Assistant Professor of Education (Special Education)

We seek a faculty member with expertise in special education. Candidates with experience in evidence-based reading instruction are preferred. We welcome applications from candidates who are members of historically underrepresented groups. We expect our new colleague to be committed to inclusive, equitable teaching. This faculty member will likely teach Educational Psychology as well as other undergraduate and graduate courses in special education, including Instructional Approaches for Students with Disabilities and Practicum, Assessment and Evaluation in Special Education, IEP Implementation & Case Management and Transition, Survey of Special Ed and Special Ed Law, as well as graduate methods classes. The faculty member will also organize and facilitate the spring Special Education Conference for area teachers. 

Primary responsibilities
●    Teach a 3/3 load with a mix of online and face-to-face classes. 
●    Advise undergraduate students.
●    Supervise undergraduate and graduate preservice teachers in local and distance practicum experiences, depending on course assignment. 
●    Maintain an active scholarly agenda resulting in presentations at local, regional, and national conferences and publications. 
●    Maintain active membership in relevant state and national organizations. 
●    Support the Randolph College Educator Preparation Program’s accreditation and program approval processes. 
●    Collaborate with local schools and school leaders to create and sustain mutually beneficial partnerships. 
●    Engage in service to the College, community, and profession. 
●    Demonstrate a strong understanding of and commitment to a liberal arts education. 
●    Demonstrate a strong understanding of the social constructivist approach to education and commitment to preparing teachers able to combine research skills, social responsibility, effective instructional practice, content expertise, and leadership skills in their future classrooms. 
Required qualifications
●    A PhD or EdD in special education, curriculum and instruction, or a related field. (ABD candidates with a plan to finish by August 2027 will be considered.) 
●    At least three years of experience as a licensed teacher in grades PK–12 in a public U.S. school. 
●    Evidence of or potential for excellence in undergraduate and graduate instruction.
●    Evidence of an active or burgeoning research agenda.

The Randolph College Education Department prepares undergraduate and graduate students for licensure in elementary education, special education, and a number of secondary/all-grades areas. At the undergraduate level, we support two undergraduate majors (elementary and special education); a minor in race, culture, and equity in education; and a secondary/all-grades licensure pathway. At the graduate level, we offer a fully online Master of Arts in Teaching leading to licensure and Master of Education for candidates not seeking licensure. 

Our department prepares candidates to teach effectively, to act as leaders in school communities, and to serve as agents of equity and change. Our work reflects the College's motto of vita abundantior—a life more abundant—by promoting joy, curiosity, and the love of learning as essential parts of a meaningful life. The philosophical foundation of Randolph’s Educator Preparation Program begins with the fundamental belief that culture and community influence learning, and our social constructivist approach helps candidates grow as culturally relevant and responsive educators. Our primary goal is to foster the development of highly qualified teachers and leaders in PK–12 schools and a range of other educational settings. 

How to Apply

To apply, please send the following materials to specialedsearch@randolphcollege.edu:
1.    A cover letter addressing position responsibilities and qualifications; 
2.    A current curriculum vitae; 
3.    A statement of teaching philosophy that includes evidence of teaching effectiveness and alignment with the department’s social constructivist philosophy and commitment to inclusivity; 
4.    An unofficial graduate transcript (official transcript required at time of hire); and 
5.    Names and contact information for three references (letters will be requested for those candidates who are interviewed). 

Review of materials will begin on October 16, 2026. 

About Randolph College

Randolph College, founded in 1891 as Randolph-Macon Woman’s College, is a traditional small liberal arts college with a longstanding reputation for excellence in teaching and an appreciation for and commitment to inclusivity. 

In the College’s unique TAKE2 curricular model, students take two courses in 7-week sessions with two sessions per semester. The result is a curriculum that provides time for students to focus on two courses, while balancing other important aspects of the college experience: internships, extracurricular activities, athletics, and jobs.

More information about Randolph College can be found here: http://www.randolphcollege.edu/ 

About Lynchburg, VA

Founded in 1757 by abolitionist John Lynch, Lynchburg, VA is located near the geographic center of Virginia, at the edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Its expanding population supports a vibrant downtown, and offers a variety of cultural, educational, and recreational opportunities, making it an attractive destination for both residents and visitors. The city boasts ample outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, boating, skiing, and access to a municipal park system with urban trails, playgrounds, and swimming pools. The city's arts and theater scene is lively, complemented by museums and a minor league baseball team. Lynchburg is a city with a growing number of employers and businesses, but a low cost of living compared to the nearby cities of Charlottesville and Roanoke. Located approximately 180 miles from Washington, D.C., Lynchburg is accessible via an Amtrak station and regional airport.

Lynchburg is also known for its strong educational presence, housing five colleges and universities, including one HBCU. The city was the home of the Virginia Teachers’ Reading Circle. Established in 1887, the Reading Circle provided professional development for teachers of Black students across Virginia. This group evolved into the Virginia Teachers Association, serving Black teachers in the region until it merged with the integrated Virginia Education Association in 1967. This history of diversity continues to be reflected in the city’s schools today.