Assistant Professor in Elementary Education (Reading) - Tenure Track

About Us

Savannah State University established in 1890, is the first public historically black college or university in the state of Georgia and the first institution of higher learning in the city of Savannah. The universitys students select majors from five colleges:

• Business Administration
• Education
• Engineering and Computing
• Media, Arts, and Communication
• Science and Humanities

The campus is by far the most picturesque in the state of Georgia. The moss-laden sweeping oak trees, expansive marsh and historic architecture create a resplendent yet tranquil atmosphere. Beneath the beauty and splendor is a vibrant residential campus bursting at the seams with the vim and vigor of quality collegiate life: relevant academic majors, engaging lectures, cutting-edge research, quality student-faculty engagement and a nurturing environment.

Job Summary

The Assistant Professor in Elementary Education (10 month) with an emphasis in Reading will prepare future educators to implement evidence-based literacy instruction in various elementary classrooms. Starting in Fall 2026, this position emphasizes teaching, research, and service focused on the Science of Reading, literacy development, and early intervention strategies. The successful candidate will contribute to the advancement of teacher preparation programs by integrating the principles of the Science of Reading into curriculum design, field experiences, and research initiatives.

NOTE: In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required eligibility verification form upon hire. This position does not offer sponsorship for employment visas.

Responsibilities

• Teach undergraduate and/or graduate courses in literacy development, reading instruction, and assessment based on the Science of Reading principles.
• Develop and implement research-based instructional practices that support all learners, including students with reading difficulties and disabilities.
• Supervise preservice teachers during clinical and field experiences, emphasizing literacy instruction and intervention strategies.
• Conduct and publish scholarly research related to the Science of Reading, literacy instruction, or related areas in peer-reviewed journals.
• Collaborate with faculty, local schools, and community organizations to enhance literacy instruction and professional development opportunities.
• Participate in curriculum development and program assessment to ensure alignment with state and national standards, including accreditation requirements.
• Mentor and advise students in teacher preparation programs, fostering their academic and professional growth.
• Engage in service activities at the department, college, university, and professional levels to advance the mission of the program.

Required Qualifications

• Earned doctorate in Elementary Education.
• Demonstrated teaching experience in K-5 literacy instruction, with expertise in the Science of Reading. Must be certified and have Reading Endorsement.
• Evidence of or potential for scholarly productivity, including research publications and conference presentations.
• Experience in mentoring or supervising preservice teachers in field placements or internships.
• Knowledge of state and national literacy standards, including evidence-based practices in reading assessment and instruction.

Proposed Salary

The salary for this position is $65,000.00 annually.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Expertise in the Science of Reading, including phonics, phonemic awareness, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension strategies.
• Deep understanding of assessment tools and data-driven decision-making to inform reading instruction and intervention.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for effective collaboration with students, colleagues, and community partners.
• Ability to integrate appropriate teaching practices and promote literacy instruction for all types of learners.
• Proficiency in using technology to enhance literacy instruction and student engagement
• Strong organizational and time-management skills to balance teaching, research, and service responsibilities.

Apply Before Date

Review of applications will begin upon receipt. For best consideration, apply by July 31, 2026.

Contact Information

For more information or questions about a job posting, please contact the Department of Human Resources at hr@savannahstate.edu. For technical support, please call the USG Service Desk at (877) 251.2644, or email support@usg.edu.

USG Core Values

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found on-line at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct.

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found on-line at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.

Institutional Values

At Savannah State University, five core values shape everything we do:

• Belonging - Building a community where all voices are valued and respected.
• Collaboration - Working together across disciplines and communities for shared success.
• Discovery - Pursuing knowledge, research, and exploration that expand horizons.
• Excellence - Committing to superior achievement in every endeavor.
• Resilience - Rising stronger through challenges with determination and adaptability.

These principles guide our culture, inspire our teams and define the kind of workplace we strive to build; one where every individual can thrive, contribute, and grow.

Conditions of Employment

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with Savannah State University, as determined by Savannah State University, its sole discretion, confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. Applicants may be subject to a pre-employment drug test. Offers are made expressly subject to the applicable federal and state laws, to the statutes, rules and regulations of this institution and to the Bylaws and Policies of the Board of Regents (BOR) of the University System of Georgia (USG), which are available for your inspection upon request.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Equal opportunity and decisions based on merit are fundamental values of the University System of Georgia (USG). The Board of Regents prohibits discrimination on the basis of an individuals age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status ("protected status"). No individual shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise subjected to unlawful discrimination, harassment, or retaliation under, any USG program or activity because of the individuals protected status; nor shall any individual be given preferential treatment because of the individuals protected status, except that preferential treatment may be given on the basis of veteran status when appropriate under federal or state law.

All employment processes and decisions, including but not limited to hiring, promotion, and tenure, shall be free of ideological tests, affirmations, and oaths, including diversity statements. The basis and determining factor for all such decisions should be that the individual possesses the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities associated with the role, and is believed to have the ability to successfully perform the essential functions, responsibilities, and duties associated with the position for which the individual is being considered. At the core of any such decision is ensuring the institutions ability to achieve its mission and strategic priorities in support of student success.

For questions or more detailed information regarding this policy please contact the Savannah State University, Office of Human Resources at hr@savannahstate.edu. Individuals requiring disability related accommodations for participation in any event or to obtain print materials in an alternative format, please contact the Office of Human Resources at hr@savannahstate.edu.

Special Applicant Instructions

• Applicants must include a list containing the name, e-mail address and telephone number for three (3) professional references (e.g. supervisor, mentor, colleague).
• Applicants must upload transcript(s) with the application. Unofficial are acceptable. Official transcript(s) required upon hire.
• Applicants must attach a narrative that details their teaching and research interests.