Music Teacher, Upper School

Making Waves Academy • Richmond, CA

75d

About The Position

As the Upper School Music Teacher, you are not just teaching a subject; you are building and directing a performance pipeline that prepares Wave-Makers for college and beyond. Your daily commitment is to excellence, in the classroom and on stage.

You will join a team dedicated to rigorously and holistically preparing students from the 5th grade to their ultimate career success. Our bold mission is to interrupt inequity by supporting every Wave-Maker's journey to a rewarding life dream. As an employee, you will uphold high expectations for academics and behavior within a close-knit, supportive community. You will be instrumental in fostering essential durable skills like critical thinking and self-advocacy, crucial for any field. This is more than a job; it’s a commitment to empowering students to lead fulfilling lives, have rewarding careers and give back to their respective communities to recycle their success.
We are looking for leaders and advocates ready to make a lasting impact.

Requirements

• Proficiency in musical instruments and expert knowledge of music theory, advanced harmony, and comprehensive music history.
• California Single or Multiple Subject Teaching Credential in the subject area and English Learner (EL) Authorization Certificate is desired. Applicants without credentials or an EL designation, as well as those who are eligible or currently enrolled in a CTC-approved program, will also be considered.
• Bachelor’s degree in music education, music theory, or a related field. A master’s degree is strongly preferred.
• Teaching experience is desirable, but related work experience will be considered.
• Ability to manage student behavior and drive high engagement in a structured, professional environment.
• Comfort with educational platforms (Canvas, PowerSchool, Google Suite).
• You must actively support our mission, uphold strict confidentiality, and be willing to participate in campus life, including weekly supervision duties.
• Excellent communication skills, flexibility, and a high degree of patience are non-negotiable.

Nice To Haves

• California Single or Multiple Subject Teaching Credential in the subject area and English Learner (EL) Authorization Certificate is desired.
• Teaching experience is desirable
• Master’s degree is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Creating and implementing lesson plans: Lessons that cover music theory, types of music, and practical instruction with musical instruments
• Lead engaging music classes: General music, choral, and instrumental music that support students’ understanding of music fundamentals.
• Assess student progress: Evaluate student performance and track student progress in areas such as rhythm, pitch, and instrumental skills.
• Coordinate musical performances: Organize musical performances to provide students with opportunities to perform and showcase their skills.
• Maintain a positive learning environment: Establish a supportive learning environment that encourages creativity, respect, and a love for music.
• Prepare instructional materials: Utilize a variety of instructional materials to accommodate diverse learning styles and promote music appreciation.

Benefits

• competitive, above-market salaries
• dedicated retirement savings plan
• robust, comprehensive 100% paid for Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance options for you and your family
• employee assistance programs
• generous Paid Time Off (PTO), plus all school holidays and breaks
• ongoing training
• dedicated collaboration time
• resources specifically designed to enhance your instructional and behavioral support expertise

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 51-100 employees