Youth Programs Educator

Description

This full-time, temporary position at Walking Mountains requires an experienced educator prepared to teach a variety of programs within the Youth Programs Department. The Youth Programs Educator prepares and teaches natural science programming in the field (and occasionally in the classroom) during our summer science camps, school field science programs, and after-school or early childhood programs. This is an 8-month position with potential for an additional year-long extension.

The Youth Programs Educator reports directly to the Youth Programs Director.

Teaching:

• School Programs:
  Teach standards-based science topics during field programs to a group of 10-13 students in grades K-8, in all weather conditions, utilizing inquiry-based, hands-on teaching methods.
• Conduct occasional pre-classroom visits prior to students participating in a field program.
• Teach occasional overnight school programs at our Sweetwater Campus or backcountry huts, including some meal preparation, evening programming, and on-call support overnight.
• Summer Programs:
  Co-teach weeklong day camps, 2-day camps, and occasional 2-night overnight camps focused on natural science topics, exploration, and fun for up to 13 campers in grades K-9.
• Teach occasional 3-day, 2-night overnight camps in a backcountry hut or yurts, which include meal preparation, evening activities, and overnight supervision.
• After school/Early Childhood Programs:
  Lead one after school or Early Childhood Education program throughout the school year as program schedules require.

Program Preparation and Logistics:

• Engage in reflective teaching practices, including regular preparation and review of curriculum, development of science content knowledge, and ongoing adaptation of teaching techniques following field experiences and feedback.
• Rotate 'Lead Educator' responsibilities and assist with program preparation, coordination, and teacher/parent communication.
• Contribute to creation and maintenance of teaching materials for school and summer programs.
• Assist with database management, including student participation data, assessment data, and evaluations.
• Take program photos and collect student work to be used for website updates and development efforts. There are opportunities to be involved in creating marketing and social media as well.

Learning Community:

• Work as a productive team member with other educators/fellows and managers in the office to organize, develop, and improve curriculum and materials utilizing an ongoing program evaluation, curriculum review, and revision process.
• Contribute to a positive team dynamic within the larger youth programs department.
• Be a collaborative member of a supportive teaching and learning community by sharing your knowledge and expertise and being willing to learn from others.
• Be a positive, responsible, and respectful member of the on-campus housing community and follow all housing policies.
• Contribute to the local community through researching, writing, and submitting blog posts and Curious Nature articles.
• Complete required formal observation/coaching sessions.

Curriculum Development:

• Assist in ongoing program evaluation, curriculum review, and revision based on Walking Mountains' program goals and objectives, Eagle County Schools' needs, Colorado Academic Standards, Next Generation Science Standards, and various pedagogies.
• Participate in development and revision of existing summer camp or school field curricula during curriculum work days and special project assignments.

Special Events & Assignments:

• Participate in organization-wide fundraising and special events outside of normal work hours (i.e., A Taste of Nature, Fright at the Museum, EdVentures, etc.).
• Complete a passion or…