Ethnic Studies (Asian American Studies) Instructor

Ethnic Studies (Asian American Studies) Instructor
Two weeks prior to the deadline to submit applications, the diversity of current applicants will be assessed. Upon review, if the pool does not include sufficient diversity at that time, the application window may be extended.

This position is a high priority for our District for the 2026-2027 year and is contingent upon continued available district, grant and state funding.

WHO WE ARE
The Santa Clarita Community District is committed to achieving educational equity for all students. As presented in our District Strategic Plan, which focuses on Access, Engagement, and Success, “Equity, inclusion, and diversity are not goals in themselves, but ideologies embedded in all actions and planning across all departments and functions of our college and its two campuses.” These areas of focus demonstrate a resolve to focus on student success and confirm that we are at the forefront of change with integrated planning efforts that both evolve and anticipate the needs of our students. We provide students with a rich and dynamic learning experience that embraces differences — fostering healthy inclusion through inquiry, shared dialogue and reflection to ensure that we promote a sense of community, collegiality and cooperation. When you join our team at the Santa Clarita Community College District, you can expect to be part of an inclusive, creative, flexible, innovative and equity-focused community that engages students, each other, and the community in scholarly inquiry, creative partnerships, and the application of knowledge and success.

WHO WE WANT
We value the ability to serve students from a broad range of cultural heritages, socioeconomic backgrounds, genders, abilities, and orientations. Therefore, we prioritize applicants who demonstrate they understand the benefits diversity brings to a professional educational community. The successful candidate must be an equity-minded individual committed to collaborating with faculty, classified staff, administration, students and community partners who share our commitment to closing equity gaps. The Santa Clarita Community College District seeks leaders possessing a strong grounding in academic and student services programs and a thorough understanding of the primary mission of the community college. We seek employees that value mentorship and working in a collegial, collaborative environment, who are conscientious risk takers and transformational leaders guided by a commitment to helping all students achieve their educational goals.

"BIG PICTURE" RESPONSIBILITY
College of the Canyons is seeking a faculty leader in the area of Ethnic Studies (Asian American Studies). This is a 10-MONTH professional, full-time tenure track position beginning Fall 2026. The position may include a combination of teaching, department, college, and community leadership functions. Assignment may include day, evening, and weekend duties at all District sites. ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

• Develops and revises appropriate credit and noncredit program and course curriculum in response to discipline and workforce needs.
• Participates in all course, program and institutional Student Learning Outcome (SLO) assessment processes.
• Teaches a full load of courses in Ethnic Studies, with a focus in Asian American Studies, according to approved curriculum course outlines.
• Engages in ongoing professional development and preparation related to best practices associated with pedagogy, andragogy, and all instructional (including virtual) teaching modalities to address anticipated student and instructional delivery needs.
• Maintains current, accurate records of course enrollment, student academic progress, and reports student progress in a timely manner.
• Supports development and provides leadership in the growth, maintenance, and organization of the Ethnic Studies department.
• Coordinates work, provides guidance for and evaluates adjunct faculty and/or classified staff, college assistants, and adult hourly employees.
• Maintains office hours and participates in department, division, college committees and governance.
• Participates in and implements departmental and college program reviews.
• Participates in additional faculty responsibilities including college decision-making activities related to both professional and academic matters. The activities will occur both within the department as well as in the larger college setting and at all district campuses.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Master’s in African-American/Black/Africana Studies or Latino Studies, La Raza Studies, Chicana/o Studies, or Asian-American Studies, or Native American/ American Indian Studies
OR Master’s in Ethnic Studies.
OR An official transcript documenting successful completion of any Master's degree from an accredited institution of higher education AND official transcripts documenting successful completion of 24 semester units in the discipline at the upper division and graduate level, a minimum of which must be 12 graduate level semester units.

• NOTE ON EQUIVALENCY: Certain combinations of education, experience and other accomplishments in the field may be judged by the District as equal to the stated minimum qualifications for this position. Candidates whose transcripts do not list the title of their degree exactly as listed above, or who otherwise feel they possess such equivalent qualifications, are encouraged to seek consideration on the basis of possessing equivalent qualifications through the Request for Equivalency forms located here. These forms must be uploaded with your application materials.

*Applicants who meet equivalent qualifications must also submit a Request for Equivalency Form.

