Job no: 516725

Work type: Faculty Full Time

Location: UMass Amherst

Department: Student Development

Union: MSP

Categories: College of Education, Faculty

About UMass Amherst

UMass Amherst, the Commonwealth's flagship campus, is a nationally ranked public research university offering a full range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees. The University sits on nearly 1,450-acres in the scenic Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts, and offers a rich cultural environment in a bucolic setting close to major urban centers. In addition, the University is part of the Five Colleges (including Amherst College, Hampshire College, Mount Holyoke College, and Smith College), which adds to the intellectual energy of the region.

Job Description

The College of Education at the University of Massachusetts Amherst invites applications for a position in Special Education as a Clinical Educator at the rank of Lecturer within the Department of Student Development. In response to the shortage of special education teachers nationwide and to fill the need particularly in Massachusetts, the College of Education implemented a relatively new undergraduate-level, evidence-based teacher training program in special education leading to licensure in moderate disabilities for PreK-8 or 5-12. It is designed to disciplinary and U.S. Department of Education standards on evidence-based practices as well as MA Department of Elementary and Secondary Education standards for anti-racist and inclusionary education. The undergraduate concentration in Special Education is positioned to establish UMass Amherst as a preeminent special education training program in the region, state, and nation. It is the only undergraduate special education teacher preparation program in the region run and taught by nationally recognized scholars at a Research-Intensive University. Faculty share a fundamental commitment to social justice and the pursuit of educational excellence. This is a full-time, non-tenure track position, beginning September 1, 2023. Initial appointment is designated for two-years. Further appointments following this two-year hire are contingent upon the availability of funds and satisfactory performance.

The special education program is searching for a candidate with a background in special education and special education teaching experience to support all aspects of the undergraduate teacher preparation program in special education including advising undergraduate students, recruiting undergraduate students, and teaching courses in the undergraduate program. This would include supporting pre-practicum and practicum experiences, supervision of students in pre-practicum and practicum placements, supervising clinical educators who conduct site observations at pre-practicum and practicum placements, communicating with host teachers and supervising teachers, and working with the Educator Preparation Office to ensure students complete all requirements for completion of the special education major and the license in moderate disabilities (e.g., Massachusetts Test for Educator Licensure (MTEL), Candidate Assessment of Performance (CAP), and Tk20).

Minimum Qualifications

Master's degree, Ph.D. preferred, in special education or a related field with an emphasis in mild/moderate disabilities and holds a license or able to become licensed. At least three years of field experience with students with disabilities. Strong organizational skills and experience or a demonstrated capacity to organize and administer a robust teacher training program. Demonstrates a knowledge of and commitment to supporting and implementing evidence-based practices for students with disabilities as well as anti-racist pedagogy and culturally responsive teaching. Expertise in academic assessment, curriculum, and instructional interventions. Experience in university teaching and/or teaching assistantship in education and/or experience leading and implementing professional development and training with pre-service or in-service teachers.

Preferred Qualifications

A doctorate in special education or related field preferred. Candidates with supervision experience and a track record of establishing collaborative relationships between Post-Secondary and School District settings. Experience advising university students and interest in supporting research. Evidence of ability to work collaboratively across disciplines: special education, general education, school psychology, and counseling. Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with colleagues to solve problems that may arise with respect to implementation of the undergraduate program (e.g., course scheduling, changes in state licensure requirements, student issues, etc.).

Additional Information

Advise undergraduate students seeking licensure in special education. Assist with recruitment and management of admissions. Manage and update information on the College Website for the special education undergraduate program. Work with the College's undergraduate advising center and the UMass Educator Preparation Office. Collaborate on accreditation process through DESE, writing licensure data reports, and working with Tk20 requirements for the State. Teaching the equivalent of a 4/3 class load which could include: 320 Collaboration, 325 Intro to Special Education, 398G Pre-Practicum, 431 Math Methods, 494 Integrative Learning Experience, and 500Y Student Teaching seminar, and other courses as needed. Facilitation of practicum and student teaching placements including supervision and facilitation of licensure program may be included and contribute to the course load equivalent. Other activities as needed.

Application Instructions

Along with the application, please submit the following materials (in pdf format). The search will remain open until filled.

1. A letter of interest that addresses the candidate's alignment with the minimum and preferred qualifications.


2. A curriculum vitae.


3. Contact information for three (3) professional references.


4. A one-page statement of vision for the candidate's role in advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice. This may include the candidate's skills, experiences, and commitment to teaching and mentoring, professional service, and past or future research.

The University is committed to active recruitment of a diverse faculty and student body. The University of Massachusetts Amherst is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer of women, minorities, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities and encourages applications from these and other protected group members. Because broad diversity is essential to an inclusive climate and critical to the University's goals of achieving excellence in all areas, we will holistically assess the many qualifications of each applicant and favorably consider an individual's record working with students and colleagues with broadly diverse perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds in educational, research or other work activities. We will also favorably consider experience overcoming or helping others overcome barriers to an academic career and degree.

Advertised: Jan 12 2023 Eastern Standard Time

Applications close: