Music Studio Teacher

Job Summary

Plan, develop, and evaluate a comprehensive early childhood program in the music studio; coordinate the studio space and implement a curriculum integrated with the classroom curriculum. Maintain the studio, assess children’s musical development, and participate in the afternoon program as a classroom teacher. Build positive working relationships with colleagues, families, and students and support the Center’s philosophy and policies.

• Supervising and Teaching Children (65%) – Plan and implement a developmentally appropriate curriculum for the music studio aligned with Reggio Emilia and RIE philosophies, using the First Steps in Music approach. Maintain written observations and assessments of children’s development. Lead school‑wide musical events and assist with student and faculty research projects. In general teaching, supervise children, ensure health and safety, promote cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development, and facilitate daily activities and transitions.
• Record Keeping, Collaboration, and Communication (20%) – Participate in team meetings, maintain written records of curriculum and development, publish documentation and blogs, manage the studio budget with the Associate Director, and coordinate school‑wide events.
• Maintenance of Classroom Environment and Common Spaces (10%) – Clean and organize the studio, prepare materials, maintain a safe and aesthetically pleasing environment, and collaborate with other teachers on classroom upkeep.
• Assume Teaching Responsibilities (5%) – Serve as the classroom supervising teacher during absences, fill in as morning classroom teacher as needed, and support staff needs.

• Background record check, including fingerprinting.
• Bachelor’s degree.
• Two years teaching experience preferred, or equivalent combination.
• Coursework and/or experience in early childhood program or related field and in the music studio discipline.
• Experience with Reggio Emilia and music education preferred but not required.
• Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care teacher certification or eligibility required; obtain lead teacher certification within two years of employment.
• First aid and CPR certification within the first two months of employment.
• Experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

• Background record check, including fingerprinting.
• Bachelor’s degree related to music (performance, composition, or education).
• Two years of experience with music education.
• Experience as an early childhood classroom teacher.
• Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care teacher certification within an agreed timeframe.
• First aid and CPR certification within the first two months of employment.
• Coursework in early childhood program or related field preferred; coursework in studio discipline required.
• Experience with Reggio Emilia and arts education preferred but not required.

• Commitment to fostering trusting relationships and learning opportunities in an early childhood laboratory environment.
• Integrity and confidentiality in handling sensitive information.
• Collaboration with team members to assess and address complex child and program issues.
• Strong communication, literacy, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency with electronic communication tools (PowerPoint, Word, Word Press, Gmail, Google Docs).
• Knowledge of early childhood education principles and practices.
• Commitment to supporting family and staff diversity.
• Physical ability to lift up to 10 lbs. routinely, up to 25 lbs. frequently, and up to 50 lbs. occasionally; ability to supervise outdoor activities in varied weather.
• Patience, adaptability, observational skills, and appreciation for children’s capacities.

Pay ranges from $23.43 to $28.64 hourly, covering the middle half of market compensation; actual compensation varies based on qualifications.

Regular

Smith College is an equal opportunity employer. Consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Massachusetts General Law Chapter 151B, the college provides reasonable accommodation when requested by a qualified applicant or employee with a disability, unless such accommodation would cause undue hardship. The college will not discriminate in employment on the basis of age, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, genetic information, veteran status, or any other classification protected by law.