Why Join the Archdiocese of Chicago’s Vibrant Education Community?
At the Archdiocese of Chicago, education is more than a profession—it is a calling. Rooted in a tradition of academic excellence and Catholic values, our schools nurture the whole child: mind, body, spirit, and heart. St. Hilary School on Chicago’s North Side embodies this mission with a warm, child‑centered environment where curiosity thrives and creativity is celebrated. As a music teacher, you will become a catalyst for artistic expression, community building, and spiritual growth—helping young learners discover the joy of rhythm, melody, and harmony while deepening their connection to faith.
About St. Hilary PreK‑8 School
St. Hilary is a small, close‑knit PreK‑8 school that prides itself on small class sizes, flexible seating, and a welcoming atmosphere. The school’s state‑of‑the‑art music room is stocked with an array of instruments—from recorders and ukuleles to percussion and brass—giving students hands‑on experience in general music, choir, and band. The arts are woven into daily life, reinforcing the belief that music is a language of the soul that speaks to every child. Our faculty works collaboratively, sharing a commitment to lifelong learning, professional development, and the holistic development of each student.
Position Overview
We are seeking an enthusiastic, energetic, and compassionate Remote Music Teacher to join our faculty for the 2023‑24 academic year. This full‑time role offers immediate placement, competitive compensation, and the flexibility to deliver instruction both in‑person (when needed) and via remote platforms. As a key member of the academic team, you will design and implement engaging music curricula that align with Catholic educational standards, foster musical literacy, and inspire a love of the arts in every student.
Key Responsibilities
- Curriculum Development & Delivery: Design age‑appropriate music lessons for PreK‑8 that incorporate theory, performance, and cultural appreciation. Deliver high‑quality instruction in the classroom and through virtual platforms, ensuring accessibility for all learners.
- Choir & Band Leadership: Conduct weekly choir rehearsals, guide student musicians in ensemble performances, and coordinate concerts, liturgical music, and school events that celebrate the Catholic calendar.
- Faith Integration: Teach music in a manner that reflects Catholic teachings, supporting liturgical celebrations, school masses, and spiritual development through sacred music.
- Student Assessment & Feedback: Evaluate student progress through formative and summative assessments, provide constructive feedback, and maintain detailed records of attendance, grades, and performance outcomes.
- Collaboration & Communication: Partner with classroom teachers, the principal, and support staff to integrate music across the curriculum. Communicate regularly with parents and guardians about student achievements and classroom expectations.
- Professional Development: Participate in Archdiocesan‑mandated training, school‑based workshops, and external conferences to stay current with best practices in music education and Catholic pedagogy.
- Technology Integration: Utilize digital tools—such as music notation software, virtual instrument libraries, and video conferencing platforms—to enhance remote instruction and student engagement.
- Community Engagement: Organize school‑wide performances, community concerts, and outreach events that showcase student talent and strengthen ties with the parish and local community.
- Safety & Compliance: Uphold a safe, orderly, and respectful learning environment in accordance with school policies, state regulations, and Archdiocesan directives.
- Administrative Duties: Maintain accurate documentation, prepare lesson plans, grade assignments, and complete required reports and performance reviews in a timely manner.
Essential Qualifications
- Education: Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in Music Education, Music Performance, or a related field from an accredited institution.
- Licensure: Valid state teaching license (Illinois preferred, but out‑of‑state licenses accepted with appropriate reciprocity).
- Experience: Demonstrated ability to teach music to elementary‑aged children, with at least 1‑3 years of classroom experience preferred.
- Faith Commitment: Alignment with Catholic values and willingness to incorporate faith‑based perspectives into daily instruction.
- Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication, capable of building strong relationships with students, families, and colleagues.
- Technology Proficiency: Comfortable using learning management systems (Google Classroom, Canvas, etc.), video conferencing tools (Zoom, Microsoft Teams), and music technology (notation software, digital audio workstations).
Preferred Qualifications & Desirable Attributes
- Advanced degree (Master’s or higher) in Music Education or related specialization.
- Professional certifications such as National Board Certification, Orff Schulwerk, or Kodály training.
