Position Summary:

The Middle School Gardening instructor is responsible for leading gardening skills and activities with youth and building/maintaining high environmental principles and values. They are responsible for helping youth beautify and maintain the garden while developing gardening techniques and knowledge. The instructor will provide hands-on opportunities for youth to participate in gardening lessons and will also work on developing inclusive and creative lessons to connect students with nature. A gardening instructor's job is to instill a passion for gardening and environmental conservation in the next generation.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Curriculum Development:
· Design engaging and age-appropriate gardening lessons and activities for middle school students (ages 11-14).
· Integrate science, math, and environmental concepts into gardening lessons to enhance the educational experience when possible.
2. Instruction and Demonstration:
· Lead interactive gardening sessions, providing step-by-step instructions and demonstrations.
· Foster a positive and inclusive learning environment that encourages curiosity and creativity.
3. Garden Maintenance:
· Oversee the care and maintenance of the afterschool program's garden.
· Instruct students in proper gardening techniques, including planting, weeding, watering, and harvesting.
4. Supervision and Safety:
· Ensure the safety and well-being of students during gardening activities.
· Supervise students to maintain a positive and respectful environment.
5. Communication:
· Communicate effectively with students, parents, and Program Director regarding gardening activities and events.
· Provide regular updates on students' progress and accomplishments.
6. Collaboration:
· Collaborate with other afterschool program staff to integrate gardening activities with other educational components. For example, inviting the cooking class to harvest fresh herbs from the garden.
· Coordinate special projects or events related to gardening
Other:
• Be punctual.
• Implement company culture, values, and policies.
• Strong organizational skills. Maintain an organized schedule for students/parents.
• Excellent verbal communication skills. Ability to build rapport with all employees, parents, and students.
• Instructor will work individually and in group settings to develop skills, respect, and sportsmanship among all student participants.
• Instructor will be responsible for the recruitment of new student participants.
• Instructor will be required to uphold all program rules and conduct.
• Handle and prepare incident reports when needed.
• Report all issues to the appropriate staff.
• Have fun and always keep a positive attitude.
• Always maintain a professional attitude.
• Request and pick up supplies when needed.

Organizational Relationships

Under the supervision and direction of the Program Director.

Qualifications:

• Education/Knowledge: Preferred A.A. degree in Agriculture or a related field or currently enrolled in community college. Previous experience in gardening instruction or environmental education. Knowledge of basic gardening principles, plant biology, and/or environmental science. Strong interest in youth development.
• Experience: At least one to two years experience in a non-profit youth organization providing gardening instruction and activities. One to two years’ experience working with youth in a non-profit educational agency or school. (Ages 10-14).
• Skills and Abilities: Must be able to discipline, teach, and encourage youth utilizing positive reinforcement. Lead large groups of students. Be active with youth supervision. Patience, enthusiasm, and a passion for inspiring a love of nature in young learners. MS Word, MS Excel, internet, e-mail.
• Able to maintain professional standards under pressure and time-bound projects. Awareness of team-building activities to nurture a fun/safe learning environment is a plus.

• Required prerequisites before working: Must have current TB test results (every 4 years), CPR/First Aid certification (every 2 years), and Live Scan federal and state fingerprinting (1 time only).

• Physical Requirements: Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer and office equipment; sitting or standing for extended periods; walking to various sites at the assigned location; kneeling and bending, pushing and pulling and reaching to retrieve items; lifting and carrying objects weighing up to 15 pounds; and hearing and speaking to exchange information in person and on the phone.