Lead or Associate Elementary Music Teacher (26-27 School Year)

Destine Prep Charter School•Schenectady, NY

20h•Onsite

About The Position

At Destine Preparatory, a well-rounded education is considered essential for student discovery and growth, with the Specials program playing a vital role in fostering joy, curiosity, discipline, creativity, and confidence. The school is seeking an Elementary Specials Teacher for an 11-month term (August-June) who is eager to grow, collaborate, and contribute to a dynamic school community. This role is ideal for an educator passionate about working with children, developing their teaching practice, and believing in the importance of enrichment subjects for student success. The Elementary Specials Teacher is responsible for planning and delivering engaging, standards-aligned instruction in a specialized content area. This role involves close collaboration with school leadership and classroom teachers, supporting school-wide instructional and culture priorities, and gradually assuming increased instructional responsibility throughout the year. Specials Teachers may teach one or more subject blocks and provide instructional coverage, small group support, and supervision as needed to support the school community.

Requirements

Strong communication skills, especially with children and families.
The ability to stay organized, flexible, and solution-oriented in a fast-paced environment.
High emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and a reflective mindset.
A collaborative spirit and willingness to support wherever students need you most.
A strong commitment to racial equity, anti-racism, and inclusive education.
Knowledge of high-quality curriculum and NYS learning standards.
Strong instructional and classroom management skills.
Relationship-building with students, families, and colleagues.
Adaptability and openness to feedback.
Effective time management and multitasking.
Data-informed decision-making.
Discretion with confidential and sensitive information.
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
Valid NYS Teaching Certification or willingness to pursue certification in Music (Instrumental/Vocal).
Ability to work flexible hours, including some evenings and events.
Commitment to working in an inclusive, diverse school community.

Nice To Haves

At least one year of experience as a school educator in one of the certification areas above.
Experience in a charter or public school setting.
Experience working in urban school communities.

Responsibilities

Plan and deliver engaging, age-appropriate instruction in your assigned specials area.
Adapt and execute standards-aligned curriculum, assessments, and lesson plans.
Provide daily feedback to students on academic progress and character development.
Support one-on-one and small group instruction and intervention when needed.
Periodically assume increased responsibility for lesson planning and instruction.
Work closely with Lead Teachers, coaches, and school leadership to strengthen instruction.
Provide in-house substitute teaching coverage when needed.
Support grade-level teams through tutoring, grading, and instructional assistance.
Collaborate with the Culture Team to help maintain a positive, consistent school-wide culture.
Participate in curriculum development, school events, performances, and field trips.
Supervise students during classes, transitions, meals, arrival, dismissal, and after-school activities.
Help maintain a safe, structured, and welcoming learning environment.
Provide consistent rewards and consequences aligned to school culture expectations.
Serve as a trusted adult and positive role model for students.
Engage in practice-based professional development, coaching, and mentorship.
Meet regularly with school leadership to receive and implement feedback.
Observe best practices from experienced educators and continuously refine instruction.
Support data collection and reflection to inform instructional decisions.