Job Description
Summary Job Description:
Our WG Ecology, Farm & Garden Science Mentor will focus on integrating science/growing/gardening concepts through the hands-on creation and management of smaller scale farm and garden ecosystem, supporting and including students in elementary and middle grades.
Position Summary:
The Ecology, Farm & Garden Science Mentor is responsible for supporting the school's farm and garden and connecting these spaces as a living laboratory for elementary and middle school students. Our team member will facilitate student learning through project-based activities focused on building and managing ecosystems and developing sustainable solutions within the farm and garden setting.
Duties Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Instruction:
- Research, and implement engaging, project-based lessons that utilize the farm and garden to teach concepts in ecology, biology, earth science, and environmental science.
- Develop curriculum aligned with relevant science standards and tailored to the needs of elementary and middle school students.
- Incorporate hands-on activities such as building different ecosystems, plant care, harvesting, composting, and implementing sustainable farming and gardening practices.
- Utilize instructional strategies that cater to diverse learning styles and abilities.
- Farm and Garden Management:
- Collaborate on the maintenance of the school's farm and garden, ensuring a safe and productive learning environment.
- Plan and manage planting schedules, irrigation, pest control, and soil health.
- Coordinate volunteer involvement and student participation in farm and garden tasks.
- Integrate lessons on sustainable and regenerative farming practices.
- Ecosystem Building and Solutions:
- Lead students in designing, building, and maintaining various ecosystems within the farm and garden, such as pollinator gardens, composting systems, or small wetland areas.
- Guide students in identifying and implementing solutions to real-world challenges related to farm and garden sustainability, such as water conservation, soil erosion, or pest management.
- Encourage students to research, experiment, and analyze the effectiveness of different solutions.
- Assessment and Communication:
- Assess student learning through a variety of methods, including observation, project-based assessments, presentations, and written reflections.
- Communicate regularly with students, colleagues, and parents about student progress and program activities.
- Collaboration and Professional Growth:
- Collaborate with classroom teachers and E.D./Directors, to integrate ecology, farm & garden activities into other subjects.
- Stay updated on best practices in garden-based learning, environmental education, nature learning, and sustainable agriculture.
- Participate in professional development opportunities relevant to the role.
Requirements Qualifications:
- Associates' degree (or related experience) in science, education, environmental studies, or a related field.
- A love for children, their learning and co-creation of ecosystems.
- Experience in garden-based education or working in an agricultural setting.
- Knowledge of elementary and middle school science/ecology/biology curriculum and child development.
- Ability to work effectively with students of diverse backgrounds and learning needs.
- Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
- Passion for environmental stewardship and sustainable practices.
Working Conditions:
- This position involves a combination of indoor and outdoor work, with exposure to various weather conditions (in Austin, Texas).
- The teacher is required to lift and carry moderately heavy items, such as tools and garden materials, soil bags, etc.
- The position may involve prolonged periods of standing, bending, and other physical activities.
- Other duties as assigned.
Nice To Haves Preferred Qualifications:
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a field related to growing and farming.
- Experience in developing and implementing project-based learning initiatives.
- Familiarity with homestead farming or gardening techniques. An ability to co-create with a strong core team for the vision to host edible gardens/a farm and to implementing these with student involvement.
- Knowledge of local ecosystems and agricultural practices.
Benefits Dependent Credit (Free stipend).
Stipend for Wholesome Health Care.
Massage/Monthly via a Partner Organization.
Full food (2 snacks/full lunches, gluten-free, vegan/vegetarian base, fully local and organic).
Great work environment and team.
Training opportunities annually via partner organizations.
Salary: $40,000/annually as a starting salary (depending on experience and education/skill set).
Job Tags
Full time, Local area,