Teachers at TREE Academy are not just educators, but also passionate, and dedicated members of the innovative TREE learning community. We value and support all of the crucial roles each teacher fills in guiding students on their educational journey, embodying our unique philosophy in a supportive and caring environment. TREE Academy is seeking inspired educators who will engage with our students in a progressive, constructivist manner, infusing rigor and joy into the curriculum. We center student-driven experiential learning, engaged with the community and in social justice, through our core and elective courses. Our teachers are learners, embracing a culture of growth and collaboration in exploring how to best cultivate development and mastery of content and durable skills across and between disciplines.  Our community is inclusive in philosophy AND practice - our current faculty is 60% BIPOC!

We are currently seeking a versatile and inspiring Visual & Performing Arts Teacher to grow our high school arts program. This position prioritizes Visual Arts instruction (including but not limited to drawing, painting, sculpture, digital art, and mixed media) with the potential to expand into Performing Arts (such as theater, performance, movement, or music) based on the candidate’s background and interests.

Position Overview:

The Visual & Performing Arts Teacher will develop and teach engaging, project-based visual arts courses for middle and high school students. TREE values student-led creativity, process over product, and interdisciplinary connections—so we’re looking for an educator who sees art as both a personal and collective tool for expression, exploration, and social engagement.

In addition to visual arts, the teacher may offer electives in areas such as theater, performance art, spoken word, or stagecraft, and will collaborate with other faculty on integrated projects that connect art to humanities, social justice, and contemporary issues. The art studio will be blended as a makerspace, so experience running a makerspace and utilizing makerspace technologies will broaden the opportunities.

Responsibilities:

• Teach a range of visual arts classes to middle and high school students
• Design creative, student-centered projects that emphasize both technique and experimentation
• Support students in developing individual and collaborative artistic voices
• Integrate arts education with TREE’s core academic and social-emotional learning values
• Coordinate exhibitions, performances, or showcases of student work
• Maintain a safe, inclusive, and well-organized studio environment
• Stay current with contemporary art practices and educational approaches
• Collaborate with colleagues on interdisciplinary units and school-wide events
• Integrate TREE values—creativity, self-directed learning, social responsibility—into the curriculum
• Continuously evolve and expand the arts program based on student interest and school vision
• Serve as a positive role model, upholding the mission and values of TREE Academy.
• Manage classroom behavior using restorative practices and contribute to maintaining a respectful and inclusive atmosphere
• Maintain clear communication with students, families, and colleagues to support student success
• Participate in professional development and faculty meetings to continuously improve teaching practices
• Attend Open Houses and other school events as needed to engage with the school community

Qualifications:

• Professional or teaching experience in visual arts
• Passion for working with adolescents in creative, flexible learning environments
• Ability to teach both foundational and advanced art-making techniques
• Interest or experience in performing arts instruction (theater, movement, etc.) is a plus
• Strong classroom management and project planning skills
• Commitment to TREE’s educational philosophy and values
• Experience working with diverse learners, including gifted and neurodiverse students
• Teaching credential or equivalent experience in youth arts instruction preferred
• Experience teaching culinary arts or professional culinary/kitchen experience
• Passion for food education, sustainability, and creative learning environments
• Strong communication, organizational, and classroom management skills
• Commitment to TREE’s educational philosophy and student-centered approach
• Passion for fostering authentic learning experiences for students
• Dedication to the whole-person development of young people, including enthusiasm for positive identity development and diversity, equity, and inclusion work
• Excellent interpersonal skills, including a high degree of cultural competency
• Commitment to anti-bias practices in the classroom
• Proficient computer skills with Google Drive and Applications
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited College or University (Master’s degree preferred) 
• Teaching credential (preferred but not required)

Bonus Qualifications:

• Background in community-based arts, arts integration, or social practice
• Familiarity with digital arts, photography, or new media
• Experience running a Makerspace
• Experience directing student performances or managing art events
• Experience in progressive, competency-based, and experiential education 
• Experience working with diverse learners, including gifted and neurodiverse students
• Experience developing partnerships with local businesses or organizations

About TREE Academy

Located in the heart of West Hollywood, California, TREE Academy is a progressive, student-centered school that emphasizes experiential learning, creativity, individuality, and interdisciplinary thinking. We nurture academic excellence and personal growth in a flexible, inclusive environment where every student’s passions and strengths are celebrated. TREE Academy is dedicated to nurturing trusting collaborative relationships, fostering discovery, and supporting authenticity in every student. We recognize the individuality of each student and have designed our school to provide a distinctive learning experience that prioritizes personal growth and academic excellence. Our small class sizes, averaging 10 students, allow for personalized attention that builds trust and cultivates joy in learning. We provide a balanced approach to homework, and our two-on-one tutoring for every student ensures both academic rigor and tailored support. Our collaborative learning atmosphere enables students to explore their interests, passions, and identities, fostering lives enriched with purpose. We empower students to embrace their individuality while contributing positively to society.

Connections working at TREE Academy