Graduate Assistantship Information
Graduate Assistantship service hours can include teaching, research, or administrative responsibilities, depending on the position.
Graduate assistants (or GA’s, as they are often called) work on campus 20 hours per week. GA’s receive tuition assistance and a monthly stipend for 9 months.
You can find more information in the FAQ below or in the Graduate Assistantship Handbook.
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Policies
GA Eligibility
Interested students must meet the following eligibility requirements in order to apply:
- Register for at least 9 graduate credit hours in the fall and spring semesters.
- For summer contracts, if the contract ends June 30th the student must register for 3 hours in pre-summer or summer session I. If the contract goes through August the student must register for 3 hours during summer session II. If the summer contract begins in May and ends in August, the student must register for 6 hours in any of the summer sessions (pre-summer, session I, and/or session II). The student may divide the 6 hours between sessions, for example; 3 credit hours in session I and 3 more in session II.
- Not be employed anywhere else on campus.
- Be admitted unconditionally to the degree program. (1 semester exception)
- Maintain a 3.0 GPA.
English Proficiency Requirement
Students whose prior language of education is not English must demonstrate a level of oral
proficiency suitable to the responsibilities assigned to hold an assistantship. Students who meet
this criterion and have a new graduate assistantship contract will receive an email with
instructions on how to sign up for an Oral Proficiency Interview (OPI). This interview will occur
upon arrival at ETSU. Rating on this evaluation will determine eligibility for different categories
of assignments. ETSU provides international students with a variety of opportunities to improve
English fluency during their time as students.Physical Presence in the United States
Students who hold F-1 visas must be physically and lawfully present in the United States to hold
a graduate assistantship.Human Resources and Payroll Procedures
- For more information about payroll, contact information can be found here.
- GA vacancies can be advertized at: https://www.etsu.edu/gradschool/vacancy.php
- If any changes are made to an existing contract, a completed Fiscal Year Salary Allocation form must be sent to the following people:
- Queen Brown - Graduate School
- payroll@etsu.edu - Payroll
- Lauri Hudson- Financial Aid
Requirements for International Students
- If an international student is graduating do not write contracts past the official commencement date
- International students must take the Oral Proficiency Interview immediately upon arrival at ETSU.
- International students applying for full-time graduate assistantships may not hold temporary positions
- International students must have current Glacier paperwork on file before payroll can be processed. For more information contact Jennifer Crigger at criggerj@etsu.edu or by phone at (423) 439-6887.
Deadlines and Fee Payments
- GA Deadlines
- Maintenance Fees (tuition) are the only fees covered by a GA position.
- Students are responsible for all other fees not covered by his or her GA.
- Out-of-State Tuition will be waived after all miscellaneous fees have been paid or a deferred payment option is utilized by the student. A $50.00 fee is charged for the deferred payment option.
- There are only a limited number of summer graduate assistantships. The department must have the accounting number entered to pay summer tuition for graduate assistantships. If your department has a summer appointment, contact Financial Services.
Information is subject to change *
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FAQ
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What is a Graduate Assistantship?
A Graduate Assistantship is an opportunity available to qualifying graduate students for on-campus employment. Graduate Assistants (or GAs, as they are often called) can either work in teaching, research, or administrative roles depending upon the position. Graduate assistants receive tuition assistance and a monthly stipend for 9 months for the academic year. Graduate Assistantships do not cover fees. Stipend amounts vary by programs, with doctoral student stipends typically higher than those for master’s students. For more detailed information about the types of Graduate Assistantships, refer to the GA Handbook (page 5)
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Graduate Assistantship eligibility and requirements
As stated above, a Graduate Assistantship (GA) is an opportunity for qualifying graduate students to work on campus in either teaching, research, or administrative roles. Graduate assistantships receive tuition assistance and a monthly stipend; fees are not covered.
General eligibility requirements for receiving a Graduate Assistantship is that the recipient:
- Must be fully admitted to a graduate program
- Must register for at least 9 graduate hours during the Fall and Spring semester (3 hours during the summer semester if working 5/15-6/30 and 6 hours if working 5/15-8/15). Recipients of Graduate Assistantships must maintain those hours through the semester. If you drop below those hours, you are ineligible and your contract will be reviewed and may be canceled.
