Lower School Music Teacher

About the School

St. Michael’s Catholic Preparatory School is an outstanding co-educational Independent Catholic school located in the hills of southwest Austin, Texas, serving students from Pre-Kindergarten through 12th grade. The school is divided into three divisions: Lower School (PreK 3–4th grades), Middle School (5–8th grades), and Upper School (9–12th grades). We are distinguished by our Catholic tradition, a welcoming and diverse community, excellent academic programs, and a variety of extracurricular activities. As a technology-rich school, teachers and staff are expected to demonstrate meaningful skill with technology and enthusiasm for its growth to create authentic learning experiences.

Our mission is to cultivate a transformative, Independent school experience rooted in Catholic spirituality, seeking excellence in every pursuit and forming virtuous leaders who positively impact the world. We are anchored by Catholic Social Teachings (CST) and promote inclusion, advocating for a society based on love and justice where all people have inherent dignity. We celebrate and support differences, fostering a diverse and inclusive working and learning environment.

About the Role

St. Michael’s Prep seeks a dynamic, experienced, collaborative, and creative Lower School Music Teacher for Pre-K 3 through 3rd grade. This is a full-time, 10-month position beginning in August 2026. The ideal candidate will possess an understanding of music theory and composition and will work with a team of three music educators to create and manage annual school-wide performances, as well as support seasonal grade-level performances.

Responsibilities

• Implement music lessons that emphasize the joy in learning.
• Conduct music classes following a curriculum that develops musical skills and appreciation for diverse musical genres and cultures while engaging all students.
• Direct school performances and special events throughout the school year.
• Manage classroom behavior using social-emotional learning best practices (Responsive Classroom) and process-based learning to create a positive, inclusive environment that fosters significance, belonging, and fun.
• Collaborate with special area and classroom teachers to integrate music into core curriculum and support school-wide initiatives.
• Use a variety of instructional techniques to meet the learning needs of all students.
• Maintain instruments and equipment, ensuring proper care, storage, and safety of all musical materials and technology.
• Assess student progress through observation, participation, and performance-based assessments.
• Maintain accurate records and communicate with families about student growth.
• Perform assigned duties such as carpool, lunch, and recess supervision.
• Participate in shared faculty responsibilities as assigned by the Head of Lower School.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• At least two years of classroom teaching experience.
• Knowledge and understanding of music pedagogy and child development across early childhood and elementary grades.
• Strong musical ability with proficiency in at least one instrument; keyboard and/or guitar skills strongly preferred.
• Orff or Kodaly certifications preferred.

Skills

• Growth mindset with a positive attitude and willingness to learn new skills flexibly and creatively.
• Willingness to integrate and learn new technology platforms and applications meaningfully.
• Experience in social-emotional learning, project-based learning, STEAM integration, and differentiated instruction.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, along with strong organizational and time-management abilities.
• Collaborative and inquisitive approach to teaching with excellent interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to work on a team.