Music & Performance Specialist Teacher in Seattle, Washington at Epiphany School

About the role

Epiphany School seeks a dynamic Music and Performance Specialist Teacher to design, build, implement, and evaluate an engaging and developmentally appropriate music and performance program for students in grades pre-k to fifth grade. This role provides the opportunity to build and re-imagine a vocal and instrumental music program from a strong foundation provided by previous programs at Epiphany School. This role guides students to understand the value of self-expression through choral and instrumental music, integrating expression, movement, dance, and more to stretch students’ comfort zones and grow their creative skills in a safe environment. The Music and Performance Specialist is responsible for creating and directing performances throughout each year that highlight student learning in music and performance skills and allow students in all grades to shine. This role will collaborate with grade level teachers, assistant heads, and other subject area specialists to build, plan, and teach the curriculum; assess, evaluate, and supervise students; manage the classroom and its supplies and resources; and participate in robust professional learning and school community events.

This is a full-time, exempt, academic year position, reporting to the Lower Elementary Assistant Head.

Standard work schedule is Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:00am – 4:00pm and Wednesdays from 8:00am – 5:00pm during the academic year, with a start date of August 19, 2026, and end date on June 15, 2027.

What you'll do

Primary Responsibilities

Plan and teach a robust, engaging, and developmentally appropriate music and performing arts curriculum that aligns with national and state standards for students in Pre-K through Grade 5. Implement instructional strategies that actively engage students in meaningful musical and performance experiences and promote creativity, collaboration, confidence, and self-expression. Lead, direct, and coordinate school performances, assemblies, and other special events that showcase student learning and support school traditions. Collaborate with classroom teachers, other specialist teachers, and Assistant Heads to integrate the school’s music and performance program into grade-level and school curriculum Utilize necessary technology in the classroom and for delivery of instruction Communicate effectively with families regarding curriculum, student progress, performances, and classroom activities through teacher pages, newsletters, and other school communication platforms. Select, organize, maintain, and effectively manage music, instruments, technology, costumes, performance materials and resources. Ensure the proper care, inventory, and maintenance of instruments, equipment, and performance spaces.

Expectations For All Teachers at Epiphany School

Create a learning environment based on Epiphany School’s mission, vision, and values Use Responsive Classroom approach as a framework for working with students Implement instructional strategies that contribute to a climate where students are actively engaged in meaningful learning experiences Identify, select, and modify instructional resources to meet the needs of the students with varying backgrounds and learning differences Assess student progress and maintain effective record keeping procedures Attend grade-level and faculty meetings as scheduled Effectively and efficiently manage classroom resources and budget Provide recess supervision as scheduled Participate in the school community, including professional learning, service learning, and community events Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned by their supervisor

Typical Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Bachelor’s degree or higher in Music Education, Performing Arts, Elementary Education, or a related field(s); Master’s degree preferred. Minimum of 5 years of successful teaching experience in music, performing arts, or a related educational setting. Teaching certification and appropriate endorsement in music, performing arts, elementary education, or related field preferred. Strong knowledge of music education pedagogy, child development, vocal and instrumental instruction, performance preparation, and arts integration practices for elementary-aged students. Demonstrated proficiency in music and performing arts instruction, including the ability to lead vocal and instrumental ensembles, direct student performances, and foster creativity and artistic expression. Knowledge of national and state music education standards and best practices in assessment and curriculum development. Understanding of the Responsive Classroom approach and commitment to creating a positive, inclusive, and student-centered learning environment preferred. Ability to differentiate instruction and support students with diverse learning profiles, abilities, backgrounds, and interests. Proven ability to establish and maintain effective classroom management practices across a range of grade levels and developmental stages, including the ability to recognize when additional behavioral support is needed. Strong organizational and project management skills, including the ability to coordinate performances, manage multiple deadlines, and oversee resources, equipment, and budgets. Ability to balance competing priorities while maintaining attention to detail, flexibility, and responsiveness in a dynamic school environment. Excellent oral, written, and presentation skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with students, families, colleagues, and administrators. Strong interpersonal, collaboration, and conflict-resolution skills, with the ability to build positive relationships across the school community. Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with classroom teachers, specialists, support staff, and school leadership to advance school-wide goals and initiatives. Proficiency with educational technology and productivity software, including Microsoft Office applications, learning management systems, digital communication tools, and music-related instructional technology. Ability to learn and utilize new technologies and systems that support teaching, learning, communication, and performance management. Self-motivated, proactive, resourceful, and adaptable, with a willingness to contribute to the broader life of the school. Commitment to maintaining student and family confidentiality and exercising sound professional judgment. Commitment to equity, inclusion, belonging, and fostering a learning environment where all students feel valued and supported. Ability to meet all Epiphany School health, safety, and compliance training requirements and maintain required certifications as applicable. Ability to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.

Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) Compliance:

Ability to obtain the following (the school will cover all associated costs to obtain)

Portable background check (includes fingerprinting) STARS child-care basics training Proof of a negative TB test Proof of MMR and COVID-19 Immunization Bloodborne pathogens training CPR/First Aid certification

Compensation & Benefits

The salary range for this role is between $68,871 and $134,571, according to Epiphany School’s faculty pay scale and based on the years of experience, education, and professional development credits. When determining an initial offer, we carefully consider these factors and will ask the intended hire for documentation to verify the correct pay lane and step.

Alongside salary, Epiphany School offers a comprehensive benefits package including:

Benefits stipend to put towards employee benefits including medical, dental, vision coverage, voluntary employee, spousal, and child life and critical illness insurance, accident insurance, voluntary short-term disability, and flexible health savings accounts Employer-paid monthly premiums for employee assistance program and long-term disability coverage 403(b) retirement plan with employer contribution Paid holidays Paid personal and sick leave Paid supplemental parental leave after 12 months of employment Professional development funding

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter through our Employee Portal. The priority review deadline for applications will be June 26, 2026, but applications will be received until the position is filled.

About Epiphany School

Epiphany School is a non-parochial, independent elementary school serving grades pre-kindergarten through fifth grade. Our mission is to be a welcoming community that embraces its diversity, celebrates the joy of childhood, and ignites lifelong learning. We aim to create a positive, joyful, and inclusive community by embracing the following values:

Learn Joyfully Try New Things Act Responsibly Invite Everyone In Shine Together

With about 270 students, Epiphany School is large enough to offer a broad spectrum of educational opportunities and small enough to maintain a close-knit community. The beautiful, historic campus is located in a quiet setting in central Seattle’s Madrona neighborhood.

Epiphany School’s Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Epiphany School promotes and cultivates a diverse community as essential to academic success, social and emotional growth, and the development of good character. Engaging diverse perspectives stretches the mind and requires critical thinking, intellectual courage, and creativity. It takes careful listening and thoughtful expression and manifests itself in cultural competency. Thinking beyond oneself and seeing the world through the eyes of others is the foundation of fairness and empathy and thus prepares our students to live respectfully and responsibly in our pluralistic democratic society.

Epiphany School is committed to the Americans with Disabilities Act and the principle of equal access and opportunity in education and employment and full participation for persons with disabilities in all its programs and services.

Epiphany School is an equal opportunity employer and will not discriminate against any employee because of race, color, national origin, citizenship or immigration status, religion, gender identity, gender expression, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, political ideology, physical, mental, or sensory disability, military status, genetic information, age, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

Epiphany School complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact careers@epiphanyschool.org.