- Must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
- Cannot hold another paid position on campus without prior approval of the Dean of ETSU Graduate School.
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How do I find and apply for a GA position?
To apply for a Graduate Assistantship (GA) you must first check the appropriate box on your graduate school application package. Once you have submitted your application it will be forwarded to the graduate coordinator assigned to the graduate program you are applying for admission into. We strongly encourage you to contact the department in which you would want to work and express your interest in a GA If you are unable to get a position in your department you can go online to the graduate school web site and click on Assistantships. You may then view current vacancies by clicking on the Current List of Available GA Positions. Openings are posted at the request of a department and the list can change, so check it often. GA's are available all across campus, not just in academic departments. Once you have obtained a position with a particular department, please go to Human Resources to complete all of the appropriate paperwork. The department will complete a GA online appointment that will be submitted to the Graduate School Office for processing. The general requirements to hold a GA are as follows:
- Must be fully admitted to a graduate program.
- Must register for at least 9 graduate hours during the Fall and Spring semester (3 hours during the Summer semester if working 5/15-6/30 and 6 hours if working from 5/15-8/15). Candidate must maintain those hours throughout the semester. If you drop below hours, you are ineligible and your contract will be reviewed and may be cancelled.
- Must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
- You cannot hold another paid position on campus without prior approval of the Dean, ETSU Graduate School.
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Are Graduate Certificate students eligible for a GA?
No, students in graduate certificate programs are not eligible for a GA. -
I am in an a fully online ETSU graduate program. Am I eligible for a graduate assistantship?
Applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis. -
What is a half GA and can a graduate student have two half GA's in separate areas?
A half GA is the same as a regular GA except the student works half the hours (10 hours) receiving half the regular stipend per month and half tuition coverage. A student may have two half GA's under different supervisors or in different areas as long as the student works 10 hours within each area totaling 20 hours a week. A student with two half GA's would, therefore, receive a full stipend and full tuition coverage. -
I understand that students are restricted to a two year limit, but do not know what the policy is for a returning student working on a second Master's degree. May I accept another GA position?
The number of terms/years of eligibility for students pursuing masters and doctoral degrees can be found in the GA handbook. Students pursuing dual masters degree programs or second masters degree programs may be considered for a third year of support (one additional year); approval is considered by the Dean or Associate Dean of the ETSU Graduate School in response from a request from the students current Graduate Program Coordinator and by the GA contracting unit. All other requirements of eligibility must be met. -
What happens if I want to move from a full GA to a half GA mid-semester?
A student may not move from a full GA to a half GA mid-semester due to the terms of their contract. Any changes, made to a contract agreement would require new appointments subject to approval, reasonable notice, and appropriate paperwork. Changes are generally not approved midway or late in the semester. -
Are students granted deferred action status (DACA) eligible for a graduate assistant?
No. In the state of Tennessee individuals granted deferred action status are not eligible to make use of public funds for the purposes of higher education, a prohibition that includes such things as in-state residency classification as well as publically funded scholarships and assistantships like graduate assistantships. -
Are there any fees that a GA will not cover?
Yes. A GA waiver will not cover a student's program service fee or specialty course fees. Students are responsible for making arrangements to pay those charges by the Friday before classes begin. Basically, the GA waiver will cover the maintenance fee (i.e. tuition) only. All other charges such as business course fees, technology fees or international insurance etc. should be handled by the student. -
What should I do if I add or delete classes after my GA waiver has been posted?
If you register for 9 hours then add or delete classes after your GA waiver has been posted, your tuition waiver amount will not automatically adjust, leaving a balance. It is the responsibility of the student to inform the comptroller's office of those changes so they can adjust your waiver properly. If you drop a class and your total number of graduate credit hours drops below requirements to hold a GA then the contract is subject to cancellation. -
I am in a regular graduate program and want to take a TN eCampus course. Will my graduate assistantship cover the cost of that course?
No, TN eCampus course tuition cannot be covered by graduate assistantships. You may take the course, but you will need to pay the tuition. -
Is the winter session tuition covered for a GA? Do the graduate credit hours count toward spring required hours?
