Level 1 Teaching Assistant
POSITION: Level 1 Teaching Assistant (Two Positions Available)
SITE: Carver Elementary School, 6160 Jefferson Ave., Newport News, VA
STATUS: Part-Time, Hourly, Non-Exempt
PAY AND BENEFITS: $18/hour, paid semi-monthly; paid time off, employee dental insurance, paid holidays, and SIMPLE IRA with employer match
EMPLOYMENT PERIOD: September 21, 2026-May 27, 2027
SCHEDULE: Mondays and Thursdays, 3:45-6:45 PM. Preservice professional development is September 21-24, 2026, from 4:00-6:00 PM, with staff reporting at 3:45 PM. Student programming runs September 28, 2026-May 24, 2027. Additional professional development, performances, field trips, family events, and special activities are required as scheduled.
ELIGIBILITY: Applicants must be at least 16 years old by September 21, 2026. Priority consideration will be given to students actively participating in a Soundscapes program.
REPORTS TO: Level 1 Director and Peninsula Program Manager
CLOSE DATE: Until filled
ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY
The Level 1 Teaching Assistant role is a paid developmental employment opportunity for a Soundscapes student or emerging youth leader who is ready to move from participant to employee. Teaching Assistants support the Level 1 Director, model positive musical and workplace habits, and gradually take on instructional responsibilities as readiness develops.
The two Level 1 classes operate on different internal schedules, but both Teaching Assistants remain for the full Carver program window. Soundscapes prefers candidates who can work both Mondays and Thursdays, but each position may be divided. Students who can commit consistently to at least one regular program day each week are encouraged to apply.
Teaching Assistants are expected to meet professional standards while receiving coaching through the Soundscapes CATS model: Citizen, Artist, Teacher, and Scholar.
CORE RESPONSIBILITIES
- Arrive prepared and on time and model dependable, respectful, and professional workplace habits.
- Assist with singing, movement, music literacy, bucket band, recorder, exploratory instruments, violin, and ensemble activities.
- Lead warm-ups, small-group practice, transitions, or short instructional activities when assigned and prepared.
- Model foundational musicianship, instrument care, rehearsal etiquette, active listening, and positive participation.
- Build supportive relationships with students and reinforce expectations with patience, empathy, fairness, and consistency.
- Assist with arrival, snack, attendance, transitions, supervision, dismissal, family events, and the setup and organization of instruments and materials.
- Share relevant observations about student engagement and progress with the Level 1 Director and site leadership.
- Participate in professional development, coaching, staff meetings, reflection, performances, field trips, and special activities.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Must be at least 16 years old by September 21, 2026.
- Active participation in a Soundscapes program is strongly preferred and will receive priority consideration.
- Demonstrated musical study through Soundscapes, a school or community ensemble, church, youth orchestra, private study, or equivalent experience. A college music degree is not required.
- Ability to sing and/or perform on a principal instrument well enough to model basic musical concepts and healthy performance habits.
- Interest in music education, youth development, community service, and music as a vehicle for social change.
- Dependability, punctuality, patience, clear communication, and willingness to receive coaching and apply feedback.
- Reliable transportation or a dependable plan to arrive at Carver Elementary on time.
- Employment is contingent upon completion of applicable employment documentation, youth-employment requirements, and screening processes.
- Finalists will sing and/or perform on a principal instrument and lead a short instructional activity during the interview process.
HOW TO APPLY
Email a brief letter of interest, a resume if available, and contact information for two references to [email protected]. Identify the Soundscapes program in which you participate and the regular program day or days you can commit to. No phone calls, please.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Soundscapes is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages candidates of all backgrounds and experiences to apply.
Email a brief letter of interest, a resume if available, and contact information for two references to [email protected]. Identify the Soundscapes program in which you participate and the regular program day or days you can commit to. No phone calls, please.
