Music Teacher (Part-Time)

About the role

The Music Teacher's main focus is building an instrumental music program for HRCS's older students — primarily middle schoolers — culminating in a small band or ensemble (woodwinds, brass, percussion, guitar, strings, or a mix — we're open to what the group is drawn to and what the teacher can support). Students learn to play an instrument, build ensemble skills, and work toward informal performances. Depending on interest, capacity, and your proposed model, the role may also include sessions for younger grades (e.g., 3rd–5th, and possibly K–2). This role is intentionally a little open-ended: we're looking for a musician who loves working with kids and can help shape what an HRCS band program looks like. Interested applicants are encouraged to send a letter of interest along with a brief proposal for how they'd structure an instrumental program here — or simply reach out to set up a time to brainstorm together.

What You'll Do

• Design and lead an instrumental music program for HRCS's older students, building toward a small band/ensemble — woodwinds, brass, percussion, guitar, strings, or a mix, depending on student interest.
• Teach foundational instrumental technique and ensemble skills, with sessions building toward informal performances or showcases.
• Help students and families navigate instrument acquisition — guidance on rental options, sizing/fit, and instrument care — coordinating with the Operations team on logistics as needed.
• Help determine, in partnership with the Executive Director, whether and how the program extends to younger grades (e.g., 3rd–5th and/or K–2), based on your proposed model and program capacity.
• Incorporate nature-based and place-based music experiences where possible, connecting music-making to HRCS's outdoor, community-centered mission.
• Support school community events (performances, showcases, celebrations) by preparing and presenting student music.

We're Looking For Someone Who…

• Has experience teaching or coaching instrumental music — woodwinds, brass, guitar, strings, or similar — ideally with upper-elementary or middle school students.
• Can help build a program from the ground up: comfortable proposing structure, repertoire, and pacing rather than following a prescribed curriculum.
• Is willing to help students and families navigate instrument rentals and care.
• Is flexible about scope — this role may expand to include younger grades over time.
• Believes in HRCS's mission of outdoor, community-centered learning.

Compensation

$36.37–$47.36/hour, aligned with the HRCS teacher salary schedule.

Benefits

• Colorado HWFA paid sick leave
• FAMLI paid family and medical leave
• PERA retirement
• Most Fridays off

This part-time position is not eligible for PTO or the ICHRA health-insurance contribution.

Schedule

Part-time, non-exempt. Hours to be scoped with the successful candidate. For reference, our Art Teacher currently meets each of our three classes for one hour every other Tuesday (about twice a month); a rehearsing band program would likely need a more frequent cadence — somewhere between once or twice a week and every other week. We're open to a hybrid model (in-person and virtual), and welcome candidates to propose the structure that would work best.

How To Apply

To apply, send a letter of interest, resume, and a brief proposal for how you'd approach an HRCS instrumental program (or just reach out to set up a brainstorm conversation) to jobs@highrockiescommunityschool.org.