The tuition remission that comes with a GA appointment does not cover tuition for winter session courses and winter session courses do not count toward the requirement to be enrolled in nine graduate hours for spring term. -
Are there any GA positions offered at night or on the weekends for student teachers or others with those scheduling needs?
The only night or weekend positions available are in the Library, computer labs, and coaching positions. Student teachers are strongly advised to not be employed during their student teaching experience, however GA contracts can be submitted to the graduate office to be reviewed on a case by case basis. -
Are GA's eligible for medical leave of absence?
No, there is no provision for a medical or any other kind of leave of absence from a Graduate Assistantship. GA contracts will be canceled as soon as a student decides to withdraw from the University and submits a resignation letter to the graduate studies office. Please refer to the handbook. -
If I have a GA position in the current semester and withdraw from the University, would I be eligible for a GA position the next semester?
This situation would be reviewed on a case by case basis. Special consideration is given to students who have to withdraw due to medical reasons and can provide documentation. -
Do GA's have an official start date and end date?
The general start and end dates are as follows:- Summer term I - May 15 to June 30
- Summer term II - July 1 to August 15
- Academic Year - August 15 to May 15
- Fall only - August 15 to December 15
- Spring only - January 2 - May 15
- Fiscal Year July 1 to June 30
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Do GA's have to work during fall or spring break?
Yes, GA's work according to the campus office schedule. When offices are open, GA's are required to work their hours. When offices are closed--such as holidays or closings due to weather--GA's are not required to work or make up those hours. -
How much do GA's get paid and when?
Stipend levels vary between programs. For academic year contracts (Aug 15 - May 15), the stipend is paid in 8 equal installments on the last business day of the month from September to April. -
What are my employee rights as a GA?
Graduate Assistants should have clear job assignments. Other rights, the evaluation process for GAs, and the appeals process are discussed in the GA Handbook (page 11)
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Is the Best Plus OPI test a one time test or does one have to take it every year?
The Best Plus Oral Proficiency Interview is a one-time test that, if passed, holds for the duration of your time here at ETSU. Students can choose to repeat the test if they wish to try and increase their scores. -
Do non-resident alien Graduate Assistants have to fill out the International Employee/Student Tax Questionnaire every year?
Non-resident alien students must fill out and submit a questionnaire along with each new GA contract that is submitted to the graduate studies office to ensure the student will get taxed properly. The questionnaire can be found here. -
What happens if a GA is put on academic probation?
As stated in the GA Handbook, GA's must maintain a 3.0 grade point average. One who fails to maintain a 3.0 may be allowed 1 semester to remedy the grade deficiency. -
Are parking permits or decals for full-time GA's available for faculty parking?
No, although GA’s are paid by ETSU, they are not considered faculty. Students who also work part-time or are adjunct faculty for ETSU do not qualify to park in faculty/staff parking areas either. -
What are the procedures for resignation from a GA position?
If you wish to resign from your GA position you must send a resignation letter to the graduate school and to your supervisor stating your reasons and the date you will stop working. If you resign mid-semester and retain your classes you will be billed for a pro-rated portion of the tuition. If you resign and withdraw from the university, a pro-rated portion of tuition will be due.
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Available Graduate Assistantship Positions
The following list represents some Graduate Assistantship positions available across campus. This list is updated frequently. It is not an exhaustive list; academic programs may have Graduate Assistantship positions available that are not listed.
Unit managers: To remove a GA advertisement, contact the webmaster at gradapp@etsu.edu
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Full Graduate Assistantships - University Testing Services
Full Graduate Assistantships - University Testing Services
Number of Positions: 1
Contract Dates: May 15, 2026 to Aug 15, 2026
Possible Renewal: Yes
Job Description:
UTS provides a secure and fair testing environment for course testing, high-stakes testing (Praxis, GRE, TOEFL), CLEP, Accuplacer, and other assessments. This position requires 20 hrs per week in the testing center. This is an Administrative GA position. Responsibilities include: Working with the testing coordinator and director in administering and proctoring exams, attaining various proctoring certifications (provided on the job), checking in/out examinees, verifying identity, answering phones. There is also a supervisory component to this position as the testing GA will assist in the training, coaching, and supervision of our undergraduate student workers. The testing GA will work closely with the testing coordinator and director on various projects. Must have strong communication and customer service skills.
