Teaching Assistant Program at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art

The Santa Barbara Museum of Art Teaching Assistant Program (TA) is a volunteer role for teens ages 15 to 18 who are interested in art, working with children, or both. Teaching Assistants support a Teaching Artist in the Museum's classes and camps for kids. They set up materials, help run the classroom, and guide children through hands-on art projects. Selection is competitive. Accepted TAs receive an orientation and are mentored by a Teaching Artist. The role builds practical skills in both art-making and art education. The positions are unpaid, and the hours count toward required community service. TA openings follow the Museum's class and camp calendar. The winter 2027 after-school class meets on Tuesdays from January 12 to February 16, 2027, from 3:30 to 5:15 pm, with children ages 5 to 12. The 2027 spring camp runs March 29 to April 2, 2027, from 9 am to 3 pm. The Museum also used TAs for its 2026 summer art camp, which ran June 15 to August 7, 2026.

Open to teens ages 15 to 18 who are interested in art, working with children, or both. Students apply through an online form for the specific session. Applications for the winter 2027 after-school class are due December 29, 2026, and the spring camp TA application deadline is March 15, 2027. Questions go to the Museum's community programs team at communityprograms@sbma.net or (805) 884-6457.