Elementary Orchestra Teacher - Traveling

Elementary Traveling Orchestra Educator: The First Note

Location: Robinwood/Halls Ferry/Combs (Grades 3-5)

Year: 2026-2027 School Year

The Opportunity: Building the Foundation

In our elementary buildings, you aren't just teaching an instrument; you are introducing students to a lifelong passion. For many of our 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders, you are the person who hands them their first violin or cello.

As part of the Ferguson-Florissant "New Chapter," you will be the face of our strings program across the district. We are looking for a high-energy, mobile educator who can spark excitement in a 9-year-old and build a program from the ground up. If you love the variety of working in different school communities and have the vision to grow a diverse orchestra, your next movement starts here.

Role Summary

As an Elementary Traveling Orchestra Teacher, you will lead string instruction across multiple buildings within our six intermediate (3-5) schools. Your focus will be on recruitment, foundational technique, and fostering a love for ensemble playing. Because you are the "bridge" between schools, you will work closely with multiple principals and the Fine Arts Coordinator to ensure a seamless, high-quality experience for our youngest musicians.

Why You’ll Succeed (Qualifications)

• Certified Professional: Valid Missouri Teaching Certification in Music (K-12).
• Degree Requirements: Bachelor of Arts or Science Degree, required; Master’s degree, preferred.
• The "Road Warrior": Must have reliable personal transportation to travel between assigned buildings.
• Engagement Specialist: You know how to make a 30-minute lesson the highlight of a 4th grader’s week.
• Organizational Pro: You can track inventory, lesson schedules, and student progress across multiple sites without missing a beat.
• Equity Champion: You are committed to ensuring every student has the resources and encouragement to participate in strings, regardless of their background.

Your Impact (Key Duties)

• Recruit & Retain: Host high-energy recruitment events to get 3rd and 4th graders excited about joining the orchestra.
• Teach the Basics: Focus on the "Foundational Five"—posture, bow hold, intonation, rhythm, and the joy of performance.
• Stay Mobile: Transition efficiently between school sites, maintaining an organized "mobile office" and positive relationships at every stop.
• Collaborate: Work with classroom teachers to ensure pull-out lessons are balanced with academic needs.
• Showcase Success: Lead "First Note" concerts and elementary festivals that celebrate student progress for families and the community.

Your Leadership Partners

• Primary Support: District Fine Arts Coordinator
• Site Support: Building Principals at your assigned intermediate schools

The Logistics of Your Success

• Classification: Exempt, Certified Staff
• Work Year: 10-Month Academic Calendar, 187 Contract Days
• Travel Support: Daily travel between sites is required. Mileage reimbursement is provided per district policy to cover your travel costs.
• Salary: Based on the Teacher Salary Schedule, determined by experience and education.

The FFSD Advantage: Total Rewards & Support

• Support for the Journey: Mileage reimbursement and a dedicated mentor who has mastered the "traveling teacher" lifestyle.
• Time for Excellence: Built-in travel time and collaborative planning time within the fine arts department.
• Professional Growth: Tuition reimbursement and district-provided PD focused on elementary pedagogy.
• Health & Heart: 100% district-paid medical, dental, and vision plans, plus access to the Ferg-Flor Care clinic.

About Our Schools

The Ferguson-Florissant School District is a community-centered district that treats the arts as a core academic pillar. From our nationally-recognized STEAM schools to our award-winning Challenger Learning Center, we provide an environment where your orchestra program will have the support it needs to thrive.

Hiring Timeline

• Application Deadline: April 4, 2026

Ready to inspire our youngest musicians? Join our fantastic team today!