Pre-College Instructor, Foundations of Early Childhood Development (On-Campus), Summer 2026

Columbia Universitys Pre-College Programs for high school students is seeking qualified candidates to develop and teach on-campus courses during Summer 26. 

Reporting to the Senior Director of Instruction and Curriculum for Pre-College Programs Pre-College instructors develop and deliver immersive non-credit courses for high-achieving high school students. They guide and supervise students when classes are in session and write a holistic evaluation of each course participant after classes conclude.

For more information on the programincluding course sessions and timesplease see here.

Course Description
How do young children learn to communicate form relationships or even understand the world around them In this course students explore the fascinating journey of early childhood developmentfrom the first smile to the first steps and beyond. Designed for students interested in education psychology social work or related fields this course provides a deeper understanding of how children grow physically emotionally socially and cognitively during their first formative years.

Through a blend of key developmental theories and practical insights well look at how early experiences shape a childs future. How do family culture and society influence development Why are attachment and emotional regulation so crucial for childrens well-being Well dive into these questions while exploring milestones from infancy through toddlerhood the importance of language and how social interactions foster emotional growth. Students will also gain a broad overview of the American educational system and how it has evolved to support young learners. By the end of the course students will not only understand the key principles of child development but also how to apply this knowledge to create supportive nurturing environments in classrooms clinics and beyond.

Whether students are interested in becoming an educator psychologist social worker or simply want to understand more about the growth of children this course will equip them with the tools needed to support healthy development and positive outcomes for kids.

Course Schedule(s)
Session A: June 29 - July 17 -- 9:10 - 11:00am & 1:10 - 3:00pm
Session B: July 21 - August 7 -- 11:10am - 1:00pm & 3:10 - 5:00pm

Responsibilities:

• Develop course content syllabus lesson plans and assigned work in accordance with Pre-College templates and regulations

• Lead and attend all class sessions including escorting students to and from campus for field trips 

• Establish and maintain a dynamic in-class environment tailored for our high school population

• Evaluate student work and write a holistic evaluation of each participant after the course ends

• Monitor and address student concerns and inquiries (typical class size is 20-24 students)

• Attend and complete all required online trainings

Qualifications :

• Graduate degree or equivalent professional or academic background
• Expertise in the pertinent subject matter
• Aptitude for teaching

Additional Information :

Hiring Salary Ranges: 

• Session A & B (Campus 3 Week): $7000 - $9000

Please specify which session(s) you would be interested in teaching in the Message to Hiring Manager field.  

• Please submit a resume inclusive of teaching experience as well as formal teaching evaluations (if available)

• Applicants must have U.S. work authorization and will need to be in the U.S. while teaching

• Columbia Affiliates: There may be restrictions when hiring individuals who hold a concurrent appointment at Columbia University during the Summer term. Generally PhD students and Officers of Research are not eligible. Please check with us during the hiring process regarding your eligibility. Please note Pre-College courses do not count towards the maximum course loads for adjuncts.

• Once hired applicants are required to submit to a third party background check and complete Protection of Minors training in addition to other training(s) mandated by the University and Pre-College Program

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Remote Work :

No

Employment Type :

Part-time