Job Description

Music Teacher at Uncommon Schools summary:

The Music Teacher at Uncommon Schools is responsible for delivering engaging music education to K-12 students, utilizing methodologies such as Orff and Kodaly to foster musical talent. This role includes developing lesson plans, assessing student progress, and collaborating on school performances while ensuring alignment with the institution’s educational philosophy. The ideal candidate possesses a degree in music education, teaching experience, and a passion for enhancing students’ learning experiences through music.

Company Description

Uncommon Schools is a nonprofit network of high-performing public charter schools dedicated to providing an exceptional K-12 education in economically disadvantaged communities. Operating in Boston, Camden, New York City, Newark, and Rochester, we are committed to closing the college completion gap and preparing every student for college and beyond. Our students consistently exceed national benchmarks , reflecting our dedication to their success. With over 70% of our staff identifying as people of color , we exemplify diversity, equity, and inclusion. We invest deeply in our educators , offering weekly coaching, feedback, and professional development to ensure excellence in teaching and leadership. Join us to work hard, do good, and make a lasting difference!

Job Description

Uncommon Schools seeks an accomplished, passionate Music Teacher to join our faculty. The position represents an exciting opportunity to join a growing program that is dedicated to developing excellence in musical talent throughout the K-12 education of our scholars. Our general music pedagogy is grounded in the Orff and Kodaly approaches. Our music program includes singing, movement, playing instruments, and music literacy in every class, with students engaged in as much active music-making as possible. Instrumental instruction includes recorder (in third grade), unpitched percussion, and Orff instruments. 

SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS

• Implement network-provided curricula and activities to meet music-specific academic standards;
• Teach all music-based content including but not limited to singing, dance and movement, elementary instrumental (recorder, Orff instruments, drumming) music;
• Develop music literacy lesson components related to teaching rhythm and pitch notation, solfege reading and singing, improvisation and composition
• High-level collaboration with Enrichment teachers and Director of Operations to create and plan for multiple performances throughout the school year
• Design and implement assessments that measure progress towards academic standards;
• Support school instructional and cultural needs including but not limited to academic teaching coverage, test proctoring, daily systems duties, additional supportive duties
• Participate in collaborative curriculum development, department activities, and school-wide functions;
• Develops strong classroom management skills congruent with Uncommon Schools system of management;
• Be accountable for students’ mastery of musical standards;
• Communicate effectively with students, families, and colleagues; and
• Participate in an annual three-week staff orientation and training.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Arts of Bachelor of Music in Music, Music Education or Performance
• Experience teaching general and vocal music to elementary aged children;
• Experience with the Kodaly and Orff approaches. Levels training in one or both pedagogies is highly preferred;
• Ability to manage and direct large groups of students;
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills;
• Valid State Certification is helpful but not required;
• Piano and vocal proficiency, knowledge of recorder, basic guitar. Additional instrument proficiency is helpful.
• Belief in and alignment with Uncommon’s core beliefs and educational philosophy is non-negotiable;
• Experience performing and/or teaching music is highly preferred;
• Minimum of two years teaching experience in an urban public school or charter school setting preferred;
• Drive to improve the minds and lives of students in and out of the classroom;
• Proven track-record of high achievement in the classroom;
• Mastery of and enthusiasm for academic subjects; and
• Evidence of self-motivation and willingness to be a team player.

Additional Information

Our people are what make us Uncommon. We offer competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits that support the personal health, wellness, and finances of our staff and their families. Our compensation philosophy values equity & fairness and attracting & retaining top talent.

Compensation

Compensation for this role is between $50,000 to $64,700. 

Starting pay is determined using various factors including but not limited to relevant full-time teaching experience, education certifications, and tenure with Uncommon Schools. Candidates without full-time Teaching experience will likely have a starting salary of $50,000. 

Benefits

• Generous paid time off inclusive of sick time, paid holidays, and 10 weeks of paid breaks (Spring, Winter, and Summer). 
• Extensive, best-in-class training and development
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans + pre-tax flexible spending (FSA), dependent care (DCFSA), and health saving accounts (HSA)
• Financial Planning
  • 403(b) retirement savings program + employer match
• Paid leave of absence options (parental, medical, disability, etc.)
• Mental health and counseling support + wellness benefits

*A detailed list of all benefits is located HERE .

Uncommon believes in the importance of being a diverse, equitable, and inclusive organization that enables our students and staff to thrive. We are committed to building an exceptional team that reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of our students. We also strive to ensure an inclusive community by creating a space for meaningful dialogue about issues of race and identity for our staff and students. As an equal opportunity employer, Uncommon provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. We also ensure that individuals with disabilities receive all privileges and benefits associated with employment and are provided reasonable accommodations for the interview process and to perform core job functions. If you would like to request an accommodation, please email recruitment@uncommonschools.org.

Keywords:

music education, K-12 education, music curriculum, Kodaly approach, Orff pedagogy, music teacher, elementary music, student performance, music literacy, music instruction

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