NAEA Position Statement on Certified/Licensed Visual Art Educators

Visual arts, design, and media arts in preK–12 schools should be taught by certified or licensed visual arts educators who ideally have preservice experience in the grade level and content area they intend to teach.

Effective educators who are certified or licensed in visual arts should:

• Have a thorough understanding of visual arts, design, and media arts, including history, studio skills, art criticism, aesthetics, and the study of visual arts and cultures.
• Have working knowledge of the National Arts Standards, including the processes of presenting, creating, responding, and connecting.
• Have a knowledge of teaching methodologies, pedagogies, and how to apply them to the visual arts, design, and media arts classroom.
• Have an ongoing understanding of and ability to ethically integrate current and emerging technology into their teaching.
• Understand students as learners, including diverse characteristics, cultures, abilities, and learning styles.
• Help students understand the ways in which the arts make meaning, connect with the entire curriculum, and prepare students for success in school, work, and life.
• Pursue ongoing professional development to support their continuous improvement in both teaching and the arts.

NAEA Position Statement on Certified/Licensed Visual Art Educators