2026-2027 Para Pro - Classroom (Mariachi)

Santa Fe South Public Schools•Oklahoma City, OK

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Mariachi Paraprofessional works alongside the Mariachi instructor to support a high-quality, engaging Mariachi program for Santa Fe South High School students. This is a hands-on instructional support position for someone who brings both musical skill and a desire to work directly with young people. The Mariachi Paraprofessional assists with classroom instruction, individual and small-group support, sectionals, rehearsals, musical preparation, instrument management, and performance logistics. The ideal candidate understands that a successful Mariachi program is about more than preparing for performances. Through consistent instruction, encouragement, high expectations, and meaningful musical experiences, this individual will help students develop technical skill, confidence, discipline, teamwork, cultural appreciation, and pride in their work.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Knowledge of and experience with Mariachi music and performance.
Demonstrated proficiency on at least one Mariachi instrument and/or as a Mariachi vocalist.
Ability to work effectively with high school students and adult colleagues.
Ability to meet all district and state requirements for employment as a paraprofessional: High school diploma or GED
Meets 1 of the following requirements: Completion of at least 48 college credit hours.
Possession of an associate's degree (or higher).
Successful completion of the Oklahoma General Education Test (OGET).
Passing score on the Praxis ParaPro Assessment (455 or higher).
Achievement of a Bronze level or higher on the WorkKeys Assessment.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience performing Mariachi music in an ensemble or professional setting.
Previous experience teaching, coaching, or providing musical instruction.
Experience working with middle or high school students or in an educational setting.
Proficiency on one or more traditional Mariachi instruments, such as violin, trumpet, guitar, vihuela, or guitarrón.
Experience providing vocal instruction or demonstrations.
Experience leading sectionals, rehearsals, or small ensembles.
Experience arranging or adapting music for ensembles.
Experience with basic instrument maintenance and repair.
Experience coordinating or supporting concerts, performances, competitions, festivals, or other live events.
Bilingual English/Spanish skills are a plus.

Responsibilities

Assist the Mariachi instructor with daily classroom instruction, rehearsals, and other instructional activities.
Provide instrumental and/or vocal demonstrations to reinforce skills and concepts taught by the Mariachi instructor.
Work with individual students and small groups to provide additional instruction, remediation, practice, and skill development.
Lead instrument-specific sectionals, rehearsals, or practice sessions as directed by the Mariachi instructor.
Support students in developing proper instrumental and vocal technique, music literacy, musicality, ensemble skills, and performance practices.
Provide tutoring and academic support related to Mariachi coursework, assignments, and performance preparation.
Help students develop effective rehearsal habits, personal responsibility, and confidence as musicians and performers.
Monitor student progress and communicate student needs, successes, or concerns to the Mariachi instructor.
Support appropriate student behavior and help maintain a positive, focused, and productive classroom and rehearsal environment.
Assist with arranging and adapting musical selections to meet the instructional needs and skill levels of students.
Help prepare music, rehearsal materials, and other instructional resources.
Support the Mariachi instructor in preparing students and ensembles for concerts, festivals, competitions, community events, and other performances.
Assist with rehearsals before performances and provide additional coaching to students as needed.
Help maintain the musical and cultural integrity of the Mariachi program while creating an accessible and engaging experience for students at varying levels of musical development.
Support the continued growth and development of the Mariachi program and encourage student participation and commitment.
Assist with the maintenance, organization, cataloging, distribution, and inventory of Mariachi instruments, music, equipment, and other program materials.
Inspect instruments and equipment regularly and identify maintenance or repair needs.
Perform basic instrument maintenance and repairs when appropriate and communicate needs for professional repair or replacement.
Help establish systems that ensure instruments and equipment are properly used, stored, maintained, and accounted for.
Prepare the classroom and rehearsal space for instruction and help ensure materials and equipment are ready for effective use of instructional time.
Assist with maintaining accurate student attendance and other program records as assigned.
Assist with planning and coordinating concerts, festivals, competitions, school events, community performances, and other Mariachi activities.
Prepare and organize performance scripts, programs, schedules, itineraries, music, equipment lists, and other logistical materials.
Assist with loading, transporting, setting up, and organizing instruments and equipment for performances.
Support transportation arrangements and other performance-related logistics in coordination with appropriate school personnel.
Supervise and support students during rehearsals, performances, travel, and other program activities as assigned.
Help ensure students are prepared, organized, appropriately equipped, and ready to represent Santa Fe South with excellence during performances and community events.
Be available for occasional evening, weekend, or off-campus performances and activities as required by the program.
Work closely with the Mariachi instructor to support the vision, expectations, and daily operation of the program.
Collaborate professionally with teachers, administrators, school staff, families, and community partners.
Build positive, respectful relationships with students and contribute to a classroom culture where students feel known, supported, and challenged.
Model professionalism, reliability, flexibility, and enthusiasm for students.
Support school-wide expectations, procedures, and initiatives.
Maintain appropriate confidentiality regarding students and school information.
Perform other duties related to the Mariachi program or student support as assigned.