What are the responsibilities and job description for the Middle School Orchestra Teacher - Traveling position at FERGUSON MIDDLE?
Middle School Traveling Orchestra Educator: Master of Harmony
Location: Ferguson Middle and Johnson-Wabash 6th Grade Center(Grades 6-8)
Year: 2026-2027 School Year
The Opportunity: Elevating the Art
In our middle schools, the "first notes" of elementary school transform into sophisticated performances. We are looking for a technically skilled, high-energy Orchestra Teacher to lead our 7th and 8th-grade musicians across our middle school campuses. This is a critical stage where your leadership determines whether a student becomes a lifelong musician.
As part of the Ferguson-Florissant "New Chapter," you will bridge our middle school communities, preparing students for the elite opportunities in our STEAM and traditional high schools. If you are a visionary conductor who loves the "middle school energy" and the variety of a multi-campus role, your next movement starts here.
Role Summary
As a Middle School Traveling Orchestra Teacher, you will lead string instruction and ensemble rehearsals across our 6th-8th grade centers. You will focus on advanced technical skills, expressive performance, and preparing students for the rigor of high school music programs. Working collaboratively with site-based staff and the Fine Arts Coordinator, you will ensure a consistent, high-standard strings curriculum across the district.
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.
- Middle School Specialist: You understand the social-emotional needs of 12-14-year-olds and know how to keep them inspired and practicing.
- Technical Expert: You are skilled in teaching advanced shifting, vibrato, and ensemble balance.
- Equity Champion: You are committed to ensuring that every middle schooler has access to the instruments and coaching they need to excel.
Your Impact (Key Duties)
- Refine & Perform: Lead rehearsals that challenge 6th - 8th graders with diverse, culturally responsive, and rigorous repertoire.
- Bridge the Path: Travel between middle school sites to provide a seamless instructional experience that prepares students for high school success.
- Mentor Young Artists: Build strong relationships with students across multiple buildings, serving as a consistent advocate for their musical growth.
- Collaborate: Partner with building-level leadership to integrate orchestra into the middle school experience and recruit from our primary/intermediate pipelines.
- Showcase Excellence: Direct district-wide middle school festivals and concerts that highlight the "New Chapter" of FFSD music.
Your Leadership Partners
- Primary Support: District Fine Arts Coordinator
- Site Support: Building Principals at assigned Middle 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 within the Fine Arts department.
- Time for Excellence: Built-in travel time and collaborative planning time (PLC) with fellow music educators.
- Professional Growth: Tuition reimbursement and district-provided PD focused on secondary instrumental pedagogy.
- Health & Heart: 100% district-paid medical, dental, and vision plans, plus access to the Ferg-Flor Care district health clinic.
About Our Schools
The Ferguson-Florissant School District is a community-centered district that values the arts as a key component of student identity. From our nationally-recognized STEAM schools to our award-winning Challenger Learning Center, we provide an environment where your orchestra program is supported, celebrated, and vital.
Hiring Timeline
- Application Deadline: OPEN UNTIL FILLED
Ready to lead our middle school musicians? Join our fantastic team today!