Who we are?

Ethical Culture Fieldston School is a progressive PreK-12 independent school that has been serving students from throughout New York City and the surrounding suburbs since 1878. ECFS offers a rich curriculum in the arts, sciences, and humanities. A co-ed, nonsectarian school, it serves a diverse community of about 1,700 students on two campuses -- one in the Riverdale section of the Bronx and the other in Manhattan. Fieldston Lower, located in the Riverdale section of the Bronx, is comprised of approximately 270 students Pre-K through 5th Grade and 60 faculty members.

What is essential about working at our school?

The Ethical Culture Fieldston School has a long history of equity and inclusion deeply rooted in our mission and the educational philosophy of our founder, Felix Adler. We embrace diversity of ancestry, family, identity, culture, and beliefs and seek a student body and faculty that reflect the pluralism and socio-economic diversity of metropolitan New York. We affirm both our differences and commonalities and strive to balance individuality and community. In keeping with our progressive tradition, we are dedicated to increasing our students’ cultural literacy to help them understand multiple perspectives and see the world beyond the self. 

We expect members of our community to engage in open dialogue about living and learning in a diverse environment inside and outside the classroom. We see this work, with its creative tensions, as a catalyst for individual and collective growth. On a daily basis, we are committed to making this vision of a democratic, pluralistic, and progressive school a reality. 

Position SummaryFieldston Lower (Riverdale) is seeking an experienced full-time music and performing arts teacher who is committed to and considers diversity, equity, inclusion, and ethics to be at the core of their work with students and colleagues and who will contribute to the academic success of all students. He/She/They will lead and teach classes independently and co-teach with the division’s part-time music teacher. The teacher should be proficient in guitar or piano and be able to accompany classes in music performances. Additionally, we prioritize applicants with additional background in theater or dance teaching. When applying, please indicate if you have experience teaching theater and/or dance. 

The hiring range for this role is $68,212-$161,916 (subject to union negotiations).

Responsibilities

The Music & Performing Arts Teacher responsibilities will include: 

• Participating in department curriculum development, meetings and activities;

• The ability to confidently accompany classes in music performances on the guitar or piano;

• Motivating and encouraging students to have a love for the arts;

• The ability to place an emphasis on choral singing, including multi-part pieces;

• Preparing the children for assemblies and leading music classes; 

•  Leading groups in dance or theatrical performances;

• Performing other related projects and duties as assigned.

Position RequirementsThe Music & Performing Arts Teacher will possess:

• A Bachelor’s degree is required; a Master’s degree is preferred;

• Prior experience teaching music, theater, and/or dance in a school setting with a broad range of elementary school students;

• Familiarity teaching with Orff instruments, recorders, and/or other school instruments;

• A dynamic, energetic, and creative mindset;

• Previous experience directing a chorus;

• The ability to collaborate and work closely with another music teacher;

• Proficiency with technology, including Smartboards, Google platforms, and music recording software;

• A passion for the arts and teaching is a must;

• Respect and appreciation for diversity in all of its forms;

• The ability to listen effectively and be receptive to feedback.

To ApplyAll candidates should visit our employment page at www.ecfs.org to apply. Please a resume, and contact information for three references. EEOECFS is an equal opportunity employer. Our goal is to be a diverse community of professionals that broadly reflects the people of the metropolitan New York City area, our students, and families. We aim to align our hiring process with our mission and institutional goals. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion or religious practices, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, citizenship status, national origin, age, ability status, military status, unemployment status or any other category protected by applicable local, state, or federal laws. ECFS takes affirmative action in support of its policy to employ and advance all qualified candidates.