicator: a clear target job listing you can aim for.
- •Pitfall: trying to be all things to all grades—focus early to streamline coursework and certification.
2.
- •Enroll in a program that includes studio courses (drawing, painting, digital media), pedagogy classes, and supervised student teaching. Aim for 120–140 credits depending on your state.
- •Success indicator: maintain a GPA ≥3.0 if you want competitive placements.
- •Pitfall: skipping teaching methods classes—these prepare you for classroom realities.
3.
- •Arrange placement through your college. Teach one full unit and receive formal observations from your mentor teacher and university supervisor.
- •Success indicator: positive evaluation and a portfolio of lesson plans and student work samples.
- •Pitfall: poor communication with mentor—set weekly check-ins and ask for concrete feedback.
4.
- •Register and prepare for state-required tests (e.g., Praxis Art: Content Knowledge). Use official practice tests and flashcards; target 6–8 hours/week of study.
- •Success indicator: passing score on first or second attempt.
- •Pitfall: underestimating art history questions—review timelines and major movements (Renaissance, Impressionism, Modernism).
5.
- •Submit transcripts, exam scores, and fingerprinting. Track application status online and follow up within two weeks if delayed.
- •Success indicator: receipt of provisional or standard license.
- •Pitfall: missing documents—keep a checklist and digital copies.
6.
- •Include 6–8 lesson plans, student assessment samples, classroom photos, and 10–15 images of your own art. Quantify results (e.g., increased student engagement by 40% measured via surveys).
- •Success indicator: interview invitations.
- •Pitfall: low-quality photos—use natural light or a scanner.
7.
- •Target 10–20 positions; tailor resumes and cover letters to each district. Prepare a 15-minute sample lesson and a 5-minute portfolio talk.
- •Success indicator: job offer or multiple interviews.
- •Pitfall: generic application materials—reference district initiatives and standards.
8.
- •Set measurable goals (improve student drawing skills by X% via pre/post assessments). Attend 2–3 professional development workshops per year.
- •Success indicator: positive year-end evaluation and retention.
- •Pitfall: burnout—build a support network and block weekly planning time.
9.
- •Consider a Master’s in Art Education, National Board Certification, or endorsements in special education. These can increase salary by 5–15% and improve career stability.
- •Success indicator: salary bump or promotion to lead teacher.
Actionable takeaway: follow this sequence, set specific deadlines for each step, and document progress with a checklist and sample artifacts to streamline licensure and hiring.
Expert tips and pro strategies
1.
- •Use a simple website (Wix, Behance) and organize by medium and grade level. Include captions: objective, age group, time, and assessment outcome.
2.
- •Create 4-point rubrics for technique, creativity, effort, and craft. They save grading time and show growth: use pre/post rubric scores to report a 30–50% skills gain.
3.
- •Scale complexity: K–2 focuses on process, 3–5 adds compositional rules, 6–8 introduces critique. This saves prep time and ensures vertical alignment.
4.
- •Use a phone with consistent lighting and a date-stamped folder. You’ll need images for parent conferences and assessments.
5.
- •Arrange 1–2 guest artist visits per year or gallery field trips; grants often cover costs. This increases community support and curriculum relevance.
6.
- •Align one major project per term to state standards, then add a creative extension for advanced students to differentiate.
7.
- •Recycle cardboard, magazine pages, and household items for mixed-media units—reduces budget by 30–60% while encouraging sustainability.
8.
- •Record three behavior metrics weekly (on-task %, transitions under 3 minutes, materials returned). Small data sets show improvement after interventions.
9.
- •Knowing crop, exposure, and color correction in free tools (GIMP or Photopea) makes your portfolio photos look professional.
Actionable takeaway: adopt two of these tips this semester—one that saves prep time and one that improves student outcomes.
Common challenges and how to overcome them
1.
- •Why: Art supplies are often low priority in school budgets.
- •Recognize: fewer than two supply orders approved per year or a $100 annual art budget.
- •Fix: apply for small grants ($250–$2,500) from organizations like DonorsChoose or local arts councils; run one fundraiser per term selling student prints.
- •Preventive: create a one-page grant template and maintain a wish list for donors.
2.
- •Why: wide range of motor skills and attention spans.
- •Recognize: frequent off-task behavior and incomplete projects.
- •Fix: tiered assignments and stations with clear 10-minute routines; offer extension tasks for advanced learners.
- •Preventive: prep materials in labeled bins and use visual timers.
3.
- •Why: administrators prioritize tested subjects.
- •Recognize: infrequent observation or funding cuts.
