Assistant Professor – Teaching, Learning and Education Studies – Tenure Track

College College Of Educ & Human Dvlpmt

Executive Area Provost & VP Academic Affairs

Department Teaching, Learning, Ed Studies

Posting Number F205P

Job Type Tenure Track

Pay Type Exempt/Salaried

Pay Grade I30

Campus Location WMU-Kalamazoo – Main Campus

Salary Range Pay is commensurate with qualifications and experience, combined with an excellent benefits package.

Number of Vacancies 1

General Summary 

Western Michigan University’s Department of Teaching, Learning, and Educational Studies, within the College of Education and Human Development, invites applications for a Tenure Track Assistant Professor of Early Childhood Education. This position offers an exciting opportunity for an emerging scholar to contribute to a dynamic academic community dedicated to excellence in teaching, research, and service in early childhood education. The successful candidate will strongly commit to advancing the field through engaging teaching, innovative research, and meaningful service to the university and broader educational communities. We seek a candidate passionate about preparing future educators and leaders in early childhood education, focusing on fostering inclusive, developmentally appropriate practices in diverse learning environments.

Major Duties 

• Support and advance the mission of the department of TLES and Western Michigan University by fostering a learning environment that supports students and contributes to the department’s strategic goals.
• Instruct undergraduate and/or graduate-level courses in Early Childhood Education using varied approaches, including face-to-face, hybrid, and virtual classes.
• Supervise pre-service and intern teachers in Early Childhood Education settings, providing academic advising and mentorship to students and supporting their academic and career development.
• Maintain an active research agenda in early childhood education, leading to publications in peer-reviewed journals, presentations at conferences, and applying for research funding.
• Engage in service to the professional community through participation in relevant associations.
• Engage in outreach activities and community partnerships.
• Contribute to departmental committees, participate in faculty governance, and engage in university-wide initiatives.
• Collaborate with colleagues to enhance the department’s programs and initiatives.
• Minimum Qualifications
• PhD in early childhood education or related field (ABD considered if degree is conferred by start date) from an accredited institution.
• Experience teaching (3 years minimum) in early childhood settings.
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, social justice, and inclusion.
• Emphasis on a developmentally relevant approach to teaching Early Childhood Education.
• Evidence of a focused research plan.
• Focus on collaborative multi-disciplinary work.
• Desired Qualifications
• Experience teaching at undergraduate and/or graduate levels, particularly in Early childhood Education.
• Specialization or focus on the developmental and educational needs of children from age 3 – grade 3.
• Knowledge of the unique needs of multilingual learners and strategies to support their success.
• Involvement in professional, educational, and/or community-based organizations related to early childhood education.
• Interest in curriculum development, program evaluation, and/or the creation of new courses to meet emerging educational needs.
• Understanding of the grant writing process and interest in seeking funding for educational initiatives or research.
• Special Instructions to Applicants
• Go to: wmich.edu/hr/employees/faculty for benefits and other information.
• Online applications should include:

1. Curriculum vitae

2. Cover letter of application that addresses fulfillment of qualifications

3. Contact information for three individuals who have agreed to provide a letter of recommendation (letters will be requested for shortlisted candidates only).

4. Statement of research agenda/philosophy.

5. Philosophy of teaching.

• Additional Position Information
• SALARY: Commensurate with experience and qualifications.

REQUIRED APPLICATION DOCUMENTS AND PROCEDURE:

• Qualified candidates must apply online and submit a curriculum vitae, a cover letter outlining qualifications and interest in the position, and contact information for three professional references. Please apply online at http://www.wmich.edu/hr/jobs/.

Please direct any questions about the job position to Dr. Andrea Smith, [email protected].

EXPECTED START DATE: August 15, 2025

Review of applications will begin November 11, 2024, and continue until the position is filled.

WMU is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Minorities, women, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and all other qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.

The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching classifies WMU as a Doctoral University with high research activity.

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