What are the responsibilities and job description for the Elementary School Music Director position at Campus School of Smith College?
At the lab school of Smith College, hands-on learning sparks intellectual engagement, research findings inform modern methods, and transformative relationships enrich masterful teaching. We are a progressive Kindergarten through sixth grade elementary school located in the heart of Northampton, MA.
As part of the Campus School teaching team, you will be working alongside the faculty in the Department of Education and Child Study and you will be a member of the staff at Smith College, one of the largest women’s colleges in the country, and part of the Five College Consortium including the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst College, Mount Holyoke College and Hampshire College.
In this role you will assume primary responsibility for developing and implementing a music curriculum for students in grades K-6 that is consistent with the Campus School philosophy, goals and curriculum guidelines.
The Campus School is committed to taking appropriate actions to support a diverse workforce and participate in the College's efforts to create a respectful, inclusive, and welcoming work environment.
Essential Functions
Classroom:
Plan and implement a hands-on, interactive curriculum appropriate for elementary school students. Teach in a collaborative, in-person environment. Consult with and assist supervising teachers to complement and integrate with their units of study. Communicate with parents about the nature and content of the music curriculum through electronic newsletters and updates.
Coordinate all aspects of the Chorus Program including choosing appropriate musical selections, running rehearsals (1x/week), providing piano accompaniment, and preparing for concerts throughout the year including performing at the Smith College Autumn Serenade, and Vespers Service. Oversee the direction and production of the 5th grade plays.
School Wide Responsibilities:
Help coordinate the instrumental music program through effective and timely communication with the instrumental music teachers around the planning of three concerts throughout the year.
Participate in school wide professional development programs/activities. Work collaboratively with the Gatherings Committee to plan the music for all-school assemblies throughout the year.
Attend faculty/staff meetings and school events. Engage actively in school- and campus-wide activity around Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives.
Support the mission of the college and the Department of Education and Child Study:
Cooperate and consult with Smith College faculty and students who utilize the Campus School for observations, pre-practicum and practicum experiences, fellowships, class projects and research. Other related responsibilities may be assigned by the Campus School administration, which could include assisting at arrival and dismissal, covering classes, collaborative work on accreditation self studies.
Employees are expected to participate in the College's efforts to create a respectful, inclusive, and welcoming work environment.
Minimum Qualifications (knowledge, skills, education, experience, certifications, licenses)
Bachelor’s degree; substantive classroom teaching experience, music teaching experience; ability and desire to collaborate with teachers and and work with students in an elementary school setting.
Experience working with diverse backgrounds.
Preferred Qualifications
Graduate degree preferred.
Skills
Passion for and strong ability in music (specifically with piano). Ability to form positive and supportive relationships with children and adults. Ability to be flexible and work as a member of a team. Ability to communicate clearly with children, families, and colleagues.