Fountain Valley School, a selective and diverse boarding school, educates 250 students in grades 9–12 on a beautiful 1,100-acre campus in Colorado Springs, CO. Founded in 1930, the School provides a rigorous, global curriculum in academics, arts, athletics and the outdoors.
The Opportunity:
Fountain Valley School seeks an experienced and dynamic music educator to lead and grow its instrumental music program, with a focus on jazz and rock ensembles. The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in music performance and education, along with expertise in digital recording and experience selecting diverse, engaging repertoire. They will have extensive experience teaching instrumental music and directing ensembles, and be prepared to integrate real-world applications, student choice, and industry connections to enhance the curriculum’s relevance and impact.
We value educators who model best teaching practices and understand the importance of community involvement, student empowerment, and ongoing professional development. This individual will collaborate with faculty and staff to advance the school’s mission and strategic vision.
Key Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Teach 1 section of Jazz/Rock Ensemble.
- Direct the Jazz/Rock Ensemble for major school events, including the Fall Concert, Winter Celebration, Spring Concert, and Outdoor Music Festival(s).
- Teach 45-minute private lessons to students during adjacent blocks to Jazz/Rock Ensemble and during the evening on weeknights (additional compensation for each lesson taught).
- Demonstrate an ability to foster sustained collaboration and professional growth within a department.
- Show an appreciation for the craft of teaching along with a passion for Music as a discipline.
- Regular and reliable, in person attendance
- Other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
- A minimum of five years of experience teaching beginner and intermediate musicians.
- Find joy in working with adolescents and in school life.
- Engage with energy, kindness, and a sense of humor.
- Experience enhancing classroom learning with appropriate math technology.
- Demonstrate cultural competency and skills engaging with and learning from people with diverse backgrounds and experiences.
- Demonstrate skills in communication and interpersonal relations within and across multiple constituencies.
- Must possess a valid driver's license and/or obtain a Colorado license within 30 days of hire.
- Bachelor’s degree with a major in Music Education or Music Performance or; advanced degree or equivalent experience in an independent boarding/day school environment preferred.
Working Conditions:
- Environment: office and indoor classroom working with some outdoor events
- Physical demands: able to sit and stand for at least 8 hours per day; must be able to lift 40 lbs.
- Proficiency in LMS Blackbaud OnCampus and Google Educational Suite Apps preferred.
Salary: $12,000 - $15,000
Benefits: Access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Eligibility to contribute to the 403(b) retirement plan, Use of campus amenities, including gym, pool, trails, and more
Application Deadline: April 30, 2026