- •Fix: present quarterly data showing student growth and cross-curricular links (e.g., history lessons with art projects).
- •Preventive: invite administrators to a student exhibition each year.
4.
- •Why: short class periods (30–45 minutes).
- •Recognize: projects left unfinished after several sessions.
- •Fix: break projects into 15–20 minute mini-lessons and assign clear take-home steps when feasible.
- •Preventive: choose low-dry-time media (tempera vs. oil) and use drying racks.
5.
- •Why: subjective judgments can feel unfair.
- •Recognize: student complaints about grades.
- •Fix: use transparent rubrics and student self-assessment checklists.
- •Preventive: model quality examples and conduct mid-project critiques.
6.
- •Why: art materials can trigger reactions or hazards.
- •Recognize: student complaints, rashes, or smells.
- •Fix: keep a list of safe substitutes (e.g., non-toxic adhesives) and post MSDS for materials.
- •Preventive: collect health/allergy info at the start of the year and store materials safely.
Actionable takeaway: choose one common challenge on this list and implement its preventive measure before the next term.
Real-world examples of successful art teachers
Example 1 — Urban middle school implements portfolio program (Case: Lincoln MS)
- •Situation: Lincoln Middle School had low engagement in art; class sizes of 28, budget $150/year.
- •Approach: The art teacher created a semester-long portfolio system. Students completed six projects, each with a rubric and a 90-second video reflection. The teacher secured a $1,200 DonorsChoose grant to buy basic supplies and a tablet for documenting work.
- •Challenges: Time constraints—class periods were 40 minutes. The teacher converted one project into a three-part cycle: sketch, in-class execution, home photo submission.
- •Results: Portfolio completion rate rose from 55% to 92% in one year. Student self-reported interest in art increased from 34% to 68% on end-of-year surveys. Two students advanced to district art shows.
Example 2 — Rural elementary school reduces supply costs and increases parent involvement (Case: Pine Valley Elementary)
- •Situation: Rural K–5 school with 180 students and no dedicated art budget.
- •Approach: The teacher launched a monthly "Family Art Night" where families brought recyclable materials; the school charged $2 per family to cover basic consumables. The teacher created a materials rotation system and a volunteer sign-up for prep duties.
- •Challenges: Transportation for families and inconsistent attendance. The teacher offered two sessions—early evening and Saturday morning—and partnered with the PTA to provide free bus passes for five families.
- •Results: Supply budget increased by $900 annually from event fees and donations. Parent volunteer hours rose from 12 to 120 per year. Student attendance in art electives rose 25%.
Example 3 — High school teacher integrates community artists for AP portfolio support (Case: Westbrook High)
- •Situation: AP Studio Art students lacked professional critique opportunities; only 40% passed the AP portfolio review.
- •Approach: The teacher arranged a weekend workshop series with three local artists; students received targeted feedback and technical demos. The school covered artist stipends using a $2,000 local arts grant.
- •Challenges: Scheduling conflicts and limited space. The teacher limited workshops to 12 students per session and used the community center on Saturdays.
- •Results: AP portfolio pass rate increased from 40% to 78% the next exam cycle. Student college art program acceptances rose by 30%.
Actionable takeaway: identify one successful element from these cases—portfolio system, family nights, or community workshops—and pilot it in your classroom this term.
Essential tools and resources for art teachers
1.
- •Options: Wix (free tier, paid from $16/month), Behance (free). Use for showcasing teacher work and student highlights. Limitation: free plans include platform branding.
2.
- •Resource: Teachers Pay Teachers and Google Docs templates (many free). Use a standard 4-point rubric template to speed grading.
3.
- •Options: Photopea (free), GIMP (free), Adobe Lightroom (subscription ~$9.99/month). Use to crop and color-correct student artwork for portfolios.
4.
- •Options: DonorsChoose (free to apply), GoFundMe (fees apply). Use for classroom supplies; typical successful small campaigns raise $300–$1,500.
5.
- •Options: ClassDojo (free basic), Google Classroom (free). Use for assignments, parent communication, and quick behavior tracking.
6.
- •Options: Blick Art Materials, Discount School Supply. Buy in bulk; expect 20–35% savings over retail if you shop sales and educator discounts.
7.
- •Options: National Art Education Association (NAEA) membership (~$75/year student, ~$165 professional). Use for standards, conferences, and networking.
8.
- •Options: Loom (free tier), Zoom (free basic). Use to record mini-lessons or portfolio walkthroughs for remote parents and substitutes.
Actionable takeaway: pick two free tools to implement this month—one for digital portfolios and one for classroom organization—and document time saved after four weeks.