Falmouth Elementary School is seeking a passionate and dedicated General and Instrumental Music Teacher for Grades 3–5 to join our dynamic music department. The position includes teaching general music to students in Grades 3 and 4, as well as instrumental music to Grade 5 students through sectional instruction and full band rehearsals. The teacher will prepare students for public performances and is expected to foster a positive, inclusive learning environment.
The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in instrumental music, a solid foundation in music theory and performance techniques, and experience teaching general music. Familiarity with music education standards and the ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues across the elementary, middle, and high school levels are essential to ensure continuity in the music curriculum.
Key Responsibilities:
- Teach General Music: Develop and implement engaging lessons that support student growth, creativity and musical exploration, based on the required Maine music education standards for students in Grades 3 and 4.
- Teach Sectionals: Instruct small groups of Grade 5 students on various instruments, providing individualized instruction on techniques, tone, and musicianship to ensure development of their skills.
- Lead Band Rehearsals: Direct the Grade 5 Band in weekly rehearsals, preparing them for performances. This includes organizing practice schedules, providing guidance on performance techniques, and fostering team collaboration.
- Performance Preparation: Guide students in preparing for public performances, including concerts and school events, with an emphasis on ensemble playing, rhythmic accuracy, development of characteristic tone, and stage presence.
- Instrumental Music Instruction: Teach band students to read music, understand basic music theory, and develop their overall musical skills. Ensure that band students can play both individually and as part of an ensemble.
- Select and Read Musical Scores: Choose appropriate musical pieces that suit the skill level of the Grade 5 Band, ensuring a balance between challenge and achievable success. Lead students in understanding and interpreting the selected scores.
- Collaboration: Work closely with elementary, middle and high school instrumental music teachers to align curricula and foster a continuum of music education. Participate in departmental meetings and share best practices to support students’ musical growth.
- Student Engagement: Create a positive, engaging, and supportive classroom environment that encourages students to develop a love for music and instrumental performance.
- Assess Student Progress: Regularly evaluate student progress, providing feedback and guidance on their musical development. Communicate progress to parents and guardians as necessary.
Qualifications:
- Education: A minimum of a Bachelor's Degree in Music Education, Instrumental Music expertise is required.
- Certification: A current Maine Department of Education Endorsement 614 (Music) is required.
- Approved background check (run by the district).
- Experience: Experience teaching general and instrumental music to students, particularly at the elementary level, including organizing and conducting student performances.
- Personal Qualities: A passion for teaching music, patience, creativity, and the ability to adapt to the individual needs of students.
Skills:
- Strong proficiency in playing and teaching multiple musical instruments.
- Ability to read, interpret, and teach musical scores.
- Knowledge of classroom management and effective teaching strategies for music education.
- Ability to motivate and inspire students to perform at their best.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills for working with students, parents, and colleagues.
Work Environment: - The role is based in a school environment, requiring frequent interaction with students, staff, and parents.
- Some lifting and movement of technology equipment may be required.
Wage and Benefits:
Excellent pay commensurate with education and experience (per teacher scale). Comprehensive and generous benefits package included.
Falmouth Schools is located on a 100-acre district K-12 campus in Falmouth Maine, a coastal community bordering the city of Portland. Our campus features extensive fields, trails, gardens and hoop houses, and rich opportunities for collaboration between schools. Over the past three years, each of our three schools in the district has been a recipient of the National Blue Ribbon Award: student achievement is exemplary and the community takes great pride in all academic, co-curricular, and athletic accomplishments. Equally important is our commitment to ensuring that all members of our community feel known, respected and appreciated as we work to fulfill our District Mission: Navigating Creative Pathways to Courageous, Compassionate, and Fulfilling Lives.
Falmouth Public Schools is committed to promoting diversity, multiculturalism, and inclusion throughout our district. We encourage qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.
Application Deadline: May 21, 2025