How can I expand my job-hunt to include networking with other art teachers?

April 13, 2009 7:01 AM

How can I expand my job-hunt to include networking with other art teachers?

Background:I'm a highly qualified K-12 art teacher with a BA in illustration and a MA in teaching from one of the nation's top art schools (MICA). I have great resume, a website of my personal art and a great teaching portfolio including full-color pages of student art. I've never been rejected from an interview in my field, and can draw at a graduate level.

Problem: All my connections are several states away or teachers in the school where I already work. I have yet to find a full-time job in my field to apply for.

What I've done: I've sent a resume packet (complete with color images of student art) to the head personnel at the 20 school systems closest to my home. I check the (20+) websites of these schools, craigslist, the local art museum etc. on a regular basis. I started filling out online applications for all these schools, but at 2+ hours each (I doubt anyone really cares how many undergrad credits of science I have.)and no posted openings it seems like a waste of my time and sanity. I've met with local colleges and read books to hone my resume and cover-letter. I'm a member of the state art education association.

What I'm considering doing next: Just send out more resumes. Send them to every private school in the phone book. Send them to the principals of every public school in my city, and all local colleges. Send them to all the local museums etc. After all, that's how I got my current job.

Where I need help: networking. How can I find other local art teachers? We all seem to be alone in our separate schools with no club. Should I just call local art teachers and ask for 'help with my jobhunt' or try to form a different relationship (i.e. let's exchange lesson plans) How can I form and maintain connections with people who'll know when there are openings?
Also prioritizing: In your own job-hunts what has and hasn't been a big waste of time?

posted by debbie_ann to education (4 comments total)

mrs. mmascolino is an art teacher here in Cincinnati and she attends monthly art educators events at our local big art museum. It seems to draw a big crowd. I imagine your local area's museum(s) might have something similar.

As for a bang for the buck investment in time, you might check with your local Catholic dioceses. They probably can give you the lay of the land for what might be available (or will be available come fall) for their entire school system.
posted by mmascolino at 7:20 AM on April 13

Try LinkedIn. This is a "strictly business" networking site - no drunken party photos here. Even if your first connections are the people you know personally, they may have second or third degree connections to other people in your field. There are also all kinds of communities on LinkedIn - I've joined Think Green and Appreciative Inquiry - there is likely one for art teachers too.
posted by Rosie M. Banks at 11:16 AM on April 13

Ditto the monthly art educators idea. Most museums in large cities seem to do this.

Also, further to this - sometimes art museums/galleries are frequently on the lookout to hire educators. Maybe send some resumes out to such places? Could be a good short term solution - finding a part time gig which allows for further networking.

Private schools are also a good bet, it's good that you've sent applications out to them.
posted by jennyhead at 12:58 PM on April 13

I would focus on reaching out to art curriculum directors rather than principals. Most principals do not know much about art; the CD does. Also, the CD will be able to look at your resume for any jobs that open in the district, whereas the principal is limited to one school.

My best suggestion for making contact and building relationships is to join the NAEA and make the most of that and your state association. Go to conferences, attend PD opportunities, join the mailing lists, etc.

Finally, checking the state DOE job listing is faster than looking at individual schools' websites.
posted by Marit at 2:48 PM on April 13