"Teaching Assistant Professor - Elementary Education (Emphasis in Social Studies)"

Description

West Virginia University (WVU) invites applications for a Teaching Assistant Professor position in its Elementary Education program, beginning in August 2026. This faculty position is housed in the School of Education and Counseling within the College of Applied Human Sciences at West Virginia University. This faculty member will provide expertise and support in the Elementary Education program, through teaching and service responsibilities, in two core areas-(1) preparing teacher candidates in content and pedagogy related to the teaching and learning of social studies in the K-6 grades, and (2) support strong partnerships and practice among teacher candidates and mentor teachers in field and clinical experiences.

Appointment

The position appointment will be based at WVU's Morgantown campus with a nine-month faculty appointment, beginning August 15, 2026. Summer teaching opportunities may be available based on course demand. Teaching positions at WVU are full-time, non-tenure track, with no research component.

Responsibilities

We are seeking a highly qualified individual who will contribute to the mission of the institution by working with faculty, learners, and community partners in a dynamic and collaborative environment. As a teaching-track faculty member, the successful candidate will:

• Teach undergraduate courses in the Elementary Education B.A. program, with a particular focus on social studies content and methods courses for elementary teacher candidates
• Develop and deliver engaging, evidence-based instruction that prepares future teachers to create high-quality social studies learning experiences for all K-6 learners
• Coordinate and supervise field placements and clinical experiences, building and maintaining strong partnerships with K-6 schools and mentor teachers throughout the region
• Provide mentorship and guidance to teacher candidates during their practicum and student teaching experiences, including conducting observations and providing constructive feedback
• Contribute to program assessment, accreditation, and continuous improvement efforts
• Provide service to the school, college, university, and profession through committee work, professional organizations, and community engagement

The successful candidate will have opportunities to shape curriculum, develop innovative teaching approaches, and help prepare the next generation of elementary educators who will inspire young learners to become informed, engaged citizens.

Qualifications

Minimum qualifications require:

• An earned doctorate in Elementary Education, Curriculum and Instruction, Social Studies Education, or a closely related field (ABD candidates may be considered with completion of the doctorate expected by August 15, 2026)
• Successful K-12 teaching experience, with preference for experience in K-6 classrooms
• Demonstrated expertise in elementary social studies education, including knowledge of state and national social studies standards
• Excellent communication (written and oral), interpersonal, and organizational skills

Preferred qualifications include:

• Experience teaching at the college/university level, particularly in elementary education teacher preparation programs
• Experience coordinating or supervising field placements and clinical experiences in teacher education
• Familiarity with teacher education accreditation standards (e.g., CAEP, state program approval)
• Active engagement in professional organizations related to elementary education and/or social studies teacher education (e.g., NCSS, CUFA, state education associations)
• Experience with online and hybrid course delivery
• Record of effective collaboration with P-12 schools and educational partners
• Valid or eligible for a West Virginia teaching certificate or professional educator license

Application Materials

To apply, candidates must upload a letter of application, curriculum vitae, and contact information for four professional references (names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses) to WVUHire at https://careers.wvu.edu/career-opportunities. The screening of applications will begin on February 15, 2026. Only complete applications will be considered further.

Direct specific application questions to: Dr. Johnna Bolyard, Search Committee Chair, School of Education and Counseling, PO Box 6122, Morgantown, WV 26506-6122, E-Mail: johnna.bolyard@mail.wvu.edu.