Combined 1st/2nd Grade Lead Teacher

THE OPPORTUNITY:

For over 40 years, Crowden has been transforming lives through music and education. As we continue to expand our dynamic learning community to welcome our inaugural 1st and 2nd graders in Fall 2026, we seek an experienced teacher who will help create an innovative combined grade first and second grade program where music and education intertwine to nurture the whole child.

This teacher will join a vibrant community of students, teachers, and musicians who believe in the power of collaborative musical and educational experiences to shape young minds and build inclusive communities. Together, we’re expanding Crowden’s mission to create transformative learning experiences for our youngest students.

OUR PROGRAM:

Crowden’s elementary program embodies our mission by creating a dynamic, inclusive learning environment where collaborative musical and educational experiences are seamlessly integrated throughout the day, promoting:

Active listening and deep engagement
Body-mind connection
Social-emotional development
Early literacy and numeracy skills
Creative expression and collaboration
Community building and empathy

The program is thoughtfully designed with:

Small class sizes for individualized attention
Dedicated classroom space
Rich opportunities for interdisciplinary learning
Inclusive community of learners and educators

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

As the teacher, you will:

Collaborate in the design and implementation of an innovative mixed-grade curriculum that aligns with Crowden’s mission of creating collaborative musical and educational experiences
Create a warm, engaging classroom environment that promotes wonder, exploration, and joy in learning
Partner with specialist teachers to develop meaningful interdisciplinary experiences
Document and assess student growth across all developmental domains
Build strong relationships with families through regular communication
Actively participate in Crowden’s dynamic learning community through faculty collaboration and professional development
Contribute to creating an inclusive environment that welcomes diverse perspectives and experiences

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required:

Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, or related field
Teaching credential or equivalent experience
Minimum 3 years experience teaching early childhood or elementary grades
Demonstrated commitment to developmental and project-based learning
Has experience differentiating within the classroom for a variety of learning styles
Love for and appreciation of music (musical training not required)
Strong classroom management and communication skills
Vision and flexibility needed to help build a new program
Enthusiasm for working in a music-rich environment
Commitment to fostering an inclusive learning community

Preferred:

Master’s degree in Education or related field
Experience in program development or curriculum design
Experience leading mixed grade/age classrooms
Background in progressive pedagogy

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE WILL POSSESS:

Deep understanding of early childhood development
Commitment to creating an inclusive, equitable learning environment
Creative approach to curriculum development
Strong collaborative skills
Flexibility, adaptability, initiative
Energy and imagination
Passion for nurturing lifelong learning
Dedication to Crowden’s vision of transforming lives through music and education

BENEFITS:

Competitive salary commensurate with experience
Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement plan with employer contribution
Professional development opportunities
Supportive and collaborative work environment
Opportunity to shape an innovative educational program

Salary Information – $60,000 – $80,000, depending on experience. Placement on salary scale based on relevant teaching experience. This salary reflects the 25-26 school year scale and will be adjusted accordingly for the 26-27 school year.

TO APPLY:

Join us in transforming lives through music and education! Please submit:

Cover letter describing your teaching philosophy and vision for this role
Current resume
Three professional references, including at least one supervisor
Statement about your approach to creating differentiated, collaborative learning experiences that build inclusive communities

Send applications to: lsleadteacher2026@crowden.org. No phone calls, please.

Crowden Music Center, located just two blocks from North Berkeley BART, is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes candidates who contribute to our diverse community.

Tagged as: K-6