The Music Department seeks a dedicated, dynamic, and experienced part-time Lower School teacher for its Music program. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in music and composition with an ability to engage curious and active boys who thrive on imaginative and versatile pedagogy. The Lower School Music Teacher is highly interactive and communicative in and out of the classroom, collaborating closely with colleagues. This person will be an enthusiastic teacher of music including singing, instrument playing, music reading and appreciation and with a familiarity with the Kodaly method. Additionally, the Music Teacher must possess an enthusiastic commitment to the importance of building and sustaining a diverse, just, inclusive, and equitable academic environment.

General Summary: 

Under the general supervision of the Lower School Head, the part-time Music Teacher is responsible for the instructional program, general operations and management of their assigned class within the Music Department. This position is responsible for establishing the academic foundations at the earliest grade levels, developing lesson plans, independent learning exercises, material, curricula and methods that keep in mind the needs of the individual child and whole-group dynamic.

Essential Duties:

• Teaches classes as assigned, providing effective and professional classroom instruction, assessment and management;
• Designs and implements curriculum and instruction consistent with the mission, values and standards established by the School;
• Ensures the classroom, lessons and materials foster diversity, inclusion and belonging;
• Assesses students to evaluate their abilities, strengths and weaknesses;
• Grades students’ assignments and exams, building students’ confidence, independence and accountability;
• Collaborates with colleagues on curriculum development and on enhancing instructional practices and strategies;
• Establishes effective communications and relationships with students and parents;
• Exhibits a growth mindset about teaching practices and works toward professional goals and development;
• Helps to maintain School policies, protocols and expectations;
• Develops and maintains professional, collaborative and collegial relationships with faculty and staff, as well as with community partners to the benefit of students and classes;
• Supports the work of the Head of School and senior leadership;
• Participates in required non-classroom activities including parent/student conferences, retreats, faculty meetings, field trips and special activities and performance events;
• Provides effective supervision of students to promote a safe and healthy environment and School experience; Supervises students outside of the classroom - for example, during lunch or study hall;
• Completes required reports and tasks timely and professionally;
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Education and Experience:

A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in teaching or related field required. Master’s degree or higher preferred. Must possess a minimum of two years of teaching experience.

Special Requirements:

• Must be able to complete a background check

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Ability and willingness to participate fully in a dynamic day school located in New York City;
• Excellent communication skills, both orally and in writing;
• Familiarity with and commitment to the Kodaly method of music education;
• Ability to help students develop foundational skills and learn to appreciate and love music, prepare for performances, work with classroom teachers to integrate curriculum;
• Ability to remain responsible at all times for the supervision of students during classes and generally at all times when on campus or off campus;
• Ability to learn new technology and systems commensurate with program level requirements;
• Ability to demonstrate creativity and flexibility in pedagogy;
• Demonstrated ability to act as a role model of professionalism;
• Ability to model honesty, accountability, understanding, tolerance, respect, love and kindness for the students;
• Ability to multitask, keep calm under pressure and treat everyone with respect;
• Displays curiosity, a positive attitude, flexibility and a good sense of humor;
• Ability to follow all policies and procedures of the School as written in the employee and parent handbooks.

Physical Conditions and Work Contacts:

Regularly required to stand; walk, use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. Frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.