Marching Band - Percussion-Pit Instructor (Spring 2026)

Syracuse City School District•Syracuse, NY

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Syracuse City School District is seeking a dedicated and diverse team of school leaders and teachers to partner with them in achieving their goals of improving student achievement. The district serves over 19,000 students across 34 schools and 4 alternative education programs, with a significant percentage qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch, receiving special education services, or being students of color. The district offers a comprehensive athletic program for students in grades 7-12, emphasizing skill development, participation, discipline, enjoyment, competition, and the value of hard work. The coaching staff is composed of certified, dedicated individuals who are committed to the success and well-being of student athletes. The modified program for grades 7-8 focuses on training and participation rather than winning, encouraging large team sizes. High school programs (freshman, Junior Varsity, and Varsity) aim for higher refinement of skills and competition, stressing academics, goal setting, teamwork, leadership, and sportsmanship.

Requirements

Extracurricular contract
Supervision of the Director
Planning and instruction of the marching band’s percussion and auxiliary instrumental students
Certified coaching staff
Work with student athletes
Discipline, enjoyment of play, competition, and dedication to the value that hard work will produce rewards
Development of academics, goal setting, teamwork, leadership and sportsmanship
Instruction at student's level
Individualization of instruction
Warm-ups and stick work
Practice, play and perform introduced materials
Attend all rehearsals, sectionals and performances
Assist students in sectionals and whole group rehearsals
Work with Director during auditions
Provide input into placement of students on instruments of the pit
Choreograph sticking and drum line movement to match the drill (visuals)
Assist Director in maintaining inventories of percussion supplies, materials, and equipment
Adjust and maintain percussion instruments
Monitor and control student behavior according to established procedures
Share concerns with the Director

Responsibilities

Assist in the instructional delivery of the pit section of the band.
Instruct students on their instrument, at their level, and ensures each student’s progress by providing as much individualization as possible (including warm-ups and stick work).
Engage students to practice, play and perform introduced materials.
Attend all rehearsals, sectionals and performances actively participating in assisting students in sectionals and whole group rehearsals.
Work with the Director during auditions and provide input into placement of students on instruments of the pit.
Choreograph sticking and drum line movement to match the drill (visuals).
Assist Director in maintaining inventories of percussion supplies, materials, and equipment; adjust and maintain percussion instruments ensuring timely availability for student use.
Monitor and control student behavior according to established procedures and share any concerns, etc. with the Director.