Portland, Oregon, Elementary Music Teacher (Elementary grades PreK-5th Grade)

Department: Faculty

Reports to: Head of Early Childhood

Status: Exempt (salary) Full-time

Compensation: Based on the International Schools Salary Scale (Depending on education and classroom teaching experience)

Who We Are:

Since 1990, The International School of Portland (ISP) has been a pioneer in education, offering full language and cultural immersion. As the first International Baccalaureate (IB) elementary school in the Pacific Northwest, and one of only two schools globally providing full immersion in three separate languages under one roof, we are a truly unique institution.

Today, we proudly educate approximately 400 students from age 3 through 5th grade. Our dedicated teachers act as master facilitators, guiding students to nurture their natural love of learning by inspiring questions, encouraging them to pursue their interests, and empowering them to share knowledge.

ISP is a global microcosm, where our multi-language and cultural environment actively shapes children into open-minded, empathetic, kind, patient, and tolerant global citizens. We believe these traits encourage responsible action both within and beyond our school community.

The International School offers a unique environment where you will join an engaged school community with supportive and interactive parents, where our vibrant multicultural environment is both appreciated and celebrated. The International School is committed to small class sizes of 19 students or less; our average class size is 14 students. We are dedicated to supporting our teachers' growth, providing opportunities for professional development opportunities.

We are specifically seeking candidates who are passionate about and committed to the mission and vision of The International School. You will demonstrate the values and traits of the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program (PYP) and Learner Profile in your teaching and daily work.

If you are a highly motivated music educator ready to contribute to a thriving international school setting, we encourage you to apply.

Who We're Looking For:

We are seeking an experienced and dedicated Music Teacher with a strong background in developing and delivering dynamic and engaging music lessons. The ideal candidate will be responsible for teaching music theory, aural skills, and practical techniques to a diverse student body, fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment.

Working with our current Music and Performing Arts Specialist, you will co-create and deliver age-appropriate music instruction that fosters a deep understanding of music concepts. This includes but is not limited to guiding students through diverse musical experiences such as singing, instrumental performance, developing aural skills, creative movement to music, and active listening, ensuring a rich, cohesive, and comprehensive musical journey for all students.

You have a Bachelor's Degree in Early Elementary Teaching/Education or equivalent experience

You have a minimum of two (2) years of professional music teaching experience, preferably in an educational setting

You are proficient in playing and teaching a variety of musical instruments

You have proven expertise in music instruction

You are committed to fostering international-mindedness, global perspectives, and cross-cultural understanding through music

You are a collaborative team player with strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively with colleagues

Bonus Points If:

You have a Master's degree in Elementary Teaching/Education and/or a music endorsement

You have previous experience working in an International Baccalaureate (IB) school, experience with constructivist learning pedagogy or Inquiry Based-Primary Years Program (PYP) pedagogy.

You are Level 1 trained in of Orff-Schulwerk

Responsibilities and Expectations

Preparation and organization

Create an inclusive classroom where all students feels welcome and receive support in their musical exploration

Have the ability to leverage musical knowledge and expertise to develop engaging primary music curriculum, with a strong focus on creating comprehensive IB PYP units or equivalent inquiry-based music programs or possesses transferable skills and experience from a related field

Have the ability to manage and adhere to departmental budgets for music resources and supplies.

Effectively manage and maintain classroom instruments, audio equipment, and teaching materials

Instruction

Foster inquiry and celebrate music through singing, instrumental exploration, and performance.

Guide students through age-appropriate exploration and mastery of fundamental musical concepts, including rhythm, melody, harmony, and music theory

Deliver authentic, differentiated music education to students in grades Pre K through 5, focusing on developing holistic musical abilities in every learner.

Use expertise to teach fundamental music theory, aural training, composition, and practical techniques

Be comfortable proactively integrating new technology to enrich music lessons and enhance student learning

Professional Expectations

Have the ability to communicate effectively with families on an as needed basis

Be open to opportunities for growth, and professional development

Uphold our school's mission, enriching instruction to foster global citizenship, language and cultural fluency, and academic excellence through inquiry

Must be able to obtain valid CBR, food handlers card and CPR certification

Other duties as assigned

Compensation and Benefits

Decided by the schools salary scale based on the candidates education and classroom teaching experience

Employer paid Medical for employee only, Vision, Life Insurance, voluntary Dental insurance, Cafeteria plan with FSA, DCA and Transit account, Personal Time, and 403(b) Retirement plan with employer matching benefits

50% tuition discount for full-time employee's qualifying children

HOW TO APPLY

Apply using our online application at and submit the following:

Completed Employment Application

Resume

Cover Letter

Copies of Degree(s) received and any teaching certifications obtained, or other trainings

References or Letters of Recommendation

**Employment is contingent on successful completion of the Oregon Department of Education Background Check http://www.ode.state.or.us/services/transportation/forms/2282-M.pdf ***

*Employment is contingent on successful completion of the Oregon Early Learning Division Office of Child Background Check https://ssl7.emp.state.or.us/ccd/ **