Museum Educator, School Programs

The mission of Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is to welcome all to celebrate the American spirit in a setting that unites the power of art with the beauty of nature. Founded by philanthropist and arts patron Alice Walton, Crystal Bridges is a public nonprofit organization dedicated to free admission and community engagement.

Museum Educators for School Programs play a pivotal part in inspiring students and educators through dynamic, interactive experiences in museum galleries, classroom settings, and virtual spaces. Working closely with full‑time educators and the Manager of Museum Education, the educator will support the design and implementation of K‑12 curriculum, contribute to innovative initiatives, and champion student‑centered learning.

• Plan and deliver explorations of art in galleries (approximately 80% of the time), classrooms, off‑site locations, and virtual platforms, prioritizing student‑centered learning.
• Develop and write curriculum and interpretive materials for K‑12 initiatives, incorporating best practices in museum education and current trends in STEAM and arts integration.
• Leverage digital tools, including AI, to create engaging and accessible content and develop virtual tours, video, audio, and interactive online tools.
• Continuously refine instructional practices to create impactful learner‑centered experiences.
• Collaborate in the planning, programming, and execution of school and teacher events, ensuring alignment with educational goals.
• Attend and actively engage in training sessions and cohort meetings to build skills, share insights, and contribute to a culture of continuous learning.
• Build meaningful relationships among students, teachers, and administrators to create exceptional and impactful experiences.
• Travel to schools primarily in the Northwest Arkansas area; may travel beyond the region as needed.

• Demonstrated knowledge of current trends in K‑12 education, museum pedagogy, and arts‑based learning.
• Experience designing and implementing innovative educational programs.
• Proven ability to build relationships with educators, administrators, and community partners.
• Teaching licensure preferred.
• Fluency in additional languages desirable; bilingual in Spanish, Ebon (Marshallese), or ASL strongly preferred.
• Strong organizational and detail‑oriented skills with the ability to manage multiple projects in a fast‑paced environment.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, including public speaking and leading interactive sessions.
• Technological proficiency with virtual engagement platforms, content creation tools, and digital learning environments.
• Availability to work evenings and weekends as needed.

• Bachelor’s degree in art education, art history, studio art, education, museum studies, or equivalent.
• Demonstrated knowledge of American art history; knowledge of art, architecture, nature, and wellness preferred.
• Minimum of three years’ experience teaching a range of ages in a school or community setting.
• Three years’ experience leading tours, facilitating programs, or public speaking.

Position requires use of computer and telephone for prolonged periods, interpersonal and written communication, and transportation of up to 20 lbs. Work environments include museum galleries, classrooms, outdoors on trails, and community settings. Some evenings and weekend hours are required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a confidentiality agreement and background check where permitted by state law. Identification verifying eligibility to work in the United States must be provided.

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to building and maintaining a workplace that is free of discrimination and harassment of any kind. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.