We train educators

The Educator Development Program in Yosemite is designed to give educators from communities underrepresented in the field of environmental education the opportunity to further develop the skills, knowledge, and experience required to be highly effective environmental educators. Participants share their knowledge, gain new perspectives, and further develop their teaching strategies throughout the seven-week course, which incorporates observation, training, collaborative teaching, coaching, and evaluation. Instruction is based on our Core Educational Framework and is designed to foster a sense of place, interconnections, and stewardship. Up to five applicants will be selected to participate in the program, which runs from mid-June to early August. Participants who meet performance expectations will be offered full-time field science educator positions at NatureBridge for the 2012-2013 school year or as soon as positions become available.

We provide access

"This is a fantastic program that allows young educators from diverse backgrounds to break into field science education." —Cristina Murillo-Barrick, NatureBridge field science educator in Golden Gate

Educator Spotlight

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Participant details

Responsibilities

• Actively participate in all training sessions.
• Collaboratively plan and teach five-day outdoor education programs incorporating the NatureBridge Core Educational Framework.
• Present and co-lead small group evening programs including night walks, reflective activities, and campfires.
• Debrief teaching experiences and observations with collaborating teachers/supervisors and use the knowledge gained to enhance teaching techniques.
• Develop and maintain a safe learning environment for all participants at all times.
• Plan, prepare, and participate in a four-day backpacking trip with other participants and staff.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent and eligibility to work in the United States
• At least one year experience working with children of diverse ages and cultures in camps, schools, parks, and/or community programs
• Sound decision-making skills
• Effective communication, problem solving, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to hike three to seven miles a day carrying a 20-pound pack on varied terrain in all sorts of weather
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings and weekends

Preferred experience

• Ability to speak and/or teach in a second language
• Experience working with English Language Learners
• Experience working with urban youth

Compensation

• $68 per day
• Housing throughout the course of the program

Applications

• Email a cover letter, resume, contact information for three references, and a description of your life experiences that have inspired you to help connect youth to the natural world to: edp@naturebridge.org
• Alternatively, mail application materials to EDP C/O NatureBridge at Yosemite, PO Box 487, Yosemite, CA 95389.
• Faxes may be sent to 209-379-9510. Contact Kim Laizer with questions at 209-372-9302 ext 28.
• Application materials are due by April 1, 2012.