Naturalist Educator
Agency: Truckee Meadows Parks Foundation (AmeriCorps)
Location: Reno Nevada
Closing Date: None noted
Contact: Please send resume and cover letter to Devin at devin@tmparksfoundation.org
Term/Grade: Term (1Year)
Position Summary:
The Naturalist Educator will primarily build and enhance the Student Stewards Program, which uses public parks as learning laboratories where students engage in hands-on citizen science.
The mission of Truckee Meadows Parks Foundation (TMPF) is to support the parks departments operating in Truckee Meadows, including Reno, Sparks, and Washoe County. We do this primarily by providing in-park programming and opportunities for citizen engagement. TMPF is an independent, nonprofit organization that began operating in 2013. Our current programs focus on improving community health and wellness and developing peoples’ appreciation for the natural and cultural history found in local parks.
The Naturalist Educator, an AmeriCorps member, will be an essential member of the team for this young non-profit organization. This person will primarily implement and support the Student Stewards Program. The Student Stewards Program uses public parks within walking distance of under-served schools as learning laboratories. Students engage in hands-on citizen science research with a goal of improved academic engagement and better preparation for educational success. This will include teaching a three part class to underserved schools, developing and maintaining relationships with Washoe County schools administration and teachers, and developing and writing curriculum. This AmeriCorps member will also develop and implement the Student Stewards Spring and Summer Camps, a STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) camp for economically disadvantaged students.
Timeline for Service: September 2020 - August 2021
Major Duties:
- Facilitate the Student Stewards Program;
- Write new and enhance current STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics) curriculum using Common Core and Next Generation Science Standards;
- Develop and maintain partnerships with school administrators and teachers;
- Create, write, and implement STEAM and recreational camp programming for the Student Stewards Summer Camp and school break camps;
- Facilitate TMPF’s Junior Naturalist Program.
Secondary Responsibilities
- Facilitate other interpretive programs such as Truckee Meadows Trails Challenge and Discover Your Parks walks;
- Community outreach for the Student Stewards Program;
- Create new adult education programs and events.
See full announcement and apply here.
