
Arboretum Education Programs Coordinator

Summary
The Arboretum Educator, an AmeriCorps Member, will be an essential member of the Wilbur D. May Arboretum team. This person will be responsible for managing, implementing, and assisting the horticulturist with the May Arboretum Environmental Backpack program. This includes connecting and maintaining relationships with Washoe County School District teachers and other groups for this field trip program. This AmeriCorps member will also develop teacher training workshops to enhance the program in the classroom. The Educator will also create brochures, flyers, and environmental tour guides for the Arboretum and will train volunteers and docents.
Position Description
The Arboretum Educator, an AmeriCorps Member, will be an essential member of the Wilbur D. May Arboretum team. This person will be responsible for managing, implementing, and assisting the horticulturist with the May Arboretum Environmental Backpack program. This includes connecting and maintaining relationships with Washoe County School District teachers and other groups for this field trip program. This AmeriCorps member will also develop teacher training workshops to enhance the program in the classroom. The Educator will also create brochures, flyers, and environmental tour guides for the Arboretum and will train volunteers and docents.
Member Schedule & Service Location:
Monday - Friday 8:30am - 5pm, some weekends and evenings for special programs and events. Reno, NV
Member Supervisors:
Luke Sorenson, Horticulturist
Wilbur D. May Arboretum
1595 N Sierra St
Reno, NV 89503
(775) 785-4153
Term of Service & Time Requirements:
Member's term of service begins in November/December, 2022 and will be completed by August 11th, 2023. This is a ¾ term AmeriCorps member position. Members must complete 1220 hours of service.
Host Site Agency Mission:
The mission of Truckee Meadows Parks Foundation (TMPF) is to support the parks departments operating in Truckee Meadows, including Reno, Sparks, and Washoe County parks. 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 people’s appreciation for the natural and cultural history found in local parks.
Program Mission:
The Student Stewards Program engages K-12 students in park-based, citizen science projects that encourage higher learning in science subjects.
Primary Responsibilities
Primary Responsibilities:
● Maintain and improve existing public programs with an emphasis on early childhood education;
● Work closely with the Arboretum horticulturist to assist in teaching and leading public programs and tours;
● Coordinate and train volunteers for educational programs;
● Reach out to the Washoe County School District, community, garden clubs, and other organizations and create relationships for field trips and volunteer service opportunities.
Secondary Responsibilities:
● Provide annual program impact and status report to Horticulture Manager;
● Create needs assessment and survey tools;
● Develop brochures, flyers, and environmental tour guides for the Arboretum;
● Assist in social media and website design;
● Perform minimum arboretum preservation.
Qualifications
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
● Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment;
● Exceptional writing skills;
● Strong communication skills;
● Strong organizational skills;
● High degree of initiative and spirit of service.
Required Academic and Experience Qualifications:
Must have a high school diploma or equivalent, or agree to earn a high school diploma or equivalent before using an educational award. It would be useful if members have a Bachelor's degree in education, science, or a related field.
Compensation and Benefits
In return for their service, AmeriCorps members receive a modest living allowance of $13,256 paid biweekly, a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award of $4,547.50, and forbearance and interest payments on qualifying loans.
To apply:
Send cover letter and resume to VP of Education, Devin Genovese at devin@tmparksfoundation.org.
Visit the TMPF website, www.tmparksfoundation.org or email/call Devin at (775) 273-8218 for more information.