Photography Head Instructor (Teaching Artist)
Position Overview
The Head Instructor is responsible for leading the Puerto Rican Arts Alliance (PRAA) Photography Afterschool Cohort at Erie Charter School, a creative learning program designed to empower youth through visual storytelling, technical skill-building, and artistic self‑expression. The instructor will cultivate a positive, engaging, and inclusive environment where students explore photography as a tool for creativity, confidence, professional development, and emotional awareness. Students will learn foundational photography skills, including composition, lighting, portraiture, and digital editing, while developing their own photo projects that highlight identity, community, and personal narrative. This position is ideal for a teaching artist who believes in the power of the arts to inspire personal growth and strengthen community connections. Experience working with youth in educational, community, or therapeutic settings is required. Individuals with backgrounds in art education, photography, digital media, art therapy, trauma‑informed practices, expressive arts, or social‑emotional learning are strongly encouraged to apply.
- Program Design: Develop a structured 30‑week curriculum aligned with PRAA’s mission and Erie Charter School’s student needs.
- Instruction: Facilitate twice‑weeklysessions (Tues & Thurs, 3:30–4:30 PM).
- Classroom Management: Create a positive, safe, and inclusive learningenvironment.
- Project Development: Guide students through individual or collaborativeartistic projects.
- Showcase Production: Plan and execute an end‑of‑program showcase(performance, gallery, or multimedia presentation).
- Communication: Coordinate with PRAA and school staff regardingattendance, materials, and student needs
- Minimum of 2–3 years of experienceteaching visual arts, illustration, graphic design, or related creativedisciplines.
- Experience working with youth(ages 8–18) in schools, community organizations, or after-school programs.
- Strong classroom management andfacilitation skills.
- Excellent communication andorganizational abilities.
- Ability to inspire creativity,while maintaining a structured learning environment.
- Strong organizational andcommunication skills.
- Interest in culturally responsivearts education aligned with PRAA’s mission.
Why Join PRAA? • Be part of a mission-driven organization rooted in arts, culture, and community empowerment • Lead meaningful, paid opportunities for teens • Create lasting impact through public art and youth voice • Collaborate with a network of artists, educators, and community leaders
● $35.00 - $50.00 per hour based on experience and discipline. ● Approximately 3.5 hours per 30-week cohort, including instruction, preparation, and administrative responsibilities. ● Independent contractor role (not a school employee). ● Reports to PRAA Coordinator and Mozart Administration
How to Apply
Email your resume and cover letterto our Art Education Manager, Isabel Gomez at isabel@praachicago.organd our Director Jose Luis Illanes, josel@praachicago.org