Adjunct Instructor- Early Childhood Education

Job Summary

Harris-Stowe State University College of Education invites applications for the position of Adjunct Professor of Early Childhood Education. The successful candidate will provide high-quality in-person instruction to undergraduate students, engage in curriculum development, and support field-based learning experiences that prepare future educators to meet the developmental and educational needs of young children. The instructor will contribute to the mission of the College of Education by promoting excellence in teaching, service, and professional engagement in a higher education environment. The person in this position will report to the College Dean and Department Chair.

Essential Functions

• Teach assigned in-person courses that prepare future early childhood educators through the study of early childhood pedagogy, child development, emergent literacy, curriculum design, and instructional methods within the College of Education.
• Create engaging, student-centered hands-on instruction that aligns with the College’s learning outcomes and accreditation standards (e.g., DESE, AAQEP, and NAEYC).
• Integrate early childhood development theories, play-based learning, and foundational literacy and numeracy concepts into discussion of curriculum, inquiry-based learning, culturally responsive teaching, and classroom practice in early childhood settings.
• Design syllabi, assignments, and assessments that foster critical thinking and the practical application of Early Childhood Education concepts.
• Maintain accurate records of student performance and attendance per institutional policy.
• Participate in faculty meetings, curriculum development, and assessment activities as required.
• Support the College’s mission of diversity, inclusion, and preparing culturally responsive educators.
• Collaborate with department faculty, utilize effective instructional practices, and foster an engaging learning environment that prepares future educators for success in diverse classroom environments.

Minimum Education and Experience

• Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a closely related field; Doctoral degree preferred.
• Demonstrated teaching experience in higher education.
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience teaching in an early childhood classroom and/or serving as an early childhood program or center director.
• Familiarity with NAEYC standards and accreditation processes.
• Strong communication, organization, and interpersonal skills.
• Commitment to in-person instruction and active student engagement.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Canvas, Blackboard, or a similar platform.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong interpersonal, organizational, oral and written communication skills as well as experience with technology.
• A preference will be given to candidates who are self-starters with the ability to work independently, that are innovative, creative and forward thinkers.
• Demonstrated ability to perform detailed work as well as the ability to work as a team member within the College.
• Ability to exercise critical human relations skills in establishing and maintaining positive and effective working relations with students and the University Community.
• Professionalism is essential.

Supervisory Responsibility

• To be able to create a service (in-person, electronic and over the phone) center for the front line of service to enhance the customer experience.
• Be able to enhance an action plan with objectives for managing the administrative functions of the office.
• Be able to execute initial phases of a calendar-based communication plan for routine correspondence.
• Be able to be proactive in problem-solving skills.

Physical Requirements

The ability to stand, walk, sit and use hands for lengthy periods. Must be able to lift or move up to 25 pounds.

Working Conditions and Environment

Within a classroom setting.

EOE Statement

Harris-Stowe State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status.