The Education Specialist is responsible for on-site teaching of K-8 students in the Farm-to-Kids Texas enrichment after-school program at Elgin ISD. The purpose of Farm-to-Kids Texas is to engage EISD K-8 students with local food to promote knowledge and skills that lead to healthy local food consumption. This position is part-time and seasonal, requires regular on-site work in Elgin, Texas, limited remote work, and some travel in central Texas.

Farm-to-Kids Texas Activities and Responsibilities

• Teach K-8 Farm-to-Kids Texas curriculum for after school programming at 5 Elgin ISD schools [50m lessons for 20-30 students during after-school hours: 3-6pm M-F for 20 weeks during the school year].
• Deliver cooking and enrichment activities and that foster student engagement with local food.
• Create a safe, inclusive classroom environment for all students.
• With program coordinator, secure and prepare supplies and materials necessary for a smooth, engaging student experience.
• Evaluate student satisfaction and modify curriculum and lessons accordingly.
• Prepare attendance reports.
• Present and store materials in a well-organized format to ensure it is easily reusable by others.
• Assist in planning and chaperoning of 3-5 field trips to Elgin Farmers Market throughout the school year during regular class time. 
• Report any classroom issues to Program Coordinator and other necessary program staff
• Work cooperatively with Elgin ISD and TCLF staff to modify and improve curricula and classroom experience 
• Participate in TCLF staff meetings and meetings with Elgin ISD 2-4 times yearly
• Use effective verbal communication to present information accurately and clearly.
• Be a positive role model for students and customers, representing the missions of both Elgin ISD and TCLF in all work settings.
• Follow all policies and procedures of Texas Center for Local Food and Elgin ISD.
• Other related and reasonable responsibilities as assigned.

Skills, knowledge, and talents required:

• At least 1 year experience with teaching, youth programming, or K-8 curriculum development. This may include a broad range of experiences such as: classroom teaching, adult education, on-farm education, university/community college teaching, summer camp counselor, home schooling, corporate education development, group facilitation, customer service, or on-line teaching.
• At least 1 year experience with farming, agriculture, and/or local food.
• Comfortable adapting recipes and cooking with youth in a variety of settings; food-safety minded and a willingness to learn. 
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Well-organized and able to work independently and collaboratively to the delight of customers
• Bachelor’s degree in any field or equivalent work experience. 
• This position requires use of a personal vehicle to transport necessary items for work and will be reimbursed for mileage at the federal rate.
• Ability to pass background checks issued by the school district.

Skills and knowledge preferred:

• Speak and write fluent Spanish
• Excellent active listening skills
• At least 2 years experience with food, farming, agriculture or related field
• At least 1 year personal work to dismantle white supremacy 

Approximate Schedule: 

• 20 hours/week, 20 weeks/year
• Mon-Thursday 2:30-6pm, Friday 3-5pm 
• Up to 3 Saturday mornings per school year
• Seasonal: September-October 2023 and February-May 2024

Work location: Elgin, Texas and remote

Pay range: $25-$30/hour commensurate with experience and skills

Position open until filled.