EdPost

STRIDE Academy in St. Cloud, MN, stands out as a K-8 public charter school with a strong focus on the whole child, celebrated for fostering academic excellence and a nurturing learning environment. Our mission emphasizes individualized learning and innovative teaching, preparing students for future success. Notable for our community involvement and award-winning programs, STRIDE offers a unique, supportive educational experience that cultivates curiosity and character development, making a significant impact on our students and the wider community. POSITION DETAILS Grade: 5-8 POSITION: Music Start Date: 2026-2027 Full Time FTE: 1.0 ROLE OBJECTIVE Plan and deliver an engaging, culturally relevant middle school music program that reflects students? interests and current music trends. Provide standards-driven, developmentally appropriate instruction while fostering creativity, collaboration, and student voice. Create a positive, inclusive environment where students feel connected, motivated, and empowered to explore music as a form of expression. KEY DUTIES Deliver dynamic instruction in music appreciation, performance (vocal/instrumental), composition, and basic music production, incorporating both foundational skills and modern genres relevant to students. Design lessons that prioritize student choice and autonomy , allowing students to select music, explore instruments, and contribute to class activities. Use active, collaborative learning strategies such as rhythm games, small group work, call-and-response, and movement (e.g., conducting, dance) to maintain high engagement and energy. Incorporate gamification and interactive activities to make music theory and skill development fun and accessible. Select and adapt relevant, culturally responsive repertoire , including music students know and enjoy, while ensuring age-appropriate content. Integrate technology (e.g., music apps, recording tools, digital composition platforms) to enhance creativity, collaboration, and real-world application of skills. Build strong relationships with students through positive reinforcement, mutual respect, and consistent encouragement, fostering a welcoming and inclusive classroom community. Create a structured yet high-energy classroom environment with clear expectations, strong pacing, and effective behavior management. Provide differentiated instruction to meet diverse learning needs, including accommodations for SPED, 504, and other support plans. Assess student progress using a variety of methods (performance-based, project-based, and formative assessments) and provide meaningful, timely feedback. Promote a sense of community and belonging through recognition systems (e.g., shout-outs, leadership roles, showcases) and opportunities for student leadership. Collaborate with staff and administration to support performances, school events, and community engagement opportunities. Communicate regularly with families, including sharing student work, performances, and classroom highlights to build program visibility and support. Participate in curriculum development, professional learning, and school improvement efforts. Maintain accurate records, follow school policies and mandatory reporting procedures, and demonstrate professionalism in communication, organization, and collaboration. Stay current with trends in music, education, and student engagement strategies, continuously adapting instruction to meet the needs of today?s learners. Other duties as assigned. ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES Participate in regular professional development, the school?s professional learning community and staff meetings to improve instruction. Work collaboratively and communicate professionally with school leadership and other staff members to maximize effective instructional activities and build positive school culture. Meet professional obligations by honoring schedules, deadlines, and all professional responsibilities. Demonstrate the standards for effective practices of teachers Any other assigned duties as assigned. REQUIREMENTS Educational Qualifications: BA Skills and Competencies: Strong knowledge of content, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, ability to engage and inspire students, and proficiency in using educational technology. BENEFITS AND COMPENSATION Salary Range: Starting salary of $43,000 or higher based on experience Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement, and professional development opportunities. APPLICATION PROCESS Application Materials: Submit a resume, cover letter, references, and complete online application Application Deadline: Until Filled Contact Information: Heather Ebnet 5-8 Principal hebnet@strideacademy.org Apply here: https://www.strideacademy.org/employment EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT STRIDE Academy is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. CALL TO ACTION Join our dedicated team at STRIDE Academy and make a difference in the lives of our students. Apply today to contribute to our vibrant learning community where every child is encouraged to reach their full potential. We look forward to welcoming you to our team!