Wholesome Ecology, Farm & Science Teacher / Gardener

Summary

Job Description:

Our WG Ecology, Farm & Garden Science Teacher / Gardener will focus on integrating science/growing/gardening concepts through the hands-on creation and management of smaller scale farm and garden ecosystem, supporting and including students in elementary and middle grades.

Position Summary:

The Ecology, Farm & Garden Science Mentor is responsible for supporting the school's farm and garden and connecting these spaces as a living laboratory for elementary and middle school students. Our team member will facilitate student learning through project-based activities focused on building and managing ecosystems and developing sustainable solutions within the farm and garden setting. This is a blended position, moving between working with children and farming.

Duties

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Instruction:
• Research, and implement engaging, project-based lessons that utilize the farm and garden to teach concepts in ecology, biology, earth science, and environmental science.
• Develop curriculum aligned with relevant science standards and tailored to the needs of elementary and middle school students.
• Incorporate hands-on activities such as building different ecosystems, plant care, harvesting, composting, and implementing sustainable farming and gardening practices.
• Utilize instructional strategies that cater to diverse learning styles and abilities.
• Farm and Garden Management:
• Collaborate on the maintenance of the school's farm and garden, ensuring a safe and productive learning environment.
• Plan and manage planting schedules, irrigation, pest control, and soil health.
• Coordinate volunteer involvement and student participation in farm and garden tasks.
• Integrate lessons on sustainable and regenerative farming practices.
• Ecosystem Building and Solutions:
• Lead students in designing, building, and maintaining various ecosystems within the farm and garden, such as pollinator gardens, composting systems, or small wetland areas.
• Guide students in identifying and implementing solutions to real-world challenges related to farm and garden sustainability, such as water conservation, soil erosion, or pest management.
• Encourage students to research, experiment, and analyze the effectiveness of different solutions.
• Assessment and Communication:
• Assess student learning through a variety of methods, including observation, project-based assessments, presentations, and written reflections.
• Communicate regularly with students, colleagues, and parents about student progress and program activities.
• Collaboration and Professional Growth:
• Collaborate with classroom teachers and E.D./Directors, to integrate ecology, farm & garden activities into other subjects.
• Stay updated on best practices in garden-based learning, environmental education, nature learning, and sustainable agriculture.
• Participate in professional development opportunities relevant to the role.

Requirements

Qualifications:

• Associates' degree (or related experience) in science, education, environmental studies, or a related field.
• A love for children, their learning and co-creation of ecosystems.
• Experience in garden-based education or working in an agricultural setting.
• Knowledge of elementary and middle school science/ecology/biology curriculum and child development.
• Ability to work effectively with students of diverse backgrounds and learning needs.
• Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
• Passion for environmental stewardship and sustainable practices.
• Compassion for animals (we have bees, horses, a schoolhouse dog, and Papa Duck).

Working Conditions:

• This position involves a combination of indoor and outdoor work, with exposure to various weather conditions (in Austin, Texas).
• The teacher is required to lift and carry moderately heavy items, such as tools and garden materials, soil bags, etc.
• The position may involve prolonged periods of standing, bending, and other physical activities.
• Other duties as assigned.

Nice To Haves

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a field related to growing and farming.
• Experience in developing and implementing project-based learning initiatives.
• Familiarity with homestead farming or gardening techniques. An ability to co-create with a strong core team for the vision to host edible gardens/a farm and to implementing these with student involvement.
• Knowledge of local ecosystems and agricultural practices.

Benefits

Dependent Credit (Free stipend).
Stipend for Wholesome Health Care.
Massage/Monthly via a Partner Organization.
Full food (2 snacks/full lunches, gluten-free, vegan/vegetarian base, fully local and organic).
Great work environment and team.
Training opportunities annually via partner organizations.

Salary: $40,000/annually as a starting salary (depending on experience and education/skill set). For the right person, we will co-create.