Position Start Date: 2024-25 school year

About MICDS

MICDS has a rich and distinctive history spanning more than 150 years. A leader in independent education, MICDS is a college-prep, coeducational school for grades JK-12. Our mission is to help students discover their unique talents, preparing them for higher education and a life of purpose and service as engaged citizens in our ever-changing world.

Employee Benefits

MICDS offers employees a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits plan, including a generous 403(b) retirement plan where the School contributes 8% of salary with an employee’s 3% contribution; medical, dental and vision insurance; flexible spending accounts and long term care insurance; life insurance and short-term and long-term disability insurances; tuition benefit; paid leaves; access to a fitness center; and free lunch.

Application Process

For immediate consideration, complete our online application at https://www.micds.org/our-school/career-opportunities/ and upload a copy of your cover letter, resume, and statement of teaching philosophy.

JOB SUMMARY

MICDS is seeking a full-time instrumental music educator to join our Performing Arts team, teaching Middle and Upper Schools orchestra (strings) classes and serving as a collaborative pianist for the Choir program. Orchestra teaching includes being a central member of the teaching team for a growing strings/orchestra program, including being lead teacher for 5th, 6th and 7th Grade orchestra classes, and one of the Upper School orchestras. This position involves working in close collaboration in a team with the assistant teacher, the director of orchestras, and the extended day strings teacher to help develop and deepen a vibrant and meaningful orchestra program. The ideal candidate will have strong musicianship, training in music education, and classroom teaching experience with particular strength in beginning and intermediate level orchestra. Essential musicianship skills include knowledge of best practices in strings methods, programming ability for repertoire that is both appropriate and appealing to beginning and intermediate orchestra students, and classroom teaching experience for both upper and lower strings instruments. This person will also be a skilled pianist interested in playing with our choirs. Preference is given to a candidate who has knowledge of choral music education and experience as a choral collaborative pianist. As a member of a team of over 20 teaching artists and a part of the larger MICDS School community, the ideal candidate will demonstrate effective collaboration with colleagues in a shared goal of creating and maintaining a student-centered music program. MICDS encourages ongoing professional growth and seeks faculty with a strong interest in implementing new curriculum and pedagogies aligned with highly effective teaching practices as well as a commitment to meeting the needs of a diverse group of learners. Preference is given to candidates with a bachelor’s degree in Music or Music Education, master’s preferred, and at least two years experience teaching classroom orchestra at the Middle and Upper School levels.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Works with the department chair and curricular team to plan, document, evaluate, and revise curriculum.

• Selects and develops related print and online course materials.

• Creates effective assessment tools to support student achievement and growth.

• Implements effective classroom management strategies to ensure a productive learning environment.

• Evaluates, documents and communicates student progress through reporting systems and conferences.

• Attends faculty, grade level and departmental meetings and supervisory duties.

• Serves as grade level advisor for 10-12 students and implements grade level programming and advisory curriculum.

• Assists and supports students outside of class as needed.

• Communicates student progress consistently with parents and guardians.

• Collaborates effectively with departmental and grade level teams as well as student support services personnel.

• Participates in the MICDS professional development framework and pursues outside opportunities to stay current with best practices.

• Serves on divisional and school-wide curriculum and program committees.

• Other projects and responsibilities may be added at the school’s discretion.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Music or Music Education required and master’s preferred

• Expertise in beginning and intermediate strings methods

• Teaching experience in an orchestra classroom that includes violin, viola, cello, and bass

• Solid collaborative piano skills for both classroom rehearsal and concerts

• Demonstrated commitment to inclusive and diverse music curriculum

• Ability to work in an environment that embraces a diverse community of students, educators, parents, and alumni

• Experience working in a one-to-one laptop environment or relevant technology skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

• Must enjoy working and learning with children

OTHER INFORMATION

• A criminal history and background check is required and must be successfully completed prior to employment.

• May work at a desk and computer for extended periods of time.

• Work primarily in a traditional climate controlled classroom environment.

• Work intermittently in outside weather conditions, including extreme heat and cold.