Job Qualifications:
For all international applicants: Best Plus 2.0 OPI score of 1
Job Requirements:
Frequent walking, time management skills, punctuality, strong communication, adherence to policy and procedure, strong customer service skills.
Available 20 hours a week Monday - Thursday 9:00am-2:00pm.Application Instructions:
Email resume and cover letter to rodeback@etsu.edu
Contact Information
Jake Rodeback
University Testing Services
Email: rodeback@etsu.edu
Phone: 423-439-6713 -
Full Graduate Assistantships - Student Activities & Organizations
Full Graduate Assistantships - Student Activities & Organizations
Number of Positions: 1
Contract Dates: Aug 15, 2026 to May 15, 2027
Possible Renewal: Yes
Job Description:
The Student Activities & Organizations Graduate Assistant supports the mission of the Office of Student Activities & Organizations by assisting with student engagement initiatives, campus programming, marketing and communications, and organizational support services. This position plays an important role in promoting involvement opportunities and enhancing campus life through creative marketing, event support, and student interaction.
This is a full assistantship position requiring approximately 20 hours per week during the academic year.
Primary Responsibilities.
Development, updating, and maintenance of the Student Activities & Organizations website and related webpages using OU Campus.
Provide marketing and promotional support for SAO, SGA, and campus-wide initiatives including Welcome Week, Homecoming Week, Civility Week, The Summit Awards, campus concerts, and special events.
Design digital and print marketing materials for campus events and student organization programming.
Implement collaborative campus marketing efforts through social media platforms, D.P. Culp Student Center digital signage/TVs, flyers, posters, and other promotional materials.
Manage submissions and updates to the Campus Life Calendar.
Assist with planning, promotion, staffing, and execution of major campus events, organization fairs, leadership programs, and evening/weekend activities.
Create, monitor, and respond to advertising requests submitted through JotForm software.
Assist with management of SAO facility and event reservations.
Support student organizations with event promotion, campus engagement, and communication strategies.
Assist with photography, video, and social media content creation during events.
Monitor social media engagement and help maintain consistent branding and messaging across platforms.
Provide general office support and assist students, campus departments, and registered student organizations as needed.
Participate in SAO trainings, staff meetings, and divisional programs.
Perform other duties as assigned.There may be an opportunity for temporary employment between July 15 and August 15 to assist with Welcome Week preparation, marketing, and summer transition projects.
Job Qualifications:
Experience with webpage development and content management systems.
Experience with graphic design and digital marketing platforms such as Canva, Adobe Photoshop, or Illustrator.
Knowledge of social media management and content creation.
Experience with desktop publishing and marketing design.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
Strong oral and written communication skills.
Experience with event planning, student programming, and/or campus involvement.
Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work independently while also collaborating as part of a team.
Creativity, initiative, and attention to detail.
Previous leadership experience in student organizations is preferred.Job Requirements:
Must be admitted to and enrolled in a graduate program at East Tennessee State University.
Work approximately 20 hours per week in the SAO office.
Maintain professionalism and confidentiality in all office operations.
Availability to occasionally work evenings and weekends for campus events and programs.
Ability to represent the Office of Student Activities & Organizations in a positive and professional manner.
Maintain good academic standing throughout the assistantship.Application Instructions:
Applicants should submit a current resume, a brief cover letter describing relevant experience and interest in the position, and contact information for at least two professional or academic references.
