Director fo Transitional Certification Program, Teacher Education

Director of Transitional Certification Program, Teacher Education

As a vital part of the Department of Teacher Education at the University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK), the Transitional Certification Program (TCP) offers innovative pathways into teaching in K-12 classrooms, including secondary content areas, K-12 art, music, health and physical education. We are looking for our next director who will serve as a collaborative, mission-centered leader who understands and implements innovative teacher preparation to support and respond to K‑12 partners’ needs, ensuring that the program prepares the well‑trained, high‑quality educators our schools and students deserve.

The Director provides academic, administrative, and strategic leadership for a graduate‑level teacher preparation program leading to initial licensure. Responsibilities include program design, delivery, evaluation, and continuous improvement to ensure alignment with institutional mission, accreditation standards, licensure requirements, and best practices in educator preparation.

Key responsibilities include:

• Curriculum leadership and faculty supervision and development
• Accreditation and compliance management
• Student recruitment, advising, and retention
• Partnership development with PK‑12 schools and community partners
• Assessment of candidate and program outcomes
• Representation of the program internally and externally with accrediting bodies, the Nebraska Department of Education, K‑12 school districts, and other stakeholders

Qualifications

• Earned doctorate in education or a related field
• Significant experience in teacher education and program administration
• Knowledge of accreditation and licensure requirements, data‑informed decision‑making, and inclusive, student‑centered practices
• Strong leadership, communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills

Required Qualifications

• Graduate degree in education or a related field
• Eligibility for a Nebraska Teaching License

Preferred Qualifications

• Terminal degree (Ed.D. or Ph.D.) in education or a related field
• Minimum of two years teaching experience in K‑12 school environments
• Experience developing curriculum, supervising instruction, learning coaching, or teacher coaching
• At least two years of administration experience (higher education or K‑12)
• Experience leading or teaching in accelerated or alternative pathways into the teaching profession

How to Apply

Submit application materials at UNK Employment Opportunities before February 22, 2026
. For questions, contact Jesslyn Hollar (hollarj2).

Upon a contingent offer of employment, the University of Nebraska will conduct an investigation of employment records, educational records, criminal records, and other records to verify the information provided in your application.

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, or political affiliation. Veterans and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. For more information, visit Annual Security Report.