Job Description

Uncommon Schools is a nonprofit network of high-performing public charter schools dedicated to providing an exceptional K-12 education in economically disadvantaged communities. Operating in Boston, Camden, New York City, Newark, and Rochester, we are committed to closing the college completion gap and preparing every student for college and beyond. Our students consistently exceed national benchmarks , reflecting our dedication to their success. We invest deeply in our educators , offering weekly coaching, feedback, and professional development to ensure excellence in teaching and leadership. Join us to work hard, do good, and make a lasting difference!

Job Description

Uncommon Schools seeks an accomplished, passionate Middle/High School Music (Instrumental/Band) Teacher to join our 7–12 instrumental music team. This is a unique role designed to strengthen the middle and high school band program pipeline across Uncommon’s Brooklyn campuses.

The teacher in this position will:

• Be primarily based at one campus (3–4 days per week) , teaching full days alongside a strong band program and collaborating closely with experienced music educators.
• Support additional middle and high school band programs across the network on lighter instructional days, helping strengthen student readiness, curriculum alignment, and performance quality.
• Serve as a bridge between our middle school and high school programs, learning from our competitive high school ensembles and helping prepare younger students to reach the same level of excellence.
• Step into a lead teaching role should a vacancy occur in any of our middle or high school band programs, either mid-year or at the start of a new school year.

This role offers a rare opportunity for a passionate instrumental music educator to deepen their craft while contributing to the growth and sustainability of one of the most dynamic K–12 music programs in New York City.

Specific Responsibilities

Teaching & Ensemble Direction

• Implement Uncommon’s network band vision through high-quality instruction that meets music-specific academic standards and prepares students for college-readiness.
• Teach middle and/or high school ensemble classes, small group lessons, and instrumental fundamentals for woodwinds, brass, and percussion.
• Prepare students for school concerts, community performances, and select festivals or competitions.
• Develop and teach music literacy skills including rhythm, pitch, sight-reading, solfege, improvisation, and aural training.
• Lead and direct afterschool or extended-day rehearsals with diverse instrumentation.

Program Development & Collaboration

• Collaborate with the fellow band teachers, Music Programs Manager and school leadership to align curriculum and performance expectations across grades 7–12.
• Support music teachers across schools with curriculum delivery, rehearsal techniques, and performance planning.
• Partner with school operations teams to ensure all logistical and equipment needs are met for rehearsals, performances, and instruction.
• Assist with student recruitment and family communication to build strong participation and culture around the instrumental program.
• Participate in ongoing professional learning communities, curriculum development, and cross-campus collaborations.

Culture & Leadership

• Model Uncommon’s high expectations for student engagement, behavior, and achievement.
• Contribute to a positive, joyful classroom environment rooted in teamwork, accountability, and musicianship.
• Participate in school-wide systems, duties, and cultural initiatives that contribute to a strong community.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Music Education required; Master’s degree preferred.
• Valid state teaching certification helpful but not required.
• Proficiency teaching and performing woodwinds, brass, and percussion ; added emphasis in playing and teaching Concert band and Jazz ensembles preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years of successful instrumental teaching experience (middle or high school level required).
• Demonstrated ability to lead large ensembles and inspire excellence in students.
• Strong classroom management aligned with Uncommon’s systems and culture.
• Excellent organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Belief in and alignment with Uncommon’s core beliefs and educational philosophy is non-negotiable.
• Proven track record of student growth and musical achievement.
• Evidence of self-motivation, collaboration, and a desire to grow as an educator.

Additional Information

Our people are what make us Uncommon. We offer competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits that support the personal health, wellness, and finances of our staff and their families. Our compensation philosophy values equity & fairness and attracting & retaining top talent.

Compensation

Compensation for this role is between $72,000 to $115,000. 

Starting pay is determined using various factors including but not limited to relevant full-time teaching experience, education certifications, and tenure with Uncommon Schools. Candidates without full-time Teaching experience will likely have a starting salary of $72,000. 

Benefits

• Generous paid time off inclusive of sick time, paid holidays, and 10 weeks of paid breaks (Spring, Winter, and Summer). 
• Extensive, best-in-class training and development
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans + pre-tax flexible spending (FSA), dependent care (DCFSA), and health saving accounts (HSA)
• Financial Planning
  • 403(b) retirement savings program + employer match
• Paid leave of absence options (parental, medical, disability, etc.)
• Mental health and counseling support + wellness benefits

*A detailed list of all benefits is located HERE .

At Uncommon, we believe that a supportive and welcoming environment helps our students, staff, and community thrive. We are dedicated to building a team that brings a wide range of perspectives and experiences, reflective of the communities we serve---with over 70% of our staff identifying as people of color. Our organization values respect and open dialogue on important topics that shape our school culture.

As an equal opportunity employer, Uncommon provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. We also ensure that individuals with disabilities receive all privileges and benefits associated with employment and are provided reasonable accommodations for the interview process and to perform core job functions. If you would like to request an accommodation, please email recruitment@uncommonschools.org.

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