The Elementary Music Teacher will implement network-provided curricula covering singing, movement, instrumental instruction (recorder, Orff instruments, drumming), and music literacy, while actively engaging students in music-making. This role also requires high-level collaboration for planning multiple performances and designing assessments to measure student progress toward academic standards.
Requirements summary
Candidates must possess a Bachelor of Arts or Music in Music, Music Education, or Performance, along with experience teaching general and vocal music to elementary students, preferably utilizing Kodaly and Orff approaches. Essential qualifications include piano/vocal proficiency, strong classroom management skills congruent with the Uncommon Schools system, and a minimum of two years of teaching experience in an urban setting is preferred.
Company DescriptionUncommon Schools is a nonprofit network of high-performing public charter schools dedicated to providing an exceptional K-12 education in economically disadvantaged communities.
Operating in Boston, Camden, New York City, Newark, and Rochester, we are committed to closing the college completion gap and preparing every student for college and beyond.
Our students consistently exceed national benchmarks, reflecting our dedication to their success.
We invest deeply in our educators, offering weekly coaching, feedback, and professional development to ensure excellence in teaching and leadership.
Join us to work hard, do good, and make a lasting difference!Job DescriptionUncommon Schools seeks an accomplished, passionate Elementary Music Teacher to join our faculty.
The position represents an exciting opportunity to join a growing program that is dedicated to developing excellence in musical talent throughout the K-12 education of our scholars.
Our general music pedagogy is grounded in the Orff and Kodaly approaches.
Our music program includes singing, movement, playing instruments, and music literacy in every class, with students engaged in as much active music-making as possible.
Instrumental instruction includes recorder (in third grade), unpitched percussion, and Orff instruments.
SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTSImplement network-provided curricula and activities to meet music-specific academic standards;Teach all music-based content including but not limited to singing, dance and movement, elementary instrumental (recorder, Orff instruments, drumming) music;Develop music literacy lesson components related to teaching rhythm and pitch notation, solfege reading and singing, improvisation and compositionHigh-level collaboration with Enrichment teachers and Director of Operations to create and plan for multiple performances throughout the school yearDesign and implement assessments that measure progress towards academic standards;Support school instructional and cultural needs including but not limited to academic teaching coverage, test proctoring, daily systems duties, additional supportive dutiesParticipate in collaborative curriculum development, department activities, and school-wide functions;Develops strong classroom management skills congruent with Uncommon Schools system of management;Be accountable for students’ mastery of musical standards;Communicate effectively with students, families, and colleagues; andParticipate in an annual three-week staff orientation and training.
Benefits
Dental Insurance
Paid Time Off
Health Insurance
Vision Insurance
Employer Match
Mental Health Support
Wellness Benefits
Counseling Support
Flexible Spending (FSA)
Paid Leave Of Absence Options
Dependent Care (DCFSA)
Health Saving Accounts (HSA)
403(b) Retirement Savings Program
QualificationsBachelor of Arts of Bachelor of Music in Music, Music Education or PerformanceExperience teaching general and vocal music to elementary aged children;Experience with the Kodaly and Orff approaches.
Levels training in one or both pedagogies is highly preferred;Ability to manage and direct large groups of students;Excellent verbal and written communication skills;Valid State Certification is helpful but not required;Piano and vocal proficiency, knowledge of recorder, basic guitar.
Additional instrument proficiency is helpful.Belief in and alignment with Uncommon’s core beliefs and educational philosophy is non-negotiable;Experience performing and/or teaching music is highly preferred;Minimum of two years teaching experience in an urban public school or charter school setting preferred;Drive to improve the minds and lives of students in and out of the classroom;Proven track-record of high achievement in the classroom;Mastery of and enthusiasm for academic subjects; andEvidence of self-motivation and willingness to be a team player.
Additional InformationOur people are what make us Uncommon.
We offer competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits that support the personal health, wellness, and finances of our staff and their families.
Our compensation philosophy values equity & fairness and attracting & retaining top talent.CompensationCompensation for this role is between $72,000 to $115,000.Starting pay is determined using various factors including but not limited to relevant full-time teaching experience, education certifications, and tenure with Uncommon Schools.
Candidates without full-time Teaching experience will likely have a starting salary of $72,000.
BenefitsGenerous paid time off inclusive of sick time, paid holidays, and 10 weeks of paid breaks (Spring, Winter, and Summer).
Extensive, best-in-class training and development Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans + pre-tax flexible spending (FSA), dependent care (DCFSA), and health saving accounts (HSA)Financial Planning403(b) retirement savings program + employer matchPaid leave of absence options (parental, medical, disability, etc.)Mental health and counseling support + wellness benefits*A detailed list of all benefits is located HERE.
At Uncommon, we believe that a supportive and welcoming environment helps our students, staff, and community thrive.
We are dedicated to building a team that brings a wide range of perspectives and experiences, reflective of the communities we serve---with over 70% of our staff identifying as people of color.
Our organization values respect and open dialogue on important topics that shape our school culture.As an equal opportunity employer, Uncommon provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
We also ensure that individuals with disabilities receive all privileges and benefits associated with employment and are provided reasonable accommodations for the interview process and to perform core job functions.
If you would like to request an accommodation, please email [email protected].
Hiring Start Time: RY 26-27
Market context
New York classroom teacher demand remains steady
In New York, classroom teacher roles are typically shaped by steady school staffing needs and competition for educators who can demonstrate strong instruction and classroom leadership. This role is competitive because it calls for advanced chess knowledge, proven teaching experience, and the ability to manage multiple responsibilities while supporting student success. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this platform to save research time, then tailor your application to show concrete teaching results and leadership examples.
