Fiddleheads Forest School Substitute Teacher; Intermittent

Position: Fiddleheads Forest School Substitute Teacher (Intermittent)

Job Description

University of Washington Botanic Gardens has an opportunity for several part‑time, intermittent, hourly Fiddleheads Forest School Substitute Teachers .

University of Washington Botanic Gardens (UWBG) Education Program Mission:

Provide meaningful educational experiences that enrich participants’ connections with plants and the natural world.

Program Overview:

The University of Washington Botanic Gardens Youth and Family Education programs serve over 10,000 youth ages 2‑18 and their families each year through family classes, school field trips, summer camp and preschool programs. Tucked within the University of Washington Botanic Gardens and the Youth and Family Education Programs is the Fiddleheads Forest School, an entirely outdoor preschool for students ages three to six.

At the Fiddleheads Forest School, we aim to foster a sense of wonder, to guide rather than compel, and to provide room for possibility rather than attempt to constrain children’s interests to fit within a certain curriculum. Unlike traditional programs, at the Forest School our classroom grows and changes along with its students. This dynamic environment offers an unparalleled setting for the development of self‑regulation and fundamental appreciation for the natural world.

Our unique, child‑driven curriculum addresses the individual developmental needs of every student. Each day is approached with joy and wonder at the wide world around us.

General Duties/

Description:

Under general supervision, this position will assist the teachers with all aspects of implementing a weekly, part‑day nature preschool program. During the school year, this position will assist teaching classes of up to 14 students with variable shifts between the hours of 8:00AM and 4:30PM while spending the vast majority of that time outdoors, exploring the natural world through age‑appropriate lessons and activities.

Hours and weekly schedule are variable up to 15 hours per week.

Essential Tasks:

• Fill in as a substitute assistant preschool teacher for teachers out on leave
• Co‑lead prepared activities for 3‑6 year olds that fulfill the age‑appropriate curriculum established
• Assist students with established activities, using items found in nature, that help 3‑6 year olds discover and learn from the things that make up the natural world
• Model a healthy relationship with and curiosity for the natural world, and acting in a professional and compassionate manner at all times as a representative of the University of Washington
• Ensuring the health, safety and well‑being of students through site surveys and daily check‑ins with students.
• Maintaining clear communications with fellow staff, interns, students, and their families to achieve common goals and avoid potential conflicts
• Preparing, cleaning up and maintaining teaching supplies and supporting materials in a well‑organized and efficient manner
• Opportunities to teach in other Youth and Family education programs or work in other UWBG visitor services functions
• Other related duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school graduation or equivalent and two years of teaching experience, or equivalent education/experience.

Desirable

Qualifications:

• At least one year of experience working with early learners in a formal setting.
• Bachelor’s Degree or formal training in early childhood education, environmental education, botany, horticulture, biology, community engagement or related areas.
• Creativity, flexibility and understanding necessary for working with children, parents, and staff members.

Conditions of Employment:

• Ability to stand, stoop, bend, and sit for 15‑20 minutes at a time.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to work outdoors in all types of weather.
• Must be able to meet requirements for staff working in a licensed childcare in Washington.
• Current pediatric First Aid and CPR certification required.

Location:

University of Washington Botanic Gardens, Washington Park Arboretum – Seattle, WA

Benefits

This position is not benefits eligible.

Pay Range Minimum

$21.28 hourly

Pay Range Maximum

$26.31 hourly

Other Compensation

-

Benefits

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