Upper School Vocal Arts & Music Teacher

May 13 2026
Island School |Lihue|Full Time, $53,500 - $82,000 / year
Job Description
Island School seeks and Upper School Vocal Arts and Music Teacher with a

commitment to independent school education in a college preparatory environment. This full-time position includes teaching foundational music classes and performance-based classes including directing the Middle and High School choral groups. There is also an opportunity to establish an instrumental music program. Responsibilities also include preparing students for assemblies, performances, and special events.The position begins in late July for the 2026-2027 academic year. Pay range for a full-time faculty member role for 26-27 SY depending on years of experience and education: $53,500-$82,000.

Island School is a WASC/HAIS accredited PK-12 independent day school with a total enrollment of just over 450 students. The school is located on the rural island of Kaua`i, the northwestern most inhabited island in the Hawaiian archipelago, which, due to its stunning natural beauty, is known as the "Garden Island." More information about Island School, its educational philosophies, mission statement, and our curriculum can be found at ischool.org.

The ideal candidate will have the ability to foster studentsʻ musical growth, creativity, and confidence.  The teacher will demonstrate strong musicianship, a passion for teaching music and directing chorus, and enthusiasm for working with students. The successful candidate will communicate effectively with students, parents, and colleagues, and show a desire to be an active member of an independent school community.

Candidates should have experience differentiating instruction to meet the needs of a range of learners and demonstrate effective classroom management strategies. Prior experience teaching music, conducting instrumental ensembles, or leading choral groups is required, along with a minimum of a B.A. in music, education, or a related field. Additional responsibilities include serving as an advisor and full participation in the life of the school. Two or more years of relevant teaching experience, preferably in an independent school setting, is strongly preferred.

Minimum Qualifications include:

  • B.S. / B.A. degree 
  • Demonstrated ability to effectively work independently and in a group
  • Ability to communicate and work effectively with parents, students, faculty, and staff
  • Ability to motivate and manage students in daily course work and through performance contexts
  • Strong work ethic, adaptability, generous spirit, sense of humor, and confidence working with students
  • Commitment to and alignment with the School's mission and vision  

Island School offers a great amount of freedom, flexibility, and collaboration to its faculty. It is a place of intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, growth mindset, and joy. Our collaborative team places the student at the center of our efforts. Our benefits are comprehensive and include health insurance starting at the beginning of your first month of work and a daily delicious salad bar for lunch. Our families are engaged and exceptionally supportive of our work. 

Applications should be directed to Nancy Nagramada, Head of School. Please include a letter of introduction, a résumé, and at least three professional references in a single PDF attachment. We will begin reviewing applications immediately and will close the application period when the position is filled. Information and/or questions may be emailed to: [email protected]. Priority deadline by May 25, 2026. Position will remain open until filled.


Island School is an equal opportunity employer.  The School strives to provide equal employment opportunity to all applicants and staff in accordance with sound employee relations practices and federal and state laws.  Our policy prohibits discrimination and harassment because of race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity or expression), age, national origin, ancestry, marital status, arrest and court record, reproductive health decision, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, domestic or sexual violence victim status, credit history, citizenship status, military/veterans status, or other characteristics protected under applicable state and federal laws, regulations, and/or executive orders.  This policy applies to all aspects of the employment relationship, including hiring, promotions, training, discipline, compensation, working conditions, and benefits.