- Experience directing choirs, bands, or orchestras in a school or community setting.
- Proficiency in a variety of instruments, particularly those commonly used in elementary instruction (e.g., recorder, ukulele, percussion).
- Evidence of innovative instructional strategies, such as project‑based learning, interdisciplinary integration, and culturally responsive teaching.
- Demonstrated ability to foster inclusive classrooms that celebrate diversity and promote equity.
Core Skills & Competencies for Success
- Instructional Design: Ability to craft lesson plans that balance musical theory, performance, and creative expression.
- Classroom Management: Skilled at creating an environment where students feel safe, respected, and motivated to participate.
- Creativity & Innovation: Uses imaginative approaches to make music relevant and exciting for young learners.
- Leadership: Guides student ensembles, mentors peers, and contributes to school‑wide artistic initiatives.
- Collaboration: Works effectively with cross‑functional teams, integrating music with other subject areas and school events.
- Adaptability: Comfortable shifting between in‑person and remote instruction, responding to evolving educational needs.
- Assessments & Data‑Driven Instruction: Utilizes assessment results to tailor instruction and support individual student growth.
- Professional Ethics: Maintains confidentiality, demonstrates integrity, and models the Catholic values of service, compassion, and respect.
Compensation, Perks, & Benefits (General Overview)
St. Hilary offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications, complemented by a comprehensive benefits suite that includes:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- Retirement savings options (403(b) with employer matching).
- Paid professional development days and tuition reimbursement for advanced coursework.
- Generous paid time off, including holidays, personal days, and sick leave.
- Access to the Archdiocese’s extensive resources, including mentorship programs, curriculum libraries, and faith‑formation retreats.
- Flexible work arrangements, enabling a blend of remote and on‑site teaching.
- Opportunities to lead school concerts, community performances, and liturgical music ministries.
Professional Growth & Learning Opportunities
Our commitment to lifelong learning means you will have access to:
- Annual Archdiocesan workshops focused on music pedagogy, technology integration, and Catholic education.
- Mentorship from seasoned faculty members and diocesan music directors.
- Funding for conferences, certifications, and advanced degrees.
- Collaborative planning time with peers to develop interdisciplinary projects (e.g., integrating music with history, literature, and science).
- Leadership pathways, including roles such as Director of Fine Arts, curriculum coordinator, or chaplaincy liaison.
Work Environment & School Culture
St. Hilary’s campus is a vibrant, nurturing space where educators are valued as partners in the mission of forming the whole child. Highlights of our culture include:
- Family‑like community: Small class sizes foster strong relationships among students, teachers, and families.
- Faith‑centered atmosphere: Daily prayer, regular Mass attendance, and opportunities to lead music during liturgical celebrations.
- Creative spaces: A well‑equipped music room, flexible classroom layouts, and access to outdoor performance areas.
- Collaborative spirit: Regular faculty meetings, grade‑level teams, and interdisciplinary planning sessions.
- Commitment to diversity: An inclusive environment that respects each child’s unique background, abilities, and gifts.
Application Procedure
Ready to inspire the next generation of musicians and faith‑leaders? Please submit the following documents through our online portal:
- Official Transcripts: Verify your academic credentials.
- Resume / Curriculum Vitae: Detail your professional experience and achievements.
- Cover Letter: Explain your passion for music education, alignment with Catholic values, and why you are the ideal fit for St. Hilary.
- Professional Reference Letters: Provide two to three letters from supervisors, colleagues, or mentors who can attest to your teaching effectiveness and character.
All applications will be reviewed promptly. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview, which may include a teaching demonstration (in‑person or virtual) and a conversation with the principal, Mrs. Kathie Donovan.
Join Us – Make Music Matter
At St. Hilary, music is more than a subject; it is a conduit for faith, community, and personal growth. If you are a dedicated educator who believes that every child deserves the chance to sing, play, and create, we invite you to bring your talent, enthusiasm, and heart to our school. Apply today and become part of a legacy that nurtures minds, hearts, and souls through the universal language of music.
Submit Your Application
Seize this opportunity to make a lasting impact on young lives. Click the link below to begin your application journey.
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