Position Title: Garden Art and Science Youth Educator

Reports to: Youth Work Coordinator

Status: Seasonal, Non-exempt, 12 weeks, May - August

Hours:  May 18- June 17, 10 hours a week flexible hours; oJune 20^th – August 3, hours shift to 9 per week, specifically Monday (1-4pm), Tuesday (10am-1pm) and Wednesday (1-4pm).

Position Summary:  In coordination with the summer youth program to develop, plan and implement a curriculum that teaches youth about gardening and maintains a community youth garden. Also, there is an opportunity to develop an environmental art piece, such as murals, sculpture, earth art, etc. which will be featured near the garden.  The focus is on direct service with youth program participants, teaching daily garden lessons 3 times daily with children grades 1-6.

Responsibilities: Is responsible for, but not limited to the following functions:

• Develop and implement weekly academic lessons utilizing youth garden as an educational tool, in coordination with Program Coordinator to maintain grade level standards in reading and math.

• Work collaboratively with Program’s Coordinators in the garden maintenance and planting schedule, as well as the development of environmental art pieces representing the community’s connection to the garden.

• Coordinates the garden art program as an integral part of ESNS’ Youth Programs, while branching out to include intergenerational programming with the Friendship Adult Day Program, a program of East Side Neighborhood Services focusing on older adult care.

• Plan and facilitate at least three intergenerational events throughout the summer working with the youth and senior adults in the Adult Day Program.
• Develops and maintains schedule of necessary garden maintenance tasks with assistance of Program Coordinators and other summer staff.
  • Purchases materials in coordination with Program Coordinators and project budget.
  • Assists in program evaluation involving youth, parent, community members, and staff.
  • Other responsibilities as assigned by Program Coordinator.

• Maintain constructive professional relationships with community members, youth program participants and staff.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of one year post-secondary education in relevant field.
• Experience in environmental science and art education.
• Experience and interest in community gardening, gardening processes, curriculum development, environmental art creation, and intergenerational relationships.
• Experience and interest in working with youth and/or families in community setting.
• Experience and interest in developing creative and educational youth activities.

  Compensation: $12.00  per hour

  Send Resume to: East Side Neighborhood Services, 1700 Second St NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413; humanresources@esns.org; www.esns.org Closing date 4/25/2011

  AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY – AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER