Youth Education Manager

Position Description

The Youth Education Manager will direct programmatic aspects of Truckee Meadows Parks Foundation’s Student Stewards Program, with a focus on expansion and new program development. This position will also be responsible for all education programming at the newly opened Rosewood Nature Study Area. 

This person will supervise the education team in the creation and implementation of citizen science based curriculum, as well as build and maintain a professional relationship with the Washoe County School District and other partner organizations. This position will also direct the continued expansion of the Student Stewards Program at Truckee Meadows Parks Foundation, including aiding in curriculum development for K-12 classes; teacher training workshops; family, youth, and community programming at the Nature Study Area; and     

TMPF works to support and improve parks and open spaces in the greater Reno-Sparks metropolitan area. We do this primarily by providing in-park programming, fundraising, 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, science education, and developing appreciation for the natural and cultural history found in local parks.

The Student Stewards Program is an in-park, STEM-based (science, technology, engineering, math) education program that brings K-12 students to their local green spaces to conduct citizen science for real research projects. This standards-based curriculum gets kids excited about the natural world and their local neighborhood parks. It opens their eyes to the value and opportunities that exist in STEM fields and helps prepare them for success in post-secondary education and careers in science.

Types of education programs directed by this position include K-12 SPP classes, adult education workshops, tours, eLearning content, and family programs.

Timeline: September start with annual contract review

Responsibilities:

• Create and articulate a detailed vision for education programs and projects consistent with TMPF’s mission, vision, and goals; and manage new and ongoing environmental education programs and projects.
• Apply problem solving and innovation to develop unique approaches to and enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of TMPF’s education programing.
• Manage TMPF’s Student Stewards Program, including:
• Develop and maintain relationships with Washoe County School District;
• Assist with writing grants and raising funds needed to support environmental education and community science programs
• Grant Reporting and Tracking;
• Align modules with NGSS;
• Oversight of Student Stewards Program Scheduling;

• Expand and Develop New Programs, including:
• New community science programs utilizing the Rosewood Lakes Nature Study Area;
• Expansion of current community science programs to reach a broader age range
• Direct expansion of Nature Center educational programs, displays, materials, and exhibits

Supervisory

• Hire, train, supervise, evaluate, and mentor up to 14 AmeriCorps members annually (AmeriCorps term-length varies)
• Hire, train, supervise, evaluate, and mentor future Coordinator-level, permanent staff positions that may develop with future TMPF growth (including future Camper Manager)
• Hire, train, and supervise environmental education volunteers
• Facilitating Education at Rosewood Nature Study Area, including:
• Designing and implementing educational exhibits in the Nature Center;
• Work with the rosewood education team to host field trips, service learning trips, and private groups.

Support the presentation and facilitation of educational content and education programming at Support the build out of the Education and Volunteer programs. Hire, train, coach and manage direct reports (Education Program Coordinator, Volunteer & Internship Program Coordinator, AmeriCorps Education & Outreach Specialist, 3-4 event presenters/contractors); supervise and conduct performance reviews; and build the skills and abilities of staff to take on progressive levels of program responsibility.

• Manage TMPF’s AmeriCorps members, including:
• Recruitment of AmeriCorps members;
• Maintain member files;
• Providing supervision to AmeriCorps members;
• Member evaluations;
• Coordinate and lead trainings and professional developments.
• Maintain and develop professional partner relationships, including:
• Partner Organizations;
• Current and potential funders of the Student Stewards Program;
• K-12 public schools;
• Volunteer recruitment, training, and management for the Student Stewards Program;
• Lead on-site programming for children and adults in order to train AmeriCorps members, including:
• Camp programs;
• Walks;
• School field trips;
• Weekend or evening workshops;
• Special events throughout the year.
• Oversight of SSP Marketing;
• Other Duties Assigned.

Qualifications:

• Passionate commitment to TMPF’s mission and vision;
• Bachelor’s degree in science, education, business, nonprofit management, or related field;
• Exceptional writing and communication skills;
• Exceptional organizational skills;
• Experience managing data collection and reporting;
• Must pass a background check;
• Preferred: Experience managing budgets;
• Preferred: 1+ years in a management position;
• Preferred: Experience with AmeriCorps programs.

Compensation: $45,000 annually, paid bi-weekly

Benefits: 120 hours personal leave per calendar year, accruable up to 120 hours, 80 hours sick leave per calendar year, accruable up to 120 hours. Up to $400 per month for health coverage reimbursement (proof of health insurance required).

Work Environment Description and Inclusive Position Description Statement:

Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. The above functions may be completed with or without reasonable accommodations. No persons involved with the program will discriminate based on race, religion, creed, color, national origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, political affiliation or disability. This position has recurring access to vulnerable populations.