Elementary Music Teacher

Elementary School Music Teacher

Under the general supervision of the School Principal, to develop students' interest, abilities, talent, skills, understanding, and appreciation of art and music. To implement the approved diocesan art and music curricula by developing lesson plans and modeling the necessary skills to perform tasks. To teach pupils at the elementary level basic academic, social, and other formative skills in keeping with the school's Catholic character and Gospel values.

Reports to: Principal

Essential Functions:

• Develops and administers music education curricula consistent with Diocesan and school goals and objectives.
• Develops lesson plans and instructional materials and translates lesson plans into learning experiences to best utilize the available time.
• Promotes a classroom environment that is safe and conducive to student learning in individualized and small group instruction.
• Conducts ongoing assessment of student musical knowledge and skills and modifies instructional methods to fit individual students' needs, including students with special needs.
• Prepares progress reports based on these assessments.
• Selects and requisitions appropriate art and music supplies, tools, instruments, and other equipment.
• Maintains inventory records and ensures equipment is in good order.
• Instructs pupils in proper care and use of supplies, tools, instruments, and other equipment.
• Develops a balanced music program and lessons to organize class time so that students have adequate time for preparation, rehearsal, and instruction.
• Utilizes a repertoire of all types of music literature, as appropriate.
• Plans, coordinates rehearsals for, and directs students in musical programs and performances outside the classroom.
• May sponsor outside musicians.
• Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops, professional meetings, or by conducting research.
• Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping, grading, and reporting for all student activities, achievement, and attendance as required by school procedures and applicable laws.
• Encourages parental involvement in students' education and ensures effective communication with students and parents.
• Ensures that student conduct conforms to the school's standards and establishes and maintains standards of student behavior needed to ensure a productive learning atmosphere.
• Coordinates with other professional staff members and participates in faculty meetings and committees.

Responsibilities/Tasks for: Elementary School Teacher

• Prepare for assigned classes and show written evidence of preparation upon the request of immediate supervisors.
• Plan and conduct activities for a balanced program of instruction, demonstration, and work time that provides students with opportunities to observe, question, and investigate.
• Confer with other staff members to plan and schedule lessons promoting learning while following approved curricula.
• Prepare objectives and outlines for courses of study, following curriculum guidelines and requirements of the state, diocese, and school.
• Establish clear objectives for all lessons, units, and projects, and communicate those objectives to students.
• Prepare students for later grades by encouraging them to explore learning opportunities and persevere with challenging tasks.
• Select, store, order, issue, and inventory classroom equipment, materials, and supplies.
• Prepare, organize, and label materials.
• Prepare the classroom for class activities.
• Provide a variety of materials and resources for children to explore, manipulate, and use in learning activities and in imaginative play.
• Plan and supervise class projects, field trips, visits by guest speakers, or other experiential activities.
• Guide students in learning from those activities.
• Instruct students individually and in groups using various teaching methods such as lectures, discussions, and demonstrations.
• Organize and lead activities such as games, arts and crafts, music, and storytelling, to promote physical, mental, and social development.
• Read books to entire classes or small groups.
• Use computers, audiovisual aids, and other equipment and materials to supplement presentations.
• Instruct and monitor students in the use and care of equipment and materials to prevent injuries and damage.
• Assign and grade classwork and homework.
• Prepare, administer, and grade tests and assignments to evaluate students' progress.
• Administer standardized ability and achievement tests and interpret results to determine student strengths and areas of need.
• Observe and evaluate students' performance, behavior, social development, and physical health.
• Adapt teaching methods and instructional materials to meet students' varying needs and interests.
• Guide and counsel students with adjustment issues, academic problems, and/or special academic interests.
• Prepare and implement remedial programs for students requiring extra help.
• Confer with parents or guardians, teachers, counselors, administrators, and other professionals to discuss and resolve students' progress, needs, behavioral issues, and academic problems.
• Meet with parents and guardians to discuss their children's progress, determine their priorities, and evaluate their resource needs.
• Maintain accurate and complete student records as required by laws, diocesan policies, and administrative regulations.
• Prepare reports on students and activities as required by the administration.
• Establish and enforce rules for behavior and procedures for maintaining order among the students for whom they are responsible.
• Enforce administration policies and rules governing students.
• Attend staff meetings and serve on committees as required.
• Collaborate with other teachers and administrators in the development, evaluation, and revision of elementary school programs.
• Maintain and improve professional competence for Pennsylvania Act 48 requirements by attending professional meetings, educational conferences, and teacher training workshops.
• Supervise, evaluate, and plan assignments for teacher assistants and volunteers.
• Involve parent volunteers and older students in children's activities to facilitate involvement in focused, complex play.
• Provide disabled students with assistive devices, supportive technology, and assistance accessing facilities such as restrooms.
• Perform administrative duties such as assisting in school libraries, hall and cafeteria monitoring, and bus loading and unloading.
• Sponsor extracurricular activities such as clubs, student organizations, and academic contests.
• Prepare and supervise students for Mass as well as other sacramental preparations.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that an employee must meet to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Must have the ability to sit and stand for extended periods of time. Must be able to perform all the technological requirements of classroom management. Must be able to hear and understand speech at normal classroom levels and in an outdoor environment. Must be able to speak in audible tones so that others may understand clearly in both a normal classroom environment and in an outdoor setting. Must have the physical ability to lift up to 25 pounds. Must be able to bend, stoop, climb stairs, and reach overhead.

Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Duties are normally in a school/classroom environment. Duties may be occasionally on field trips away from school. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Minimum Qualifications:

Must possess a bachelor's degree or higher, preferably in art, music, elementary education, or a related field. Instructional certification is preferred. Otherwise, be willing to work towards obtaining one. Must possess the ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing. Must possess the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, staff, parents, and the community. Must comply with PA State clearance requirements. Must be willing to respect the Catholic Church and follow our code of conduct.