TK-8 PERFORMING ARTS/MUSIC ASSOCIATE & ACCOMPANIST

TK-8 PERFORMING ARTS/MUSIC ASSOCIATE & ACCOMPANIST

Synapse School in Menlo Park, CA, an innovative TK-8 independent school located in the heart of Silicon Valley dedicated to rethinking and reimagining education, seeks a Performing Arts/Music Teacher with accompanying skills to fill an associate teaching position.

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

Synapse School is seeking a creative and enthusiastic music teacher with piano accompaniment skills. The Performing Arts Associate Specialist will work closely with the Performing Arts Specialists to develop and deliver an integrated, constructivist-inspired, project-based curriculum for students in this TK-8 independent school. They will assist with instruction, documenting curriculum, preparing students for two or more formal performances a year, communicating student progress with narrative reports in addition to other responsibilities.

We seek a dedicated, highly collaborative, innovative teacher who loves kids, utilizes growth mindset, understands constructivism, and wants to be part of an exciting team of forward-thinking educators. Associate Teachers participate in all aspects of instruction, planning, and daily school life. Associate Teachers also receive broad support for their personal and professional growth through weekly seminars, professional development opportunities, and immersive classroom experiences.

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING, as directed by the Performing Arts Specialists:

Collaborate with teachers and specialists to design, develop, document and assess project-based curriculum.
Accompany choirs and ensembles in a variety of genres: Folk, Classical, World, Gospel, Musical Theater, Jazz, Pop, etc.
Assess students and write narrative evaluations.
Attend weekly team and faculty meetings.
Support Performing Arts classes that may include but are not limited to:
TK-4 Performing Arts: Including leading group songs, developing Orff arrangements, movement, and drama activities
5th & 6th Grade Orff Blues, Jazz, World Music, and Digital Composition
7th & 8th Grade Advanced Ensembles: Musical Theater, Chamber Music & Composition

AN IDEAL CANDIDATE WOULD POSSESS THE FOLLOWING QUALIFICATIONS:

Strong piano and reading skills
A strong interest in working with young children
Intellectual curiosity
Independent initiative
Strong organizational skills; excellent verbal and written communication skills
A thirst for collaboration and team-oriented work
A willingness to take on new challenges
The ability to adapt to a quickly changing environment
Teaching experience, credential and/or an advanced degree is preferred
A bachelor’s degree is required

WORKING CONDITIONS MAY INCLUDE:

Ability to work at a desk, conference table or in meetings of various configurations.
Ability to stand and circulate for extended periods of time.
Ability to see for purposes of reading music, correspondence, documents, and printed matter and observing students. Ability to hear and understand speech at normal levels.
Ability to communicate so others will be able to clearly understand normal conversation.
Ability to bend, crouch, kneel to assist students in pushing/pulling and lifting of musical equipment and supplies, sitting in chairs and/or floor and reaching in all directions.
Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
Ability to carry up to 25 pounds.
Periods of moderate to high-stress level.

EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS:

Dexterity and physical condition to maintain a rigorous work schedule and meet standards of physical and mental health.  To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.  Individuals must maintain a professional attitude and appearance.

APPLICATION PROCESS:

Applicants should email a cover letter detailing experience and interest, three names of references with contact information, and a résumé, to katiem@synapseschool.org with the subject line “Performing Arts Associate & Accompanist”. This is a full-time, exempt, salaried position. Synapse School offers industry leading benefits packages. The position is open until filled; the start date is August 4, 2025.

Synapse School does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex or sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability and familial affiliation or any other characteristic protected by law. All applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States.