Teach

Want to teach a Trade School class? That's great. We would love to have you. 


There are a few ways you can join the ranks of amazing Makers/Doers/Thinkers who are our teachers at TSLA.

  • If you're brand new to TSLA (haven't attended or taught a class), attending an Orientation is a great way to get the DL on everything you need to know. You can sign up for orientations on the main page of the website (listed with available classes) if they are available. We try to run orientations about once a month, but we know it can be difficult to find time to attend, so they are not manditory -- just highly recommended for newcomers to TSLA. 
  • If you're familiar with TSLA OR have prior teaching experience, you can review the FAQ, About, and Teach sections of the website and contact TSLA organizers with a little about yourself and what you want to teach in lieu of attending an orientation.

The most important thing is that you feel confident and excited to teach your class & share our vision of community building through sharing of knowledge! 

What's involved in teaching a Trade School LA class?

1. Attend a short (fun!) orientation where you'll meet other teachers, learn more about how TSLA works and the role our teachers play, plus share & receive teaching tips on how to create the best possible class.

2. Plan your class and write your class description & short bio for our site

3. Give us a list of at least 5 barter items that you want to receive from your students. (Not sure what to ask for? Check out this list of items previously requested by other teachers.)

4. Help us promote your class by telling your friends / sharing your class via social media

5. Email your students 5 days before class to introduce yourself & share any last-minute info they'll need

6. On the day of class, meet your students, receive your barter goods and teach a great class!

Classes meet one time, and typically last 1-4 hours (as determined by you, the teacher). Our classe are held in a variety of spaces, from art collectives to bookstores and beyond. We'll coordinate a location for your class based on your needs and your schedule. Once your class details are confirmed, we'll publish your class on the website and open up student registration. Your students will sign up on the homepage, and will commit to fulfill one of your barter requests by doing so.

Ready to teach? Past TSLA teachers and those who've attended an orientation can submit a class proposal here. All others, please contact us for more info, and tell us about yourself and what you'd like to teach!