K-8 Music Teacher

Distinctive Schools•Chicago, IL

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Distinctive Schools seeks a K-8 Music Teacher who cultivates a love for learning through strong relationships, high expectations, and the belief that every student can achieve. The teacher delivers engaging, rigorous instruction aligned with grade-level standards and the core curriculum, and provides opportunities for students to apply what they learn. Teachers use checks for understanding, student work, and assessments to make instructional adjustments and address learning gaps. They prepare individually and collaboratively, build strong classroom routines and communities, and communicate regularly with students and families about progress. Distinctive Schools supports teacher growth through cycles of practice and feedback. The role is based in Chicago, Illinois, reports to the Principal, and is scheduled to start in November 2026. The starting salary for certified teachers is $70,000.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree.
Valid Professional Educator License with the Illinois State Board of Education, or proof of enrollment in a teacher certification program within 30 days of employment.
Content Area Endorsement.
Ability to review and analyze student and campus data from multiple sources.
Proficiency with cloud-based software solutions, including Google Suite.
Ability to learn digital tools and programs as needed for the position.
Ability to meet the stated physical demands, including occasional lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling; some stooping, kneeling, crouching, and/or crawling; and significant fine finger dexterity.

Responsibilities

Maintain a student-centered perspective and believe all students can learn and achieve.
Contribute to campus and network equity work and engage in culturally responsive decision-making.
Foster belonging, positive relationships, and a positive climate and culture with students, families, and staff; serve as a positive role model.
Implement the Distinctive Schools model and provide consistent opportunities for students to work on grade-appropriate assignments using core curriculum, resources, and strategies, with frequent checks for understanding.
Deliver strong instruction that engages students and places the cognitive work on them.
Use core instructional tools to design, prepare, and deliver dynamic lessons aligned with grade-level standards.
Commit to personalized, student-centered learning that integrates students’ needs, strengths, and interests.
Maintain an inventory of instructional materials and accurate, complete records of student progress and development.
Analyze assessments and progress-monitoring data to plan responses, adjust instruction, and support mastery of grade-level standards.
Assess students daily, weekly, and at the ends of units, and analyze assessment data through campus and network systems.
Participate in coaching, mentoring, professional development, and required meetings.
Maintain an organized, welcoming classroom that provides students with belonging, joy, hope, and safety.
Manage classroom procedures, routines, and rituals that maximize learning.
Communicate effectively and frequently with students and families about progress.
Use a restorative justice approach to discipline and behavior management in alignment with campus and network practices.
Collaborate with colleagues to support student growth and achievement.
Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the Principal.
Travel as required for training, professional development, and collaboration.