Elementary Music Teacher
Position Title: Elementary Music Teacher (Pre-K-6)
Location: Traphagen School
Reports To: Building Principal
Position Type: Full-Time
Position Summary
Traphagen School is seeking a passionate, creative, and student-centered Elementary Music Teacher to inspire a lifelong appreciation of music while providing high-quality standards-based instruction to students in grades Pre-K through 6. The successful candidate will create an engaging and inclusive learning environment where every student has the opportunity to develop musical skills, creativity, confidence, and an appreciation for the performing arts.
The Elementary Music Teacher will design and deliver instruction aligned with the New York State Learning Standards for the Arts, integrate music across the curriculum, and contribute to a positive school culture through performances and collaborative learning experiences.
Essential Responsibilities
Instruction
- Plan and deliver engaging, developmentally appropriate music instruction for students in grades Pre-K-6.
- Develop students' understanding of rhythm, melody, harmony, music literacy, movement, singing, listening, composition, and instrumental performance.
- Foster creativity, collaboration, critical thinking, and self-expression through music.
- Differentiate instruction to meet the diverse learning needs of all students, including students with disabilities, English Language Learners, and students with varying musical abilities.
- Integrate technology and innovative instructional strategies to enhance music instruction.
- Maintain a safe, organized, and stimulating classroom environment that promotes active student engagement.
Assessment
- Assess student progress using a variety of formative and summative assessment strategies.
- Use assessment data to monitor student growth and inform instructional planning.
- Provide timely and meaningful feedback to students and families regarding student progress.
School Community
- Plan, organize, and direct school performances, concerts, assemblies, and other musical events.
- Collaborate with classroom teachers to integrate music into interdisciplinary learning experiences when appropriate.
- Participate actively in grade-level, faculty, committee, and professional learning meetings.
- Build positive relationships with students, families, colleagues, and the broader school community.
Classroom Environment
- Establish and maintain clear expectations that promote respect, responsibility, and positive student behavior.
- Create an inclusive classroom culture where every student feels valued and encouraged to participate.
- Ensure the proper care, inventory, and maintenance of musical instruments, equipment, and instructional materials.
Professional Responsibilities
- Maintain accurate records, lesson plans, attendance, and assessment documentation.
- Participate in professional development and remain current with best practices in music education.
- Support the mission, vision, and goals of Traphagen School and the Mount Vernon City School District.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Building Principal.
Qualifications
Required
- New York State Certification in Music (Pre-K-12) or eligibility for certification.
- Bachelor's degree in Music Education or a closely related field.
- Demonstrated knowledge of elementary music pedagogy and child development.
- Strong classroom management and communication skills.
- Commitment to creating an inclusive and culturally responsive learning environment.
Preferred
- Master's degree in Music Education or related field.
- Experience teaching elementary music in a diverse school setting.
- Experience directing student performances, concerts, and musical productions.
- Experience integrating instructional technology into music education.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
The successful candidate will demonstrate the ability to:
- Deliver engaging, standards-based music instruction.
- Differentiate instruction to support diverse learners.
- Build positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues.
- Foster creativity, collaboration, and student engagement.
- Organize and direct successful school performances and events.
- Communicate effectively with all members of the school community.
- Work collaboratively as a member of a Professional Learning Community (PLC).
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand, move throughout the classroom, and actively engage students during instruction.
- Ability to lift and transport musical instruments and instructional materials as needed.
- Ability to supervise students safely during performances, rehearsals, and school events.
Desired Characteristics
The ideal candidate is:
- Passionate about inspiring a love of music in young learners.
- Creative, enthusiastic, and energetic.
- Student-centered and relationship-focused.
- Organized, flexible, and reflective in practice.
- Committed to equity, inclusion, and excellence for all students.