Application materials should be submitted to the Office of Student Activities & Organizations at East Tennessee State University. Send to sao@etsu.edu
Contact Information
Carter Warden
Student Activities & Organizations
Email: wardence1@etsu.edu
Phone: (423) 439-6633 -
Full Graduate Assistantships - Counseling Center
Full Graduate Assistantships - Counseling Center
Number of Positions: 1
Contract Dates: Aug 15, 2026 to May 15, 2027
Possible Renewal: Yes
Job Description:
Works closely with the Clinical Director to design and implement data and assessment tools and procedures, including attending data collection events, compiling assessments and data, and presenting data in a professional manner. Collaborates with other Counseling Center staff and other University departments. This is a 20-hour-per-week, 9-month position, August 15-May 15. Some evening and weekend hours may be required. The stipend plus a tuition benefit. More information can be found https://www.etsu.edu/cbat/computing/graduate_programs/assistantships.php
Job Qualifications:
Must be a full-time, currently enrolled graduate student. (For International students: Must have an approved Visa at the time of Interview or at latest the time of being offered this position.) Must be competent in working with the college-age population. Previous experience in project development, data collection/analysis, peer education, and communication/presentation skills is desirable. Experience with social media is a plus. Applicant MUST be able to work independently, while remaining under supervision of administrative staff. A demonstrated interest in mental health and suicide prevention will be given a priority. Preference given to students in mental health (e.g., Social Work, Mental Health Counseling) graduate program that is considering doctorate/research-based work. Good organizational skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively are essential to success in this position.
Job Requirements:
1. Develop competency in evidence-based practices regarding outreach and prevention programming
2. Work closely with Outreach Coordinator to plan, promote, produce and execute special presentations, programs and events, especially those around suicide prevention and general wellness
3. Support Counseling Center and Wellness in conducting a campus-wide mental health needs assessment, including gathering and entering data
4. Work as a member of the Counseling Center Outreach team to execute a calendar of outreach events, collaborating extensively with other units on campus
5. Promote and attend events hosted by other units
6. Recruit and organize program volunteers.
7. Work within a program budget.
8. Maintain accurate records of all activities and expenses.
9. Collect and synthesize evaluative data for all activities.
10. Maintain a positive and professional demeanor.
11. Represent at all times the values and goals of The Counseling Center—fostering an inclusive environment that honors equity and diversity, respecting the dignity of all people, and demonstrating a passion for mental health and wellness education and advocacy.
12. Provide administrative support to Counseling Center staff as needed and approved by supervisor.
13. Will receive training in evidence-based programs, such as QPR, to support suicide prevention initiatives on campus.Application Instructions:
Please submit current resume/CV and a cover letter for this position to ccoutreach@etsu.edu
Contact Information
Kevin Smith
Counseling Center
Email: smithkm18@etsu.edu
Phone: (423) 439-3333 -
Full Graduate Assistantships - Disability Services
Full Graduate Assistantships - Disability Services
Number of Positions: 1
Contract Dates: Aug 15, 2026 to May 15, 2027
Possible Renewal: Yes
Job Description:
Hold weekly on-campus coaching meetings with assigned students who are registered with Disability Services. Meetings focus on time management, organizational skills, social skills and other soft skills related university life. Mentors work 20 hours a week and create individualized plans and assist students with setting goals.
Job Qualifications:
Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills - both written and spoken
Adaptable and empathetic
Working knowledge and use of scheduling tools
Knowledge of disability preferred
Job Requirements:
Conduct weekly meetings and build rapport with approximately 15 assigned students.
Assist students to establish goals and develop plans to meet them.
Provide the support/ resources necessary to meet student-identified goals.
Record weekly case notes that detail progress and challenges.
Participate in mandatory pre-semester training and weekly training.
Participate in commencement to assist with disability seating as needed.
Application Instructions:
Submit the application form; including resume and cover letter.
Interviews (in-person or Zoom) are planned to be scheduled the first week of June.
Contact Information
Matthew Gilbert
Disability Services
Email: gilbertml@etsu.edu
Phone: (423) 439-8346 -
Full Graduate Assistantships - Military Science
Full Graduate Assistantships - Military Science
Number of Positions: 1
Contract Dates: Aug 17, 2026 to May 07, 2027
Possible Renewal: Yes
Job Description:
Seeking a graduate assistant with a combination of physical education/physical training/strength and conditioning/nutrition background to work with ROTC cadets. Must be available to work with cadets for physical training at 6:00 am.
Job Qualifications:
Degree in PE, physical training, nutrition, a similar degree, or comparable experience in physical training.
Job Requirements:
Report for physical training class at 6 am to work with cadets, M-W-F, on physical fitness requirements for the program. Other hours might be requested to meet with cadets as needed during the day
Application Instructions:
Please send resume and letter of interest to Hannah Powell at powellhm@etsu.edu.
