Middle School Music Teacher, Instrumental Band

Uncommon Schools, Inc.; New York (NY); On-site; USD 72,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a passionate Middle School Music Teacher to inspire and develop musical talent among students. This role offers the chance to lead a dynamic band program, teach essential music skills, and collaborate with fellow educators to enhance students' musical journey. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, the organization invests in its educators through extensive training and support, ensuring a rich environment for both teaching and learning. If you are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of students through music, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Benefits

Generous paid time off

Comprehensive health insurance

403(b) retirement savings program

Paid leave of absence options

Mental health and counseling support

Best-in-class training and development

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in music education required; Master's preferred.
• Experience leading bands and proficiency in woodwinds, brass, and percussion.

Responsibilities

• Lead high-quality instrumental instruction for middle school musicians.
• Design and implement assessments to measure student progress.

Skills

Instrumental Pedagogy

Music Literacy

Communication Skills

Classroom Management

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Music Education

Master's Degree in Music Education

Tools

Woodwinds

Brass

Percussion

Job description

Middle School Music Teacher, Instrumental Band

• Full-time
• Hiring Start Time: RY 25-26

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!

Uncommon Schools seeks an accomplished, passionate Middle School Music (instrumental, band) 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 music pedagogy approach is grounded in balancing direct literacy and ensemble skills through ensemble-based learning on a variety of instruments (woodwinds, brass, percussion). Our music program includes building foundational literacy and performance skills on an instrument while exposing students to various music repertoires, styles, genres, and cultures through performance repertoire. The band teacher introduces the instruments to new band students while developing older students who have been a part of the program in classroom ensemble settings.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

• Implement network band program vision by leading high-quality instrumental instruction for middle school musicians that meet music-specific academic standards;
• Teach all music-based content including wind ensemble instrumental pedagogy (rhythm, wind, and brass), music literacy and sight-reading on instruments, and ensemble performance repertoire.
• Direct afterschool band with 5+ types of instrumentation;
• Develop music literacy lesson components related to teaching rhythm and pitch notation, improvisation and composition;
• High-level collaboration with Principal 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;
• Use assessment data to refine curriculum and inform instructional practices;
• 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;
• Develop 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;
• Participate in an annual three-week staff orientation and training.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in music education is required; Master’s degree is preferred;
• Valid State Certification is helpful but not required;
• Experience leading and directing bands and advanced experience with instrumental pedagogy;
• Proficiency playing and teaching woodwinds, brass, and percussion required. Experience arranging instrumental music is helpful;
• Ability to manage and direct large groups of students;
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills;
• Belief in and alignment with Uncommon’s core beliefs and educational philosophy is non-negotiable;
• 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;
• Evidence of self-motivation and willingness to be a team player.

Compensation

Compensation for this role is between $72,000 to $115,000. 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 $72,000.

• 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).
• 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 [emailprotected].