Performing Arts Teacher

About the role

The Performing Arts Teacher provides a dynamic and comprehensive education aligned with the New York State Learning Standards for the Arts (Music, Dance or Theatre). Through a balance of performance, composition, critical response, and connection to cultural and historical contexts, the teacher fosters students' musical understanding, creativity, and lifelong appreciation for the arts.

Responsibilities

• Creating (Standard 1)
  • Guide students in exploring and generating ideas.
  • Encourage creativity and self-expression through age-appropriate composition and performance projects.
  • Facilitate opportunities for students to refine and document their ideas using strategies appropriate to the subject.
• Performing (Standard 2)
  • Teach and model performance techniques, ensuring students understand performance criteria.
  • Lead rehearsals and performances that demonstrate students' growth and achievement.
  • Select and prepare repertoire that reflects diverse cultures, genres, and skill levels.
  • Develop students' ensemble and solo performance skills, promoting discipline, collaboration, and stage presence.
• Responding (Standard 3)
  • Teach students to analyze, interpret, and evaluate the performing art using discipline-specific vocabulary.
  • Engage students in discussions about how composers and performers use the elements of music to communicate meaning.
  • Facilitate listening and reflection activities that connect music to mood, story, or intent.
• Connecting (Standard 4)
  • Integrate arts learning with other disciplines and real-world experiences, helping students make connections between the arts and culture, history, and personal identity.
  • Incorporate diverse performing arts traditions and styles to reflect the global and multicultural nature of the arts.
  • Encourage students to recognize the role of the arts in communities, civic life, and personal expression.
• Professional and Instructional Practices
  • Design and implement lesson plans that align with NYS Learning Standards for the Arts - Music, Dance or Theatre and district curriculum frameworks.
  • Use formative and summative assessments to measure student progress and guide instruction.
  • Maintain a safe, inclusive, and positive classroom environment that encourages risk-taking and creativity.
  • Communicate regularly with families regarding student progress and upcoming performances.
  • Collaborate with colleagues to support interdisciplinary learning and school events.
  • Maintain equipment and materials in good condition.
• Complete weekly lesson plans.
• Attend and participate in school-wide professional development sessions and implement strategies in the classroom.
• Develop positive relationships with parents, students, and faculty.
• Follow the classroom and school-wide schedule created by the Leadership Team.
• Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of all students.
• Implement CSI Action Plan items.
• Communicate student data to the leadership team as well as parents and students (data meetings, Parent Teacher Conferences, progress reports, report cards).
• Participate in school events and extracurricular activities.
• Follow school-wide behavior management systems.
• Adhere to the KCCS Employee and Student/Parent handbook.
• Establish effective classroom management techniques and maintain a safe, clean, organized learning environment free from hazards.
• Use technology to enhance planning and instruction.
• Participate in Mentor/Coaching program as necessary.
• Participate in 8 days of pre-service training at the start of each school year.
• Keep evidence and artifacts that support the goals in the KCCS accountability plan.
• All staff will receive annual reviews at the end of each school year and will be held accountable for student achievement data.
• Other duties as assigned (arrival, dismissal, lunch coverage, etc.).

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in education or related field (Master's preferred).
• Valid New York State Teaching Certification in Music, Dance or Theatre (PreK-12) (preferred).
• Prior classroom teaching and performance experience preferred.

Skills

• Strong musicianship and ability to teach multiple instruments and/or vocal techniques.
• Familiarity with NYS Arts Standards and developmentally appropriate music instruction.
• Ability to integrate technology and digital tools for music creation and performance.
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Welcoming, warm disposition.
• Experience in an urban setting preferred.

Pay

Salary range: $43,000 – $81,000