APAP Career Center

Catlin Gabel School is seeking an inspiring & innovative Music Teacher to capture and engage 1st–5th grade students through a dynamic and inclusive music curriculum. This role offers the opportunity to cultivate a love for music by integrating diverse musical styles, movement, singing, instrumental exploration, and music appreciation into joyful and meaningful learning experiences.

As part of our vibrant learning community, the Music Teacher will collaborate with faculty and staff to create cross-curricular connections and contribute to a school-wide culture that celebrates artistic expression. Ideal candidates are innovative educators who foster creativity, curiosity, and confidence in students while building an inclusive classroom where every child feels valued and encouraged to explore their musical potential. 

If you are an enthusiastic music educator who is eager to inspire young learners in a supportive and forward-thinking environment, we invite you to join our community at Catlin Gabel School!

Application Requirements:

1. Cover letter 
2. Resume 
3. Apply on school’s website catlin.edu

Benefits:

• Competitive benefits package on the school’s employment page.

Key Responsibilities:

• Implement a music program for 1st through 5th grade, including choral singing, playing Orff and percussion instruments, and instruction in basic musical concepts appropriate to the grade and developmental level of the students
• Build musicianship with every learner through the integration of music, movement, speech, and drama
• Use a variety of instructional methods to create dynamic, engaging lessons, which support a diversity of learners
• Impart the love of music and inspire students to participate fully
• Prepare several concert opportunities throughout the year providing focus and an authentic audience for music learning
• Collaborate with homeroom teachers to coordinate learning experiences
• Collaborate to include singing and instrumentation at community events including weekly Community Meetings and Friday Sing
• Foster a classroom environment where students feel comfortable to take risks, make mistakes, and be curious
• Work in partnership with students and their families
• Practice thoughtful, respectful, and effective classroom management techniques which support active learning and promote responsibility, self-management, and positive relationships
• Maintain frequent contact with families including newsletter articles, Seesaw journals, emails, meetings, and informal conversations 
• Write progress reports and participate in parent/teacher conferences. 
• Attend all faculty and community meetings
• Supervise students during recess and other non-class times
• Participate fully in the life of the school

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree (in Education or Music)
• 3 Years of Elementary Music teaching experience
• Piano proficiency for classroom instruction and basic music theory skills
• Cultural competence, particularly in relation to curriculum development, and a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion

Preferred Qualifications:

• Masters Degree (in Education or Music)
• Guitar skills and/or instrumental teaching or performance experience
• Teaching credential or graduate degree
• Orff or Kodaly
• Choir directing experience

Competencies:

• Understanding of progressive education philosophy and ability to put it into practice
• Ability to create and implement an elementary music program using a progressive and constructivist pedagogy
• Effective classroom management skills and culturally responsive teaching practices
•  Committed to co-creating music and performance with students
• Ability to create positive, professional relationships with students, parents, caregivers, and colleagues
• Familiarity with the NAfME music education standards
• Ability to work as a team member: The ability to problem-solve, compromise, collaborate, and be flexible
• Computer Skills: Proficient with Word, Outlook, and Google Drive

Physical Requirements:

• Mobility sufficient to move about the campus on uneven terrain and assure the safety of children
• Ability to communicate with children, colleagues, and families
• The ability to occasionally lift 30-50 pounds and to accomplish frequent bending, squatting, stooping and kneeling

Diversity and Inclusion:

Catlin Gabel is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We encourage applications from people of color, LGBTQ+ candidates, and individuals from historically underrepresented communities in independent schools. We believe in creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all members of our community.

Timeline:

• Review of applications begins immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

• The tentative start date for this position is August 2025.

Application Requirements:

1. Cover letter 
2. Resume 
3. Apply on school’s website catlin.edu

About Catlin Gabel School

Catlin Gabel School is a coeducational, independent day school located on 54 acres in the West Hills neighborhood of Portland, Oregon formed in 1957 by the merger of the Catlin Hillside School, which had been founded as Miss Catlin’s School in 1911, and the Gabel Country Day School, whose roots extend to 1859 with the founding of The Portland Academy. The campus itself is a former farm with beautiful trees, fields, and plantings that has been modernized and upgraded over the years with new and renovated buildings that blend in with the natural surroundings. We offer a broad and challenging curriculum based on a progressive philosophy with small classes designed to educate the total person, incorporating the academic along with the arts, physical education, and a strong sense of community service. The school enrolls nearly 740 students in Pre-Kindergarten through twelfth grade and has 100 faculty members committed to diversity among students, faculty and staff. Catlin Gabel is an equal opportunity employer.

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