Choir Teacher - Middle School

Choir Teacher - Kinawa 5-6 School
Okemos Public Schools | Okemos, Michigan

Position Status: Full Time (1.0 FTE)
Start Date: School Year
Salary/Benefits:
Per OEA Master Agreement

Summary

Okemos Public Schools is seeking a passionate, student-centered educator to serve as Choir Teachers at Kinawa 5-6 School. This position offers the opportunity to inspire and develop middle-level learners through engaging vocal music instruction within a collaborative, innovative, and academically excellent school community.

The ideal candidate will foster inclusive and supportive classroom environments where students develop musical skills, confidence, creativity, collaboration, and a lifelong appreciation for music. Educators in these roles will design meaningful vocal music experiences that encourage student growth, performance excellence, and active participation while supporting the social, emotional, and developmental needs of middle school learners.

This role is ideal for the educator who values relationship-centered practices, authentic student engagement, collaboration, and high-quality arts education. Successful candidates will contribute positively to a strong team culture and demonstrate a commitment to continuous professional growth and equitable outcomes for all students.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Other duties may be assigned.

Instruction & Student Learning

• Plan and deliver engaging vocal music instruction aligned with Michigan Academic Standards for Music Education.
• Foster a positive and student-centered classroom environment that promotes creativity, collaboration, confidence, and musical growth.
• Develop students' vocal technique, music literacy, performance skills, and appreciation for diverse musical styles and cultures.
• Prepare and direct student performances, concerts, and related musical events.
• Differentiate instruction to meet the diverse academic, social, emotional, and developmental needs of middle school learners.
• Utilize formative and summative assessment data to monitor student progress and guide instructional decision-making.
• Create opportunities for student leadership, expression, and meaningful participation in music education.

Culture, Climate & Student Support

• Build positive, respectful relationships with students, families, and colleagues.
• Establish and maintain a safe, inclusive, and equitable classroom environment.
• Promote positive student behavior through restorative and relationship-centered practices.
• Support students' social-emotional growth and overall well-being.
• Collaborate with counselors, interventionists, special education staff, and other support personnel to address student needs.

Collaboration & Professional Responsibilities

• Collaborate regularly with grade-level teams, performing arts colleagues, and support staff to enhance student learning and school culture.
• Participate actively in professional learning communities, staff meetings, and district initiatives.
• Communicate effectively and consistently with families regarding student growth, performances, and classroom experiences.
• Maintain accurate student records, assessment data, and instructional documentation.
• Demonstrate continuous professional growth and reflective instructional practice.
• Support school and district initiatives aligned with the Strategic Plan and Equity Plan.

Qualifications

Education, Certification & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Music Education or related field required.
• Valid Michigan Teaching Certificate required.
• Michigan certification endorsement required:
  Music Education (JX).
• Successful upper elementary and/or middle school teaching experience preferred.
• Experience directing choirs and leading vocal music instruction preferred.
• Experience with student-centered instructional practices preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of vocal music pedagogy, choral instruction, and adolescent vocal development.
• Ability to create engaging, inclusive, and academically rigorous learning environments.
• Strong classroom management and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, students, and families.
• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to…