High School Band Director

KIPP • New Orleans, LA

3h • Onsite

About The Position

KIPP New Orleans Schools seeks a passionate and results-driven High School Band Director to build and lead a high-quality band program that honors and contributes to the rich musical traditions of New Orleans. From second lines to Mardi Gras parades, band programs are a cornerstone of the city’s cultural identity and a defining feature of legacy public high schools. This role is an opportunity to develop student musicianship, pride, and performance excellence while cultivating a program that is both artistically vibrant and academically aligned.
The Band Director will design and implement a comprehensive band program that includes concert band, marching band, and performance ensembles, with a clear vision for growth and sustainability.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Music Education or a related field (Master’s preferred).
• Valid Louisiana teaching certification (or ability to obtain).
• Demonstrated experience leading a high school band program, including marching band.
• Strong understanding of and appreciation for New Orleans musical traditions.
• Proven ability to grow programs and drive student participation.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States for any employer.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working in urban schools or with diverse student populations.
• Experience building programs from the ground up or significantly expanding enrollment.
• Connections to local music networks and community organizations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a compelling vision for a high school band program that reflects the cultural heritage of New Orleans and the mission of KIPP New Orleans Schools.
• Create and implement a strategic 5-year plan to grow and sustain the band program to at least 75 students, with annual enrollment growth of 10% or more, including strong recruitment, retention, and feeder middle school alignment.
• Design and implement effective recruitment strategies for middle school students with a strong focus on KIPP New Orleans middle schools.
• Build strong relationships with students, families, alumni, and community partners to support program growth and visibility.
• Plan and deliver rigorous, standards-aligned instruction in instrumental music for students at varying skill levels.
• Develop students’ technical proficiency, music literacy, and performance skills.
• Foster a joyful, disciplined, and inclusive classroom culture that promotes teamwork, leadership, and pride.
• Lead and coordinate performances at school events, community events, parades, and competitions.
• Ensure the band program actively participates in and contributes to New Orleans traditions such as second lines, Mardi Gras events, and other cultural celebrations where appropriate.
• Build partnerships with local musicians, universities, and arts organizations.
• Plan, organize, and lead an annual summer band camp, including rehearsals, logistics, staffing, and student engagement.
• Design and execute a competitive and engaging marching band season, including show design, rehearsals, and performances.
• Develop and implement strategies to recruit incoming students into the band program, including outreach to middle schools and community events.
• Maintain high levels of student engagement and retention through strong relationships and program excellence.
• Manage inventory, maintenance, and procurement of instruments, uniforms, and equipment.
• Oversee the band budget and fundraising efforts, while remaining fiscally compliant with network policies at all times.
• Coordinate travel, scheduling, and compliance with school and district policies, including oversight of all auxiliary units to ensure alignment with and consistent adherence to network expectations.
• Collaborate with school leadership and staff to align the band program with school priorities and culture.
• Communicate regularly with families about student progress, expectations, and opportunities.
• Serve as a positive ambassador for KIPP New Orleans Schools in the community.

Benefits

• 403(b) retirement plan – KNOS matches 100% of employee contribution up to the first 5% of salary and any bonuses. Vested immediately in 403(b)
• Comprehensive, customizable health coverage, including disability, life insurance, hospital indemnity, FSAs for health and dependent care, and free dental and vision for employees
• ~30 paid holidays and additional paid time off
• Opportunities for on-going professional development

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior