K-8 Music Teacher

Position Summary

Horizon Science Academy seeks a dedicated Music Teacher to provide high-quality instruction that fosters students’ understanding, appreciation, and expression of music for students in grades K–8. The teacher will design and deliver engaging music instruction aligned to standards while supporting students’ development in vocal and instrumental performance, creativity, and cultural appreciation of music.

As a full-time position, and because music sections may not fill the entire instructional day, the teacher will also support the school through instructional push-in support, MTSS interventions, and operational supervision during the school day and before/after school activities.

This role supports the school’s mission of fostering inquiry, creativity, and readiness for college and career.
 

This position reports to the Building Principal.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Music Education or a related field from an accredited institution.
• Master’s degree preferred.

Certification

• Valid Iowa Teaching License with appropriate Music endorsement (K–8), in accordance with Iowa Board of Educational Examiners requirements.

Experience

• Prior teaching experience preferred.
• Experience working with elementary or middle school students strongly preferred.

Essential Responsibilities

Music Instruction

• Plan and deliver engaging music instruction aligned with school and state standards.
• Develop students’ skills in vocal and/or instrumental performance.
• Teach music theory, rhythm, pitch, notation, and basic composition.
• Expose students to a wide range of musical genres, cultures, and historical periods.
• Foster creativity, expression, and confidence through performance and participation.
• Differentiate instruction to meet diverse student abilities and learning styles.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and inclusive classroom environment.
• Manage instruments, materials, and equipment safely and effectively.

Student Learning and Assessment

• Assess student progress in musical skills, participation, and understanding.
• Maintain accurate records of student performance and participation.
• Provide timely and constructive feedback to students and families.
• Use assessment data to inform instruction and support student growth.
• Support schoolwide instructional goals and student achievement efforts.

Student Support and MTSS

• Support school MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) efforts through Tier 2/Tier 3 interventions and targeted student support, including:
• Small group support
• Academic or behavioral push-in support
• Engagement strategies to support diverse learners
• Collaborate with teachers and administrators to support student success.

School Community and Culture

• Establish and maintain a positive, respectful, and inclusive learning environment.
• Encourage collaboration, creativity, and responsible behavior.
• Promote appreciation for diverse musical cultures and perspectives.
• Communicate effectively with students, staff, and families regarding student progress.
• Participate in professional learning communities, staff meetings, and school initiatives.

Operational Support and School-Wide Responsibilities

Because this is a full-time role, additional responsibilities may include:

• Instructional push-in support in classrooms
• Supervision during arrival, lunch, recess, or dismissal
• Support during before- or after-school programs or activities
• Assistance with school events, performances, and showcases
• Collaboration with staff to support overall school operations
• Provide active supervision to ensure student safety in all assigned settings

Professional Responsibilities

• Maintain professional competence through ongoing professional learning.
• Follow all school policies, procedures, and student safety protocols.
• Maintain accurate records as required by school policy and Iowa law.
• Collaborate with staff to support a positive school culture and strong instructional program.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of music instruction, theory, and child development
• Ability to deliver engaging, developmentally appropriate instruction
• Strong classroom management and student engagement skills
• Ability to foster creativity and student confidence in performance
• Ability to collaborate effectively with staff and families
• Ability to support schoolwide initiatives and MTSS interventions
• Ability to maintain safe and organized learning environments

Terms of Employment

• Full-time, 10-month position
• Salary and benefits determined according to school board compensation policies
• Position evaluated annually by the Building Principal