We are seeking a passionate, culturally responsive School Year Art Teacher to design and deliver high-quality arts instruction for the Department of Youth Services (DYS) Education Initiative. Be the steady creative outlet our students count on. As a full-time Art Teacher, you will establish a year-round studio sanctuary where justice-involved youth can process their worlds, discover tangible talents through visual arts or theatre.
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True Connection: Class sizes are small, allowing you to get to know your students, understand their education plans, and personalize their learning.
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Distraction-Free Environments: Students do not have cell phones. This unique aspect allows for deep focus, genuine human connection, and immersive learning time.
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Mission-Driven Collaboration: You will work alongside a dedicated site team of educators and human services professionals to create a holistic, supportive ecosystem for youth.
As a School Year Art Teacher, you will create a vibrant, safe, and balanced studio environment where every student feels seen and capable of growth.
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Inspire & Instruct: Build comprehensive lessons and mini-units that meet students where they are, tapping into their unique backgrounds, learning styles, and emotional needs to foster a genuine, long-term love for learning.
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Personalize the Experience: Meet students where they are. Use their educational backgrounds, learning styles, and goals to co-plan and adapt your instruction.
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Cultivate a Positive Climate: Establish high but achievable expectations, using proactive classroom management rooted in empathy, flexibility, and mutual respect.
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Integrate Blended Learning: Curate digital portfolios and learning experiences using Google Workspace, Google Classroom, and supportive educational software.
You are an educator who thrives in non-traditional settings. You have a deep positive regard for youth placed at-risk, an adaptable mindset, and the emotional resilience required to navigate fast-paced, secure residential facilities.
Required Qualifications
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A firm belief in a growth mindset—for your students and yourself.
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Education: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
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Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to connect across diverse backgrounds and cultures.
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Mobility: A valid driver’s license and reliable transportation to move between locations and attend statewide trainings or meetings.
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Skills: Knowledge of various art techniques and mediums, and the ability to inspire and motivate students to explore their artistic talents.
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Safety & Awareness: Ability to maintain keen situational awareness and navigate physically demanding, locked environments with a calm, productive focus.
Preferred Qualifications
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Current Massachusetts secondary teacher licensure in Visual Art (5-12) or Theatre (All Levels).
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Master’s Degree in Education or the Arts.
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Sheltered English Immersion (SEI) Endorsement.
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Proven success teaching and engaging adolescents who have experienced trauma or systemic barriers.
Work Conditions
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Ability to handle interruptions and maintain productivity.
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Ability to work with diverse personalities.
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Skilled in working both independently and collaboratively.
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May be subject to locked settings where the threat of verbal abuse and physical violence exists. Possible exposure to communicable diseases.
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Employees are expected to follow CES Workplace Safety Standards and DYS Workplace Safety Standards.
Terms of Employment
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Full-time, 185 day contract, CES/DYS School Calendar
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Monday - Friday, 8 hours/day
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Salary Range: $59,203 to $81,804.
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Starting salary will depend on level of licensure, education and experience.
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Teachers are part of a bargaining unit represented by SEIU 509.
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Benefits available as outlined in the CES Employee Handbook
We are looking for both experienced and aspiring teachers who are ready to make a tangible difference in the lives of at-risk youth. If this sounds like you, fill out your application today!
CES is an equal opportunity employer and is particularly interested in candidates from a diverse range of cultural, ethnic, and racial backgrounds. We are especially interested in candidates whose backgrounds are well-suited to understanding and addressing the needs of the diverse student population we serve.
