24-25 Naturalist Educator

Do you want to make a difference in your community? Are you ready to make an impact? Become an AmeriCorps member in Reno today with Truckee Meadows Parks Foundation!

Summary: 

Naturalist Educators will primarily assist with the implementation and growth of TMPF’s Student Stewards education programs by leading in-class and outdoor hands-on science exploration for local students and families.

Mission:

The mission of Truckee Meadows Parks Foundation (TMPF) is to support the parks departments operating in Truckee Meadows, including Reno, Sparks, and Washoe County. We do this primarily by providing in-park programming and opportunities for citizen engagement. TMPF is an independent, nonprofit organization that began operating in 2013. Our current programs focus on improving community health and wellness and developing peoples’ appreciation for the natural and cultural history found in local parks. 

Position Description:

The Naturalist Educator, an AmeriCorps member, will be an essential member of the team for this young non-profit organization. This person will primarily implement and support the Student Stewards Program. The Student Stewards Program uses public parks within walking distance of under-served schools as learning laboratories. Naturalist Educators engage students in hands-on citizen science with the goal of improved academic engagement, better preparation for educational success, and increased interest in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) topics. This will include teaching a three-part class to underserved schools, developing and maintaining relationships with Washoe County schools administration and teachers, and developing and writing curriculum. This AmeriCorps member will also develop and implement other Student Stewards programs including the Junior Naturalists Program and the Student Stewards Camp (Fall Break, Spring Break, and Summer), a STEAM camp for economically disadvantaged students. 

Timeline for Service: September 2024 – August 2025

Member Schedule & Service Location:

Monday – Friday 8:30am – 5pm, some weekends and evenings for special programs and events.

Reno, NV

Primary Responsibilities:

• Facilitate the Student Stewards Program;
• Help develop and form connections between students and the natural world;
• Inspire students to become stewards of the environment;
• Teach classroom introduction and conclusion lessons on STEAM  (science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics) topics;
• Lead outdoor field trips and programs;
• Develop and maintain partnerships with school administrators and teachers;
• Write new and enhance current STEAM curriculum using Common Core and Next Generation Science Standards;
• Facilitate TMPF’s Junior Naturalist Program, a free program that introduces families with children of all ages to science and natural history in featured local parks;
• Create, develop, and implement STEAM and recreational camp programming for the Student Stewards Summer Camp and school break camps;

Secondary Responsibilities: 

• Support education and programming at the Rosewood Nature Study Area;
• Facilitate other interpretive programs such as Truckee Meadows Trails Challenge and Discover Your Parks walks;
• Community outreach for the Student Stewards Program;
• Create new adult education programs and events.

Qualifications:

• Passionate commitment to TMPF’s mission and vision;
• Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment;
• Exceptional writing skills;
• Strong communication skills;
• Strong organizational skills;
• High degree of initiative and spirit of service;
• Experience working with students, teachers, and volunteers;
• Preferred: Bachelor’s degree in education, science, or a related field;
• Preferred: strong understanding of education standards and experience in curriculum development;
• Preferred: experience teaching in formal or informal settings;
• Preferred: experience working at or managing summer camp programs;
• Preferred: Reading, writing, and speaking competency in Spanish language.

AmeriCorps Eligibility Requirements:

• Be at least 17 years of age at the commencement of service; or be an out-of-school youth 16 years of age at the commencement of service participating in a program described in §2522.110(b)(3) or (g);
• Have a high school diploma or its equivalent; OR not have dropped out of elementary or secondary school to enroll as an AmeriCorps participant and must agree to obtain a high school diploma or its equivalent prior to using the education award; OR obtain a waiver from the Corporation of the requirements in paragraphs (a)(2)(i) and (a)(2)(ii) of this section based on an independent evaluation secured by the program demonstrating that the individual is not capable of obtaining a high school diploma or its equivalent; or be enrolled in an institution of higher education on an ability to benefit basis and be considered eligible for funds under section 484 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1091);
• Be a citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States.
• Successfully pass the National Service Criminal History Check (NSCHC) and National Sex Offender Program Registry check;

Term of Service & Time Requirements:

Member’s term of service begins September 2024 and will be completed by August 2025. This is a full-time AmeriCorps member position. Members must complete 1720 hours of service.

Member Benefits:

In return for their service, AmeriCorps members receive a modest living allowance of $25,000 and will receive a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award of $7,395 upon successful completion of service. Members also qualify for healthcare, childcare assistance, and student loan forbearance and interest payments on qualifying loans.  

Member Supervisor:

Devin Sandoval de Genovese

devi@tmparksfoundation.org

(775) 360-6068

To Apply:

Send a cover letter and resume to Devin Sandoval de Genovese, devin@tmparksfoundation.org. 

Visit the TMPF website, www.tmparksfoundation.org or email Devin for more information.