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Half Term Rosewood Nature Study Area
Education Coordinator

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Summary

The Rosewood Nature Study Area Educator will primarily assist in the growth of the Rosewood Nature Study Area education programs through the development of STEAM curriculum, educational exhibits and material, service learning projects utilizing outdoor classroom space, and teaching education programs at the Nature Study Area.

Position Description

Position Description:

The AmeriCorps Rosewood Nature Study Area Education Coordinator will be an essential member of the team for this young non-profit organization. This person will develop and implement education programs at the Rosewood Nature Study Area as part of the Student Stewards Program. The Student Stewards Program uses public parks and open space as learning laboratories to engage students in hands-on citizen science with the goal of improved academic engagement, better preparation for educational success, and increased interest in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) topics. This will include leading programming, developing and maintaining relationships with Washoe County schools administration and teachers, and developing and writing curriculum. This AmeriCorps member will also support and assist with other Student Stewards programs including the Junior Naturalists Program and the Student Stewards Camp, a school-break STEAM camp for economically disadvantaged students.


Days and Location: Tuesday - Saturday, ~40 hours/week

Reno, NV


Mission:

The mission of Truckee Meadows Parks Foundation (TMPF) is to support the parks department's 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.

Primary Responsibilities

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Develop, schedule, and lead STEAM-based youth educational programming at the Nature Study Area for school groups, field trips, service learning projects, etc;

  • Help develop and form connections between students and the natural world;

  • Inspire students to become stewards of the environment;

  • Design, develop, and create visitor center exhibits and educational materials;

  • Coordinate use of park and visitor center for educational programs and events;

  • Develop and maintain outdoor classroom space;

  • Coordinate with the wetland restoration team in order to facilitate service learning projects for participating youth;

  • Develop relationships with Nature Study Area visitors, community members, volunteers, and city and county parks representatives;

  • Lead interpretive tours throughout the wetland;

  • Create and implement weekend family programs at the Nature Study Area;

  • Daily park opening/closing procedures.

Secondary Responsibilities:

  • Track visitor information, report visitor observations and feedback;

  • Support and assist with other SSP programs such as the Junior Naturalist Program, class field trips, and SSP STEAM camps.

  • Answer questions, provide park and trail information, and interpret the natural and cultural history of the Visitor Center and Nature Study Area;

  • Visitor Center space, exhibit, and garden/planter maintenance.

  • Education animal care and habitat maintenance.

  • Facilitate other interpretive programs such as Truckee Meadows Trails Challenge and Discover Your Parks walks

Qualifications

Qualifications:

  • Passionate commitment to TMPF’s mission and vision;

  • High degree of initiative and spirit of service;

  • Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment;

  • Exceptional writing skills;

  • Strong communication skills;

  • Strong organizational skills;

  • Preferred: Experience working with students, teachers, and volunteers;

  • Preferred: Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Education, Environmental Science, or a related field, or 1-2 years related experience;

AmeriCorps Eligibility Requirements:

  • Be at least 17 years of age at the commencement of service; or be an out-of-school youth 16 years of age at the commencement of service participating in a program described in §2522.110(b)(3) or (g);

  • Have a high school diploma or its equivalent; OR not have dropped out of elementary or secondary school to enroll as an AmeriCorps participant and must agree to obtain a high school diploma or its equivalent prior to using the education award; OR obtain a waiver from the Corporation of the requirements in paragraphs (a)(2)(i) and (a)(2)(ii) of this section based on an independent evaluation secured by the program demonstrating that the individual is not capable of obtaining a high school diploma or its equivalent; or be enrolled in an institution of higher education on an ability to benefit basis and be considered eligible for funds under section 484 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1091);

  • Be a citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States.

  • Successfully pass the National Service Criminal History Check (NSCHC) and National Sex Offender Program Registry check;

Physical Demands:

  • Lift up to 50-70 pounds of material or equipment

  • Bend, life, pull, and push

  • Crouch, stoop, kneel, stand, or bend for long periods of time

  • Walk for long periods of time on uneven surfaces

  • Be outside in extreme heat or cold (depending on season)

Compensation and Benefits

Compensation:

In return for their service, AmeriCorps members receive a modest living allowance of $13,765, loan forbearance on qualifying loans, and will receive a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award of $3,447.50 upon successful completion of service. Training and professional development will be provided.

To apply:

To Apply:

Send cover letter and resume to Youth Education Director Hannah Lansverk Sonnenberg, hannah@tmparksfoundation.org.

Visit the TMPF website, www.tmparksfoundation.org or email Hannah for more information.

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