Duties

Tonica Grade School is seeking a passionate, creative, and student-centered K-8 Art Teacher to inspire students through visual arts education while fostering creativity, collaboration, and self-expression. The ideal candidate will create an engaging classroom environment that encourages artistic exploration and supports the academic, social, and emotional growth of all students.

Tonica Grade School is proud to have been recognized as a 2025 Illinois Valley Top Workplace, reflecting the district’s strong culture of collaboration, positivity, innovation, and support for both students and staff. As a small rural school district serving kindergarten through eighth grade, Tonica values meaningful relationships, community involvement, and educators who are excited to make a lasting impact both inside and outside the classroom.

Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver engaging standards-aligned art instruction for students in grades K-8
• Foster creativity, critical thinking, and appreciation for the arts
• Incorporate a variety of artistic media, techniques, and cultural perspectives into lessons
• Differentiate instruction to meet diverse student learning needs
• Maintain an organized, safe, and positive classroom environment
• Display student artwork throughout the school and community
• Coordinate school art showcases, student exhibitions, and special projects
• Collaborate with classroom teachers and staff to support interdisciplinary learning opportunities
• Communicate effectively with families regarding student progress and classroom activities
• Utilize assessment data to monitor student growth and inform instruction
• Participate in professional development, school improvement initiatives, and school events
• Build positive relationships with students, families, staff, and the community
• Support the school’s PBIS expectations of being respectful, safe, and responsible

Qualifications

• Valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with appropriate endorsement(s)
• Strong classroom management and organizational skills
• Ability to work collaboratively in a small-school environment
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Knowledge of Illinois Learning Standards for Fine Arts
• Experience teaching elementary and/or middle school students preferred
• Experience integrating technology into instruction preferred

Salary/Benefits

Salary and benefits will be based on education and experience according to the district salary schedule and board-approved benefits.

Additional Notes

Preferred Qualities

• Enthusiasm for working with K-8 students
• Willingness to sponsor extracurricular activities or contribute to school events
• Ability to create meaningful connections with students and families
• Commitment to continuous growth and collaboration

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit:

• Letter of interest
• Resume
• Copies of transcripts and licensure
• Three letters of recommendation

Applications may be sent to:

Mrs. Tracy Malcolm, Principal
Tonica Grade School
535 N. 1981st Road
Tonica, IL 61370

tmalcolm@tonicagradeschool.org

ILearn Link

ILearn

Report Card Link

District Report Card