Apprenticeship Program Description

The Teaching Artist Apprenticeship Program equips teaching artists to create a learning environment that is trauma-informed and provides equitable opportunities for growth academically, artistically, and socio-emotionally in a community setting.

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Teaching Artists leading the Artsee curriculum are expected to possess at least some experience teaching and leading creative explorations. Prior to implementing the curriculum, teaching artists are required to participate in 20 hours of training. Training topics include biological brain development and the effects of adversity on that development; classroom management techniques that encourage compassionate discipline and offer opportunities for positive growth; how to employ creative explorations for academic, social, and emotional skill building; and how social and emotional skills can positively impact academic performance, increase prosocial behaviors, reduce emotional distress, and build resilience. Semi-monthly check-ins provide Teaching Artists with continued support and opportunities to workshop behavior challenges and creative ideas with their cohort and trainer.

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Learning Opportunities:

• Gain experience teaching social, emotional, and academic skills through arts explorations

• Receive mentorship and professional development throughout the program year

• Learn best practices in trauma-informed, arts-based programming

• Understand brain-based learning and teaching methods

• Opportunity to renew contract for the following program year

 

Responsibilities:

• Promote a safe, fun, and engaging environment for all students

• Attend mandatory training sessions, apprentice team professional development meetings, and monthly individual check-ins

• Using provided lesson plans, lead two classes per week for up to 10 students

• Create and lead weekly Creative Explorations activities inspired by the monthly theme

• Complete student assessments

• Reflect upon teaching and student interaction experiences and be prepared to discuss and invite feedback

• Assist with program mealtime preparation, set up, and clean up

• Provide support to students with program activities

• Respond compassionately and effectively to varying student concerns and behavioral reactions

• Commitment to ensuring an inclusive environment where all members of the Girls First community are treated with dignity and respect

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