*Note to current COC adjunct instructors in the discipline: If you were qualified and hired under the previous set of equivalencies, you may still qualify for this position. Please contact Human Resources.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills, Experience and Abilities

• Experience and skill incorporating elements of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility into all areas of responsibility;
• Recent experience working with diverse student populations and an understanding of how historical patterns of exclusion of traditionally minoritized students within higher education shape patterns of participation and outcomes;
• Experience and skill with addressing issues of equity, social justice, and multicultural education;
• Experience in culturally responsive teaching in Ethnic Studies, particularly as it relates to relevance of Ethnic Studies to students’ lives, interests, and communities;
• Experience writing Ethnic Studies curriculum for institutional articulation;
• Knowledge and application of the major epistemological considerations informing the discipline of Ethnic Studies, including relevant history and contexts of the field, contributing theories, and pedagogical approaches;
• Commitment to maintain currency in the discipline, including use of advanced technology required in the discipline.
• Experience with online teaching and pedagogy is desired.
• Strong commitment to professional growth and development, and to the continued innovation and improvement of successful teaching.
• Ability to work effectively with computers and other forms of advanced technology utilized in providing high quality instruction and the understanding and successful use of learning technology.
• Willingness to facilitate and encourage student success by working to develop varied and innovative academic learning environments.
• Ability to communicate professionally and clearly with students and staff, both orally and in writing.
• Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain positive and effective working relationships with on-campus groups (including students, faculty, administrators and staff), as well as, off-campus community and education partners.
• In addition to being well qualified to teach in their respective disciplines, it is desirable that faculty have additional abilities and interests in contributing to other professional pursuits at the College, such as: instructional innovation, second language ability, sponsoring clubs, new program development, student success initiatives and community outreach.
• Demonstrated sensitivity to, and understanding of, the diverse academic, socio-economic, cultural, ethnic and disability backgrounds of community college students.
• Expertise in Ethnic Studies, with a focus in Asian American Studies

Professional Responsibilities

• Faculty members at College of the Canyons facilitate student learning by working to develop every student’s ability and by designing varied and exciting learning environments.

• Faculty members work as team members with all staff, create innovations in teaching and learning methods, and work to provide an environment for students to be partners in learning.
• Faculty members also assist in program planning, carry out related projects and evaluate related department programs and faculty.
• Faculty members carry out their professional responsibilities by participating in the college decision-making activities related to academic and professional matters via meetings, by participating on project teams, by engaging in ongoing and meaningful professional development, and by providing support to students on a one-to-one and small group basis at regularly scheduled times.

• Full-time faculty in Ethnic Studies will help develop the program and the department at College of the Canyons. Ethnic Studies courses are dedicated to the use of curriculum responsive to the students it serves. These efforts include students conducting research on issues of social justice and the use of pedagogical techniques that draw on the traditional theoretical and methodological approaches to Ethnic Studies.

In addition to professional expertise in teaching within the discipline, applicants should possess the following abilities and attitudes that have been identified as important to successful performance in the position.

Professional Abilities

• Success and commitment as a team player, including the ability to engage in cooperative problem solving.
• Success at initiating, executing and following up on projects, including the ability to set specific objectives and measure achieved results;
• A commitment to the mission and values of the community college;
• A positive attitude, including the ability to foster collegiality;
• Flexibility, including the acceptance of and willingness to change;
• Open-mindedness, including fairness and the ability to see multiple perspectives;
• The willingness to take risks and be innovative;
• A willingness to see complex tasks through to completion; and
• The willingness to accept responsibility for professional and personal growth.

Conditions of Employment

• Ten-month position; anticipated starting date August 14, 2026 (start date not negotiable)
• Initial Salary Placement on Academic Salary Schedule C is dependent on education and experience. Initial salary range is from: $79,308 – $126,084 annually (adjusted for 12 months of pay per year). Column placement is based on education and step placement will be based on years of professional experience, not to exceed nine (9) years’ experience for a maximum placement of Step 10. For details, click on link to Academic Salary Schedule.
• Part of the teaching assignment may be evenings and/or weekends at all District sites.
• The instructor may be expected to deliver instruction utilizing nontraditional delivery methods.
• An excellent benefit package including medical, vision, dental, life and Section 125 is offered.
• Proof of eligibility to work in the United States and signing of loyalty oath per government codes 3100-3109.
• Successful completion of background fingerprint clearance, pre-employment physical examination (disabilities not related to the physical job will not affect the application process) and TB screening.
• Meeting applicable eligibility requirements under CalPERS or CalSTRS if you are a current or former member.
• Board of Trustees approval.
• Official transcript must be submitted upon offer of employment.
• Position is contingent upon funding and is subject to change.

Physical Characteristics
Position will require extended periods presenting material in a classroom setting, and frequent periods of movement from one area to another, which may include traversing to different floors of a building. Requires use of a computer and related equipment; frequent exertion of 10-20 pounds of force to move objects; communicating and providing information to others; and travel from site-to-site. In the event of an emergency, employees will be relied upon to serve as emergency workers.

APPLICATION AND SELECTION PROCESS
Applicants are encouraged to complete their applications online. Please visit our website at https://www.canyons.edu/administration/humanresources. If you require assistance, please call the Human Resources Department at (661)362-3427 or our TTY Line at (661)362-5178. Applicants may check the status of their application online and may expect to be notified within approximately 4 - 5 weeks following the Review Date as to the status of their application.

