Band Teacher (Sabbatical Replacement) John Burroughs School

Band Teacher (one-year sabbatical replacement)

Full-time, Middle/High School

AY 2026-27

 

About John Burroughs School:

Founded in 1923, John Burroughs School is an independent, coeducational, college preparatory day school for grades 7-12 located on a 49-acre campus in St. Louis, Missouri. Burroughs currently has 660 students, 49% of whom identify as students of color. Twenty-five percent of the student body receives tuition aid.

Burroughs strives to instill the joy of living through active learning, integrity, and service to others. We seek to cultivate an inclusive community that nurtures authentic learners who lead and inspire meaningful lives. At Burroughs we do so by valuing and learning from our differences, embracing challenges and championing growth, fostering a culture of great expectations, teaching empathy and the power of service, and offering a balanced and broad experience. Faculty, parents, and students share a commitment to a liberal arts education that strikes a balance among academics, arts, athletics, and activities. We believe that the many dimensions of diversity, equity, and inclusivity are essential to excellence in education, and they are woven into the fabric of the Burroughs experience.

 

For more information, see:

·   About JBS: https://jburroughs.org/about-jbs

·   Diversity, Equity and Inclusivity: https://jburroughs.org/about-jbs/diversity-equity-inclusivity

·   Working at Burroughs: https://jburroughs.org/about-jbs/working-at-burroughs

Opportunity Description:
John Burroughs School seeks a supportive, inspiring, and collaborative educator to join the Performing Arts Department as a one-year sabbatical replacement band teacher serving both middle school and high school students.

Our program emphasizes inclusive, contemporary band experiences using traditional concert band instrumentation. Repertoire is primarily pop-style and modern band literature; students often suggest pieces for consideration, and selections prioritize ensemble playing, expression, and music that feels relevant to them (rather than traditional wind ensemble/jazz band canon).

The band teacher will adapt instruction for students of varied experience—from beginners to more advanced players—and foster a welcoming, low-pressure environment where participation, collaboration, and joy in music-making are central. The program follows a community band model: we do not administer chair tests, rank students by ability, require practice logs, or expect private lessons. Instead, students are supported in setting personal goals, building confidence, strengthening listening and ensemble skills, and contributing to a positive shared musical experience.

Major Responsibilities:

• Teach middle school and high school band classes in alignment with the school’s inclusive, community-band philosophy.

• Select, adapt, and (when helpful) arrange repertoire for flexible, mixed-ability instrumentation.

• Plan and lead rehearsals that develop fundamentals, musicianship, listening, and ensemble awareness.

• Prepare students for performances across the school year (evening/weekend events as needed).

• Communicate with students and families; collaborate with Performing Arts colleagues and relevant staff.

• Manage music, instruments, and equipment in coordination with department procedures.

 

 Qualifications:

A strong candidate will have:

·   At least 3 years of experience teaching band

·   At least a Bachelor’s degree in music education or a closely related field of study

·   Strong interpersonal skills

·   A demonstrated commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusivity

 

Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit the following documents electronically to Sarah Yoselevsky Kaye at skaye@jburroughs.org.

1. Cover letter stating interest in and qualifications for the position

2. Educational philosophy statement

3. Current resume as an educator, including phone number and email address

4. If applicable, current resume as a performing artist

5. Names, email addresses, and phone numbers of three references

 Files will be reviewed as received and the position will be open until filled.

 If you have questions about the position, contact John Pierson, Performing Arts Chair, at jpierson@jburroughs.org.