Environmental Teaching Intern – Tucson, AZ

Organization: Cooper Center for Environmental Learning

Job Title: Outdoor Environmental Teaching Intern

Location: Tucson, AZ

Hours and Compensation:

• Fall and Spring Semester positions available, beginning October 2012
• Time Commitment: up to 5 days/week; maximum 35 hrs/week
• Pay: Maximum $350/week

Application Deadline: Positions will be filled by late August, so send in ASAP

Posted On: July 10th, 2012

Description

Outdoor environmental teaching positions include working with students K-8 from Southern
Arizona public and private schools to encourage the hands-on learning and exploration of the Sonoran Desert. Training is provided based on the Cooper Center’s Mission Statement and the ideals of the Institute for Earth Education in order to “emphasize understanding of basic ecological processes, develop positive feelings for the natural world, and make personal lifestyle changes.”

Responsibilities

• Lead and assist several educational programs in outdoor settings (program training provided).
o Sunship III (Grades 6-8): This 3 day, 2 night program gives middle schoolers experiences that allow them to personally connect with the natural world and gain knowledge of how their life choices can impact it. This program is a coming of age celebration that offers each student a chance to make decisions and take responsibility for their choices and actions. Program components focus on energy flow, cycling of materials, interrelationships in nature, finding natural beauty, and the impacts of humans on the planet Earth. Program runs October – December.
o Earthkeepers (Grades 4-5): This 3 day, 2 night program gives upper elementary students the opportunity to gain knowledge about how the Earth functions and to experience the wonders of the desert, earning keys to unlock secrets along the way. Program components focus on energy flow, cycling of materials, interrelationships, and change over time. Program runs January through March.
o Day programs (Grades K-8): On these days, teaching duties will occur during the morning and early afternoon with the later afternoon left for other center responsibilities. Each grade level has differentiated curriculum. Examples include discovery and exploration of the Sonoran Desert, basic ecological concepts, understanding ecosystems, and plant and animal adaptations for survival. Programs run March through May.
• Assist in light facility maintenance (picking up trash, cleaning, etc.)
• Participate in program-related tasks including planning, setup, materials design and maintenance.
• Assist with field experience logistics including group arrivals and departures and managing students and adults during trips.

Qualifications

Required:

Enthusiasm, eagerness to help students learn about the natural world, strong communication skills, a positive attitude, ability to work hard as part of a team and independently, physical conditioning and love for working outdoors in a desert setting.

Preferred:

Degree in Environmental Studies, Education, or a related field; teaching experience; a flair for being theatrical.

How to Apply