High School Music Teacher

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. 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 High School Music/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. Teaching music at Uncommon Schools requires the desire to constantly grow in one’s instructional craft through consist feedback and collaboration with their team. Music thrives throughout each school and drives  culture and community.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

• Implement curricula and activities to meet music-specific academic standards;
• Teach all music-based content including but not limited to wind ensemble instruments (wind and brass), middle school-related general music (recorder, Orff instruments, drumming), singing, and music theory)
• Direct band classes with 5+ types of instrumentation;
• Develop music literacy lesson components related to teaching rhythm and pitch notation, solfege reading and singing, improvisation and composition
• High-level collaboration with co-music teacher 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;
• 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. 

• Bachelor’s degree in music education is required; Master’s degree is preferred;
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills;
• Valid State Certification is helpful but not required;
• Advanced experience with instrumental pedagogy;
• Familiarity with principles of Kodaly, Orff and/or Dalcroze Eurhythmics; certification in one or more preferred;
• Piano proficiency, knowledge of recorder, basic guitar. Additional instrument proficiency is helpful;
• Singing experience is preferred;
• Ability to manage and direct large groups of students;
• Proficiency arranging instrumental and/or vocal music for varying ability levels;
• 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.

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 $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.

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.

At Uncommon, we believe that a supportive and welcoming environment helps our students, staff, and community thrive. We are dedicated to building a team that brings a wide range of perspectives and experiences, reflective of the communities we serve---with over 70% of our staff identifying as people of color. Our organization values respect and open dialogue on important topics that shape our school culture.

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 [email protected].