Position Purpose: The full-time ES Studio Teacher is responsible for assisting in the implementation of the Experiential School Art and Music programs under the direction of the Head of the Experiential School and in collaboration with the ES faculty.

Description

The Studio at The Experiential School serves as a dynamic space where children explore diverse materials and techniques. Our Studio teacher is a versatile educator who collaborates with students, guiding their logical and creative journeys. By being a part of the day of students in both Alpha and Junior Kindergarten, the Studio makes learning visible and honors the multiple expressive languages of childhood. 

Essential Functions

Instructional Leadership & The Reggio Emilia Approach

• 100 Languages of Children: Treat art and music as fundamental non-verbal languages that help children construct their understanding of the world around them.
• Facilitate Artistic Exploration: Lead full and small group sessions in the Studio, integrating Visual Arts and Music.
• Curate the Environment: Design and maintain a Studio space that sparks curiosity, offering materials that value both the creative process and the final product while supporting diverse learning styles.
• Cultivate Inquiry: Plan a balanced program of demonstration and open-ended work time, encouraging students to observe, question, and investigate.
• Foster Development: Use intentional modeling and teacher language to grow students’ problem-solving, communication, and collaborative skills.
• Produce Annual Performance: Direct and produce one signature music performance per year at the Janet Root Theatre.

Documentation & Assessment

• Make Learning Visible: Observe and document student explorations using anecdotes and artifacts to guide pedagogical decision-making and share insights with the community.
• Responsive Teaching: Listen to and value children’s unique competencies, using their interests as a springboard for further exploration and provocations.

Collaboration & Professional Growth

• Program Development: Partner with faculty and administration to develop, evaluate, and refine early childhood Art and Music curricula.
• Community Engagement: Represent the Experiential School in school-wide events and division specific programs, maintaining positive, professional relationships with families and colleagues.
• Continuous Learning: Commit to ongoing research into Early Childhood Education by attending professional development, engaging with other independent schools, global educator networks, and staying current with industry literature.

School Operations & Student Support

• Classroom Support: Serve as a teacher or teaching assistant as needed, providing classroom coverage and supervising students to ensure a safe, productive environment.
• Daily Logistics: Contribute to the daily flow of the school through playground supervision, morning Before Care, and afternoon carline duties.
• Health & Safety: Strictly adhere to all health and safety protocols, modeling responsible actions to safeguard the well-being of the school community.
• Studio Stewardship: Maintain the organization and aesthetic integrity of the Studio area within the ES Exploratorium.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood or Art/Art Education required
• Preference will be given to candidates with an additional background in the Reggio Emilia approach to Education 
• Preference will be given to candidates with an additional background in Music
• DCF 40 hour introductory child care training preferred

• First aid and Infant and Child CPR certification preferred

• Interest in children in an educational setting
• Good verbal skills with students, colleagues and parents
• Demonstrated organizational skills
• Able to use basic office equipment 
• Proficient in technology and web based tools 
• Supports Shorecrest’s Mission and core values

Physical Requirements and Work Environment

• Works in a highly involved and busy environment dealing with a wide variety of challenges, deadlines, and a varied and diverse array of contacts
• May work at a desk and computer for extended periods of time
• Be able to occasionally lift up to 30 lbs.
• Spend time sitting on floor or child size furniture
• Monitor children in classroom, playground, library, and other school areas
• Be able to come in contact with children who are ill/ contagious
• Work primarily in a traditional climate controlled classroom environment  
• Work intermittently in outside weather conditions, including extreme heat and cold

About Shorecrest Preparatory School

Founded in 1923, Shorecrest is one of the oldest independent schools in Florida serving approximately 950 students from PK to Grade 12. Last year, more than 60% of its graduates matriculated to universities outside the state of Florida. Its curriculum is challenging and offers students multiple opportunities for advanced study through its extensive AP program, advanced elective offerings, and an Independent Study option. St. Petersburg is a vibrant and growing city, named as one of the world’s most attractive small cities for art. It has a lively downtown, abuzz with outdoor concerts and markets, and it is within minutes of some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Shorecrest Preparatory School welcomes candidates for admission or employment, regardless of age, race, culture, gender, sexual orientation, religion, socio-economic status, national or ethnic origin, and does not discriminate on the basis of any category protected by law in the administration of any of its programs.

Connections working at Shorecrest Preparatory School