All application materials must be uploaded online or received in the Human Resources Department by the end of the day on the review date in order to assure consideration for this position. Postmark is not acceptable for this purpose. Separate application materials must be submitted for each position applied for. Materials submitted become property of the District and will not be returned, copied, or considered for other openings. The Human Resources Department is located in the University Center, Suite 360 at 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA, 91355.

The following application materials are required for your application to be complete. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

• A District Academic Application.

• Letter of interest (cover letter). In your letter, please address your qualifications and experience as they pertain to the job duties, the demonstrated knowledge, and the abilities section of this announcement. Provides specific details and examples of your direct leadership in achieving the list of minimum and desirable requirements for this position.
• A detailed resume summarizing education and experience.
• College transcripts verifying educational degree(s) required for the position. Submit unofficial copies of transcripts for application purposes. Copies of college diplomas are not acceptable in lieu of transcripts. Important note on minimum education requirements: Units and/or degree(s) earned must have been awarded by a college or university accredited by an agency recognized by the American Council on Post-Secondary Education. Please see our website for evaluation requirements for units and degrees earned at foreign institutions. For your convenience, we accept any company who is a current member of NACES.

• Confidential Recruitment Source Information (Voluntary Survey). This is voluntary and is part of the online applicant profile separate from the application.
• Teaching Philosophy Statement (Please include discussion of the following statements):

• • What do you feel are the best strategies for supporting students who have been historically marginalized?
  • What role should faculty play in student success?
  • Describe how your teaching practice has changes over the years. Provide examples of what motivated the change(s).

• Philosophy of Diversity Statement (Single Page)

• Supplemental Questions. Complete the Supplemental Questions as part of your application packet.

Supplemental Questions

1. Do you possess a Master’s degree in African American Studies, Black Studies, Africana Studies, Latino Studies, La Raza Studies, Chicana/o Studies, Asian American Studies, Native American Studies, American Indian Studies, or Ethnic Studies? If yes, submit transcripts (front and back)
2. Do you possess a Master’s in Ethnic Studies? If yes, submit transcripts (front and back)
3. If you answered "No" to Questions 1 or 2 to qualify for this position, please provide a written response detailing how you meet the equivalency listed to the qualification. Please provide applicable degree information and detailed professional experience information (quantify full-time equivalent years and explain how experience is directly related to the teaching assignment). Please type "N/A" if this question is not applicable.
4. Please describe your experience working with, implementing programs for, and promoting the success of Asian American students.
5. Please describe your direct experience teaching in an online or hybrid environment. Please be specific in describing the software programs and your proficiency in using them in either setting.
6. How do you define Asian American Studies within the broader field of Ethnic Studies, and why do you believe it is crucial to include this specific focus in educational curricula?
7. What role do you believe Asian American Studies plays in fostering critical thinking, social justice advocacy, and cultural awareness among students?

It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that all application materials are fully and correctly submitted. All materials submitted are for this position only and become the property of the District. Materials will not be returned, copied or considered for other openings. Resumes may not be submitted in lieu of the official application form.

The College is expecting to conduct initial interviews the week of June 8, 2026 and final interviews the week of June 15, 2026. This is a tentative schedule and is subject to change.

Please note:

• Skills evaluation of candidates for interview may be required.
• Travel and relocation expenses are the responsibility of the applicant.
• Hiring committees review all complete, qualified application packets. Possession of the minimum qualifications does not guarantee an interview.
• A presentation will be required for those candidates selected for an initial interview.
• Current COC employees who are applying for this position: Please be aware that materials from your personnel file are not included as part of the application file; therefore, please provide the same requested application materials as any other applicant.

Applicants are encouraged to apply online. If you need assistance with the application process, contact:Human Resources Department(661) 362-3427TTY/TDD (661) 362-5178 or visit our website atwww.canyons.edu/offices/humanresources
Position is contingent upon funding. We reserve the right to withdraw, extend the filing date, reopen, or delay filling this position. Recruitment may continue until this position is filled. This recruitment may be used for future vacancies.

EEO POLICY
Santa Clarita Community College District is an Equal Opportunity Employer
The Santa Clarita Community College District is committed to employing qualified administrators/managers, faculty, and staff members who are dedicated to student learning and success. The Board recognizes that diversity in the academic environment fosters awareness, promotes mutual understanding and respect, and provides suitable role models for all students. The Board is committed to hiring and staff development processes that support the goals of equal opportunity and diversity and provide equal consideration for all qualified candidates. The District does not discriminate on the basis of race, religious creed, color, ethnic or national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, uniformed service member status, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, marital status, sex, pregnancy, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected basis under the law.

Applicants who have disabilities may request that accommodations be made in order to complete the selection process by contacting the Human Resources Department directly at 661-362-3427.