MSTFP is looking to hire an educator in Montezuma County to apply to become a garden educator liaison between MSTFP and Montezuma County.
Job Description:
The Garden Educator Liaison is a contracted position that offers critical support to teachers to ensure that a school can maximize the educational potential of the school garden. The Liaison works alongside Montezuma School to Farm Project and acts as a resource for teachers as they plan their own cross-curricular lessons in the outdoor classroom, and models skills that teachers need to feel comfortable using the garden. The Liaison will collaborate with other K-8th grade teachers across Montezuma County to align, create and teach garden lessons that connect to grade-level standards. The Liaison will also support professional development training for teachers.
The Educator:
• Develops a complete and comprehensive scope and sequence (Year at a Glance) for the school they are currently working in.
• Identifies areas of strength and weakness to pinpoint ideas for needed garden lessons which will result in improved teaching and learning practices.
• Works closely with MSTFP and classroom teachers to develop lessons that support classroom teaching in a range of curriculum areas (science, social studies, mathematics, language arts, etc.) across grade levels.
• Builds involvement in and commitment to the school garden within the school community, including teachers, administrators, students, parents and community volunteers.
• Builds capacity within the school by leading professional development and working with teachers who seek additional support.
Job Responsibilities:
• Work with MSTFP staff for 3-5 days during summer 2021. In addition, the ideal candidate attends meetings/training throughout the school year to ensure best practices and development of the program.
• Open-minded and willingness to look at the benefits of teaching in a school garden setting.
• Align existing MSTFP garden curriculum and create new curriculum to enhance current teaching practices within each school for both the teachers and the AmeriCorps members, who teach monthly garden lessons.
• Able to take the lead on development of individual learning goals, project goals, measurable outcomes, timelines and reporting on all activities and extent of student and teacher participation.
• Be willing to travel out of state during the summer months for training conference opportunities.
Desired Skills and Experience:
• A licensed teacher currently teaching at one of the following schools: Mancos Elementary, Dolores Elementary, Kemper Elementary, Mesa Elementary, Manaugh Elementary, Lewis-Arriola Elementary, Kiva Montessori School.
• Knowledge of and passion for such topics including urban gardening, botany, environmental science, health and nutrition, food systems, food access and sustainability.
• At least 3-5 years teaching experience.
• Ideal candidates seek to serve in this capacity for three consecutive years.
•A cooperative manner and the ability to serve as part of a diverse team.
• Strong oral and written communication skills, including public speaking skills.
• Ability to work independently and be flexible.
• Computer skills and project management skills.
Compensation:
• The contracted position will range from $2500-$3500 per year based on number of participants. Any travel out of state will be paid for by MSTFP. Travel is expected to begin in 2022.
Next Steps:
If you are interested in applying for one of the open positions, please complete the application, found below, before February 28, 2021. Also, you MUST email a resume to [email protected].