Contact Information
Hannah Powell
Military Science
Email: powellhm@etsu.edu
Phone: (423) 439-4269 -
Full Graduate Assistantships - Military Science
Full Graduate Assistantships - Military Science
Number of Positions: 1
Contract Dates: Aug 24, 2026 to May 07, 2027
Possible Renewal: Yes
Job Description:
Clerical and administrative assistant position to assist in the ROTC program in routine office work, but also to assist in special event planning for multiple events throughout the school year.
Job Qualifications:
Experience in an office setting preferred. Experience with Canva design preferred.
Job Requirements:
Flexible hours available to work with your class schedule. Work will be in the ROTC department for routine clerical duties. Will be asked to attend and assist on special events as class schedule allows.
Application Instructions:
Please send resume and letter of interest to Hannah Powell at powellhm@etsu.edu.
Contact Information
Hannah Powell
Military Science
Email: powellhm@etsu.edu
Phone: (423) 439-4269 -
Full Graduate Assistantships - University School- SPED Department
Full Graduate Assistantships - University School- SPED Department
Number of Positions: 1
Contract Dates: Jul 9,2026 to Dec 11, 2026
Possible Renewal: Yes
Job Description:
This GA position is available for the 2026-27 school year and will be shared between K-12 Special Education classrooms at University School, and will do a variety of jobs such as, but not limited to: copying/filing/mailing confidential paperwork, working with small groups or 1:1, providing coverage when teachers are in meetings, and creating and maintaining spreadsheets/data collection.
School hours are 8:00am to 3:00pm daily. University School is on a year-round calendar and GAs must be available 20 hours per week when University School is in session. Our Fall and Spring semesters are: July 9-December 11, 2026 and January 5-May 21, 2027. There are 3 week breaks in each of these. Our school calendar is accessible here: https://www.etsu.edu/uschool/documents/2026_2027schoolcalendar.pdf
Job Qualifications:
We are looking for graduate students who are pursuing a master’s degree in education, special education, or a therapy related field, and who also have considerable experience working with children with disabilities. We are looking for someone who is positive minded, communicates well with children and adults, dependable, flexible, demonstrates strong organizational skills, and is able to take initiative and respectful direction.
Job Requirements:
University School is on a year-round calendar and GAs must be available 20 hours per week when University School is in session. Our Fall and Spring semesters are: July 9-December 11, 2026 and January 5-May 21, 2027.
Application Instructions:
Applicants should send a cover letter and resume to Kim Greenland (allisonk@etsu.edu) with the subject line “Graduate Assistant”. Please include 3 references in your resume. Posting will remain until filled.
Contact Information
Kim Greenland
University School
Email: allisonk@etsu.edu
Phone: 423 439-8626 -
Full Graduate Assistantships - University School
Full Graduate Assistantships - University School
Number of Positions: 2
Contract Dates: Jul 9,2026 to Dec 11, 2026
Possible Renewal: Yes
Job Description:
GAs at University School do a variety of jobs such as, but not limited to: classroom assistants, lunchroom monitors, substitute teachers, after school program monitors, one-on-one or small group tutoring, school office assistants, counseling office assistants, and PE class assistants. School hours are 8:00am to 3:00pm daily, and our after school program is from 3:15-5:30pm. GAs must have work availability during these time brackets. University School is on a year-round calendar and GAs must be available when University School is in session. Our fall semester runs from July 9, to December 11, 2026.
Job Qualifications:
We are looking for graduate students who have either a teaching or counseling undergraduate degree, or who are pursuing a master’s degree in education or counseling. Others who have considerable experience working with children may also be considered.
Job Requirements:
Applicants must be available to work when University School is in session. Our fall semester starts July 9 and ends December 11, 2026. Our spring semester starts January 5 and ends May 21. Our daily hours are 8:00-3:00 and our afterschool program runs from 3:15-5:30.
Application Instructions:
Applicants should send a complete resume to Dr. Barnett at barnettk@etsu.edu Please include any experience working with children. Please also include 3 references to your resume.
Contact Information
Kelli Barnett
University School
Email: barnettk@etsu.edu
Phone: (423) 439-5924
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