Music / Electives Teacher (K-8)

Position: Music / Electives Teacher

All inquiries should be sent to: CareersatOTA@gmail.com

Primary Purpose:  
The Music / Electives Teacher designs and delivers a comprehensive, developmentally appropriate general music program for students in grades K-8, and builds the curriculum, materials, routines, and performance traditions that will carry the program forward. The teacher fosters a safe, inclusive, and joyful learning environment that develops musical skills, creativity, confidence, and a lifelong appreciation of music, while aligning instruction with Oregon arts standards and OTA's mission.

Qualifications:

Education & Licensure

• Training or professional experience in music education or music performance
• Licensure or registration eligibility and qualifications will be verified prior to final selection
• Bachelor's degree in Music Education, Music, or a closely related field, or equivalent professional experience in music is preferred
• Criminal Justice fingerprint clearance required prior to employment

Experience

• Experience teaching music or leading musical activities with children, preferably across elementary or middle grades, is preferred
• Experience building or rebuilding a school or community music program is a plus
• New and early-career educators and working musicians who meet the qualification requirements are encouraged to apply

Essential Job Responsibilities

Instruction & Curriculum

• Plan, prepare, and deliver engaging general music lessons for students in grades K-8 that are developmentally appropriate and sequenced to build skills progressively across grade levels
• Align instruction with Oregon arts content standards for music, incorporating singing, movement, listening, instruments, and foundational music literacy
• Differentiate instruction and adapt activities to meet the needs of all learners, including students with IEPs, 504 plans, and diverse abilities.
• Teach middle school elective sections (music electives, with the possibility of a band or theater component) as the assignment is configured
• Establish and maintain a positive, orderly learning climate in the music room and in all activity and performance spaces.

Program Building

• Build up OTA's music program from the beginning: develop the curriculum scope and sequence, select materials, and establish the routines and structures that allow the program to grow in future years.
• Inventory, assess, and organize the school's existing collection of instruments, determine what is usable, and recommend repairs, replacements, and purchases within approved budget parameters
• Advise the School Director and as requested, the Board on the program's needs, growth options, and priorities

Performances & School Community

• Plan and produce at least two K-5 music programs during the school year, anticipated as a winter program and a spring program, for families and the school community
• Develop performance and showcase opportunities for middle school students as the program grows
• Support schoolwide events and celebrations where music enriches the school community

Assessment & Communication

• Assess student progress using appropriate formative measures and maintain accurate records
• Provide timely, constructive feedback to students and communicate progress to families and staff
• Communicate professionally and regularly with parents, colleagues, and the School Director regarding student learning, behavior, and program activities

Professional Responsibilities

• Comply with all OTA policies, the OTA Charter Contract, Oregon Department of Education requirements, and applicable state and federal laws and regulations
• Participate in staff meetings, professional development, and required training
• Maintain confidentiality of student and school information consistent with FERPA and Board policy
• Perform other duties as assigned by the School Director consistent with the responsibilities of the position

Special Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of age-appropriate music curriculum, vocal and instrumental fundamentals, and effective instructional and classroom management strategies
• Proficiency on one or more instruments and comfort leading both vocal and instrumental instruction preferred
• Ability to plan and deliver engaging, inclusive, and well-organized lessons for a wide range of ages and abilities
• Strong classroom and behavior management skills in active, large-group settings
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills with students, families, and colleagues
• Organizational skills to manage instruments, materials, records, and performance logistics efficiently

Salary Range: $45,000 - $55,000 

Job Availability:  August 31, 2026

Completed applications must include:

• Formal letter of interest addressing the required qualifications and your vision for Oregon Trail Academy
• Current résumé
• Three (3) current letters of recommendation

Oregon Trail Academy is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Educator. Reasonable accommodations for application opportunity will be provided upon request to the Personnel Department (503) 668-5541. Speech/hearing impaired assistance is available through Oregon Relay at 1-800-735-2900.