Description

JOB SUMMARY:

We are seeking an energetic and imaginative educator to join our team as a Lower School Music Teacher. As part of our Arts Department and Lower School teaching community, you will play a pivotal role in fostering a student-centered learning atmosphere for Prek3-Grade 1 students. Your dedication will enrich our music program through innovative teaching methods and collaborative initiatives, contributing to the overall success of our Arts events and programs.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & TASKS:

• Develop and enhance music curriculum in alignment with NAFME standards, focusing on creating, performing, and responding.
• Maintain a conducive learning environment by setting and upholding standards of student behavior during class time, rehearsals, and performances.
• Safeguard school-owned musical instruments, equipment, and technology, ensuring proper care and responsible usage.
• Demonstrate effective oral and written communication skills to engage with students, parents/guardians, and colleagues.
• Assess and track students' musical progress, providing timely feedback through various channels such as report cards, conferences, and written communication.
• Clearly outline learning objectives for all activities, ensuring transparency and alignment with educational goals.
• Engage in ongoing professional development opportunities to enhance teaching practices and stay updated with industry trends.
• Actively participate in departmental, school, and divisional meetings, contributing insights and collaborating with peers.
• Fulfill supervisory duties as assigned and support evening Arts Department events as needed.

Join us in inspiring the next generation of musicians and enriching our school community through the power of music education!

Qualifications

DEPARTMENTAL PREFERENCES:

• Master’s degree 
• 4 years music teaching experience
• Experience teaching Early Childhood
• Experience teaching in an independent school
• Experience using Understanding by Design curriculum framework

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES:

• Bachelor’s degree in music education or related field
• Experience/training in Gordon Music Learning Theory, Orff-Schulwerk, or Kodaly
• Strong vocal and instrumental skills, including piano. 
• Ability to create joyful music experiences for young students.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with colleagues.
• Work collaboratively with a team to design, organize, and implement cohesive curriculum using the Understanding by Design framework, that guides and encourages students to develop and fulfill their artistic and academic potential. 
• Communicate effectively verbally, in writing and in person to foster a collegial relationship with all production coordinators and school personnel involved in events, programs and productions. 
• Ability to work with musicians at all skill levels and differentiate to meet the needs of individuals. 
• Demonstrate preparation and skill in working with students from diverse cultural, economic and ability backgrounds. 
• Enthusiastic, flexible, patient, solution-oriented and positive demeanor during times of stress and navigating challenges typical to performance and school environments. 
• A willingness to understand and support the school’s mission and vision, as well as recognize impact the climate and culture of the school have on the work of the Center for the Arts. 
• Demonstrate an understanding of the needs of various constituencies within the school community and use interpersonal skills and attitude to deliver an exemplary experience to all students, parents/guardians, and colleagues. 
• Desire to engage in continual professional growth and to be a member of a dynamic community of life-long learners at Miami Country Day School.
• Ability to lift up to 30 lbs. 
• Work in varied and extreme weather conditions, including extreme heat of South Florida 
• Adequate physical mobility, dexterity, and strength to participate in school environment and able to ambulate across campus.