Lower School Music Teacher

Description

We are seeking a warm, experienced, and innovative music teacher to join our TK-Grade 5 teaching team. The successful applicant will enjoy working in a collaborative environment and embrace an inquiry-based and developmental approach to teaching music, movement, and rhythm to children. The ideal candidate will understand how to provide differentiated and extended learning experiences within the context of a progressive school and use a variety of teaching strategies to engage students in developing a love of music. Classroom management skills are a must. A love of learning and love of school, and a willingness to support unique and unpredictable learning journeys by students will help you thrive at Blue Oak School. This is a part time position.

Responsibilities:

• Provide developmentally-appropriate instruction on singing, rhythm, beat, tempo, movement, improvisation, and the playing of pitched and unpitched percussion instruments. 
• Collaborate with colleagues to design integrated curriculum, projects, and service-learning opportunities
• Incorporate local and global music into teaching to connect students to their community and the world.
• Create a classroom space that is differentiated, engaging, responsive, and beautiful
• Integrate tools and technology as appropriate to support learning and deepen projects
• Identify and respond to individual students’ academic, social, and emotional needs, including learning differences in collaboration with Learning Specialist
• Plan, design, and implement authentic assessment of student progress
• Write progress reports and be available for conferences with parents
• Plan, organize, and deliver culminating performances for the community twice during the school year

Requirements

• Music Teaching Credential and/or MEd or related field
• A minimum of two years classroom teaching experience
• Experience with progressive pedagogy, student-centered learning, project-based learning, and integrated curriculum planning
• Experience/knowledge of Orff Approach, Kodaly, etc.
• A specialization in a particular area, instrument, or style of music
• A commitment to creating an inclusive classroom community that allows for a multitude of perspectives to be heard and respected 
• A love of working with students and creating a joyful learning environment 
• Commitment to personal and professional development and a growth mindset
• High expectations for self, colleagues and students
• Hardworking, organized, good communicator, and reliable
• Ability to model professional and ethical standards when working with students and families
• Sense of humor, authentic empathy, warmth, and collegiality
• Desire and ability to contribute to student and community life inside and outside the classroom
• Commitment to social justice and fostering culturally competent and inclusive classrooms
• Ability to model professional and ethical standards when working with students and families
• Ability to work both independently and as a member of a team
• Ability to exercise gentle authority consistent with our school culture
• Strong communication skills with parents and colleagues