Toy Design Camp: 10 - 13 Instructor for Continuing Studies Middle School Programs

fullTime

Part-time
,

submitted by
Continuing Studies

posted on
02.24.2026

contact
saic-cs-faculty@artic.edu
Toy Design Camp: 10 - 13 Instructor for Continuing Studies Middle School Programs

Toy Design Camp: 10 - 13 Instructor for Continuing Studies Middle School Programs

SAIC: Office of Continuing Studies

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT

The mission of Continuing Studies at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago is to provide an education that harnesses the transformative power of a leading art and design school, a world-renowned museum, and a vibrant city to support the development of critical thinking, rigorous investigation, and playful creativity. Serving students ages four to adult, we believe having confidence in one’s creative abilities plays a critical role in successfully meeting the unique challenges of today’s world.

Learn more about teaching in Continuing Studies at SAIC.

ABOUT THE POSITION

The School of the Art Institute of Chicago's (SAIC) Middle School Program (MSP) for children ages 10-13 offers a rigorous and fun investigation into art and design materials, techniques, and ideas. Whether students are interested in drawing, painting, fashion, digital design, animation, architecture, or sculpture, our courses are designed to broaden students' education so they can be successful creative thinkers, innovators, and problem solvers in high school and beyond.

Course Title: Toy Design Camp: 10-13

Format: In Person

Course Dates: 6/29 - 7/10, No class on 7/3 (60 contact hours)

Meeting Times: Monday - Friday, 9am-4pm

Teaching Assistant: One SAIC undergraduate or graduate student will be assigned to TA the course.

Class Capacity: 15 Students

Course Description: In this exciting workshop, your child's creativity will flourish as they learn to draw, sculpt, model, mold, sew, and prototype unique toys, stuffed animals, and action figures. Campers will begin by developing their characters through traditional illustrations before transitioning to 3D media. They will draw inspiration from classic and contemporary toys and accompanying cartoons or stories. Throughout the camp, students will explore various techniques and creative approaches to bring their toy designs to life.

RESPONSIBILITIES

An Instructor is contracted to teach a Continuing Studies course and is responsible for the following:

Develops course outline and student supply list
Sets the tone for the class, establishes guidelines and protocols for behavior and classroom activity, and provides instruction that meets the needs of all learners
Submits all requested materials to the appropriate administrative offices, including new hire paperwork and/or contracts, course outline, student/class supply list, grades, student and course evaluations, etc.
Attends a Continuing Studies instructor meeting
Adheres to all policies outlined in the Continuing Studies Instructor Handbook
Provides documentation of finished and in-progress student work
Responds to all departmental communication in a timely fashion

Note: All Instructors are required to complete a background check, and Youth instructors must complete the Illinois Mandated Reporter Training.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Regular written and spoken communication with students, teaching assistants, and CS administration.
Oversight over students in the classroom and during trips to the Art Institute of Chicago.

Moving throughout the classroom to manage students and supplies.
Maintaining classrooms and supply closets, which may include infrequent moving of furniture and heavy supplies or equipment.

QUALIFICATIONS

BA in designed objects or a related field is highly preferred
At least one year of experience teaching preferred
Experience writing curriculum and supply lists
Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
Experience working with a teaching assistant is preferred

HOW TO APPLY

Email Ashley Lamb at saic-cs-faculty@artic.edu no later than Wednesday, March 11th, with a resume/CV, images of relevant work samples and images of past student work if applicable. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Contact Info:
Ashley Lamb
saic-cs-faculty@artic.edu

Job Type: Freelance/Contract/Temp

Compensation: Starting rate $1,620/per credit rate

Location: Chicago, IL